Title of Invention

ANTI-CANCER AND ANTI-INFECTIOUS DISEASE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR USING SAME

Abstract A composition comprising a non-pathogenic, insect-specific virus and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein said non-pathogenic, insect-specific virus is inactivated using two or more methods selected from the group consisting of genetic inactivation, chemical inactivation, photochemical inactivation,UV-light inactivation, heat inactivation, or radiological inactivation, said composition further comprising at least one peripheral blood mononuclear cell.
Full Text FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to cancer therapy. More particularly,
the present invention relates to the use of non-pathogenic viruses as effective anti-
cancer agents.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Table of Abbreviations
[0002]A549 - human lung epithelial tumor cell line
AcNPV - Autogmpha california nucleopolyhedrosis virus
BMDC - bone marrow-derived dendritic cells
BV422 - recombinant baculovirus expressing CCL21
BV762 - recombinant baculovirus expressing Raf
CCL21 - C-C motif Ligand 21 Chemokine; Secondary Lymphoid-
Tissue Chemokine
CD86 - marker for dendritic cell maturation
CR - complete response
CTL - cytotoxic T lysis
DC - dendritic cell
FACS - fluorescence activated cell sorting
GM-CSF - Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor
GV - granulosis virus
HIV - human immunodeficiency virus
i.t. - intratumorally
mCCL21 - mouse CCL21
MHC - major histocompatibility complex
MHCII - MHC class II
MLA-DR - MHC class I antigen
MOI - multiplicity of infection
NPV - nucleapolyhedrosis virus
PBMCs - peripheral blood mononuclear cells
PFU - plaque-forming unit
qd - Quaque Die (given daily)
rhCCL21 - recomblnant human CCL21
s.c. - subcutaneously
Sf (Sf9) - Spodoptera frugiperda
Tn (Tn5) - Trichoplusia nl
UV - ultraviolet
VLP - virus-like particle
Background
[0003] Modulation of immune response has become an important anti-cancer
strategy. A significant effort in the design of cancer vaccines and immunotherapies
has focused on the identification of antigens that are selectively present in tumor
cells. Unique tumor immunogenicity has permitted induction of tumor-specific
immune responses using vaccines that include tumor-specific antigens, or genes
expressing tumor-specific antigens. Vaccination approaches have also included
adoptive cellular methods, whereby antigen-presenting cells are modified to present
tumor-associated antigens. Additional immunological strategies for cancer treatment
include administration of cytokines and chemokines, which have therapeutic
potential as adjuvants or treatments in anti-cancer therapies based on their ability to
expand and recruit immune effector cells. See e.g., Homey et al. (2002) Nat Rev
Immunol 2:175-84; Parmiani et al. (2002) J Natl Cancer Inst 94:805-18; Bronte
(2001) Curr Gone Ther 1:53-100; and Fehniger et al. (2002) Cytokine Growth Factor
Rev 13:169-83.
[0004] Notwithstanding the above-noted advances, the success of immunological
approaches has been limited by: (1) tumor-specific antigenicity, such that therapies
are limited to particular cancer types; (2) poor antigen presentation by tumor cells;
and (3) and the ability of tumor cells to produce immune inhibitory factors to thereby
escape immune surveillance. Thus, there exists a long-felt and continuing need in
the art for effective and broadly applicable cancer therapies. To meet this need, the
present invention provides novel immunostimulatory methods for cancer treatment
and prevention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention provides methods of inducing an immune response in
an animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a composition
comprising an inactive non-pathogenic virus effective to induce an immune response
in the animal.
[0006]The present invention further provides methods of causing cell death in a cell
comprising administering a composition comprising an amount of a non-pathogenic
virus to the cell effective to cause cell death in the cell.
[0007] Further, the present invention provides methods of eliciting a CTL response in
an animal comprising administering a composition comprising an amount of a non-
pathogenic virus to the animal effective to elicit a CTL response in the animal,
wherein the non-pathogenic virus is an insect-specific virus.
[0008]The present invention provides methods of inhibiting tumor growth in an
animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a composition
comprising a non-pathogenic insect-specific virus effective to inhibit tumor growth in
the animal.
[0009]The present invention also provides methods of effecting cancer remission in
an animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a composition
comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to effect cancer remission.
[0010]The present invention further provides methods of inhibiting cancer
metastasis in an animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a
composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to inhibit cancer metastasis
in the animal.

[0011] The present invention provides methods of imparting resistance to cancer re-

challenge in an animal comprising administering a composition comprising a non-
pathogenic virus to the animal.
[0012] Further, the present invention provides methods of inhibiting a non-neoplastic
proliferative disorder in an animal comprising administering a composition
comprising a non-pathogenic virus to the animal.
[0013] The present invention also provides methods of inhibiting hyperplasia or
metaplasia in an animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a
composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to inhibit hyperplasia in the
animal.
[0014]The present invention provides methods of inhibiting one or more symptoms
of cancer in an individual in need thereof comprising administering to the individual
an amount of a composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to inhibit
one or more symptoms of cancer in the individual.
[0015] Further, the present invention provides methods of protecting an animal from
an infectious disease comprising administering to the animal an amount of a
composition comprising an inactive non-pathogenic virus effective to protect the
animal from an infectious disease.
[0016]The present invention also provides methods of inhibiting an infectious
disease in an animal comprising administering to the animal an amount of a
composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to inhibit the infectious
disease in the animal.
[0017] The present invention provides methods of causing ceil death in a population
of cells comprising contacting a composition comprising an amount of a non-
pathogenic virus to a portion of the population of cells effective to cause cell death in
the population of cells.
[0018]The present invention provides methods of treating a disease in a subject in
need thereof comprising inactivating a non-pathogenic virus, wherein the
nonpathogenic virus is inactivated by adding trioxalen to the non-pathogenic virus at
a concentration between about 5-10 mg/ml and illuminating the non-pathogenic virus
with UV at about 365 nm and about 6W for about 15 minutes, formulating the
inactivated non-pathogenic virus into a pharmaceutical composition; and
administering the pharmaceutical composition to the subject
[0019] The present invention also provides methods of predicting in vivo anti-tumor
activity of a compound comprising contacting the compound with tumor cells and
peripheral blood mononuclear cells; and measuring cell death of the tumor cells.
Compounds that cause cell death of contacted tumor cells are predicted to be active
in vivo.
[0020] Further, the present invention provides methods of preventing cancer in an
individual comprising administering to the individual an amount of a composition
comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to prevent cancer in the individual.
[0021]Also, the present invention provides compositions comprising a non-
pathogenic virus and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
[0022]The present invention further provides compositions comprising a non-
pathogenic virus inactivated by at least two different methods.
[0023]The present invention also provides compositions comprising a non-
pathogenic virus, the non-pathogenic virus Inactivated using two or more methods
selected from the group consisting of genetic inactivation, chemical inactivation,
photochemical inactivation, UV-light inactivation, heat inactivation, or radiological
inactivation, and at least one PBMC
[0024]The present invention provides processes for preparing an anti-cancer or anti-
infectious disease composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus. The processes
comprise exposing the virus to a first inactivator effective to inactivate an active
virus, exposing the virus to a second inactivator effective to inactivate an active virus,
combining the virus with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or
excipients, and confirming inactivity of the virus in an in vitro assay.
[0025] The present invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions
comprising an inactivated non-pathogenic virus and at least one antigen, wherein the
antigen is distinct from the inactivated non-pathogenic virus, and at least one
adjuvant.
[0026] Further, the present invention provides immunostimulating compositions
comprising an adjuvant composition. The adjuvant composition comprises an
inactivated non-pathogenic virus, at least one antigen. The antigen is distinct from
the adjuvant composition, and further the immunostimulating composition is capable
of increasing the immune response to the antigen.
[0027]The methods disclosed herein are directed to the treatment of human
subjects, however, they can be used for the treatment of any mammal in need
thereof. In some embodiments, cancers and non-neopiastic disorders that can be
treated or prevented include, but are not limited to, those of the lung, breast, and
skin. In some embodiments infectious diseases that can be treated or prevented
include viral infections.
[0028]The present Invention further provides that a non-pathogenic virus used in
accordance with the anti-cancer methods disclosed herein can comprise a live virus,
an inactivated virus, a viral particle, a virosome, a Viral Like Particle, a viral occlusion
body, or a viral component In some embodiments, viral components include, for
example, peptide, proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates, and combinations
thereof. In some embodiments, the viral component is gp64.
[0029] In some embodiments, the non-pathogenic virus is an insect-specific virus. In
some embodiments, the insect-specific virus is a virus of the family of Baculoviridae.
For example, a non-pathogenic virus of the invention can comprise a
nudeopolyhedrosis virus or a granulosis virus. In some embodiments a non-
pathogenic virus is Autographs callfomlca nuclepolyhedrosis virus.
[0030] In some embodiments, for the treatment of tumors, a non-pathogenic virus
and optionally an antigen and/or adjuvant are administered to a mammalian subject
intratumorally and/or peritumorally. In some embodiments, for the treatment of non-
neoplastic proliferative disorders, a non-pathogenic virus and optionally an antigen
and/or adjuvant are administered to a mammalian subject intraJesionally and/or
perilesionally. A therapeutic regimen can include multiple administrations of a non-
pathogenic virus, optionally in combination with other anti-cancer therapies.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] Figure 1 depicts a line graph, which shows that bacuiovirus-expressed CCL21
inhibits tumor growth and Induces complete tumor remission in a 3LL mouse mode!
of lung cancer. As described in Example 2, CCL21 administration included 6
intratumoral injections of CCL21 at the concentrations indicated. Increasing the
dose per injection increased tumor inhibition and the frequency of complete
responses. One way ANOVA analysis was performed using data collected on day
24. Albumin compared with treated groups, P 6 mg/Alb mCCL21, P0.05.
mCCL21, mouse CCL21; rhCCL21, recombinant human CCL21; B Gold,
recombinant mouse CCL21 expressed from baculovirus, which was used as a
reference lot ("Gold Standard"); Alb, albumin; qd, Quaque Die (given daily), CR,
complete response.
[0032] Figure 2 depicts a line graph, which depicts inhibition of tumor growth in a 4T1
mouse model of breast cancer following administration of baculovirus-expressed
CCL21, as described in Example 3. rhCCL21, reoombinant human CCL21; qd,
Quaque Die (given daily).
[0033] Figure 3 depicts a bar graph, which depicts inhibition of spontaneous 4T1 lung
metastasis following administration of baculovirus-expressed CCL21, as described in
Example 6. Solid bars, animals that did not undergo surgical resection of the tumor;
hatched bars, animals in which tumors were surgically resected (Surg) 1 day after
the last dose of CCL21.
[0034] Figure 4 depicts a line graph, which shows that administration of baculovirus-
expressed CCL21 imparts resistance to tumor re-challenge, as described in Example
5. Briefly, 4T1 tumors were established in Balb/c mice, and a subset of host mice
were treated via intratumoral administration of baculovirus-expressed CCL21. One
day after the last dose of CCL21, tumors were surgically resected. One day after
tumor resection, mice were re-challenged with s.c. injection of 4T1 cells at a site
contralateral to the original tumor. Naifve, mice that had not previously hosted a
tumor and which did not receive CCL21 treatment; Alb + Surg + Re-chlg, mice that
had previously hosted a 4T1 tumor and that received albumin treatment; hCCL21 +
Surg + Re-chlg, mice that had previously hosted a 4T1 tumor and that received
CCL21 treatment In the Alb + Surg + Re-chlg group, 1 of 10 mice showed complete
resistance to tumor growth. In the hCCL21 + Surg + Re-chlg group, 6 of 10 mice
showed complete resistance to tumor growth.
[0035] Figures 5A-5B demonstrate baculovirus-induced resistance to tumor re-
challenge. In the 3LL tumor model, animals that have been successfully treated with
baculovirus-derived CCL21 are resistant to re-challenge with the same tumor for
prolonged periods. Figure 5A summarizes experiments with animals that had a
complete remission of tumors after treatment with baculovirus-derived mouse
recombinant CCL21 (see e.g., Figure 1), and were re-cha!lenged in the opposite
flank with the same tumor at 60, 70 and 80 days following the last dose of
baculovirus-derived CCL21. Animals were resistant to re-challenge for at least 70
days. Figure 5B summarizes experiments with animals that received an inoculation
30 days following completion of baculovirus CCL21 treatment and induction of
complete remission ("tumor boost"), and that were re-challenged in the opposite
flank with the same tumor at 80, 120, 160 and 200 days following the last dose of
baculovirus-derived CCL21. These results demonstrate that resistance to tumor re-
challenge can be extended to at least 200 days by using a tumor boost
[0036] Figure 6 depicts a line graph, which shows that CCL21 produced in yeast or
E. coli does not result in tumor remission in a 3LL tumor model of lung cancer.
hCCL21-B (HBPG1), recombinant human CCL21 expressed in baculovirus, lot#
HBPG1; hCCL21-B ½ (HBPG1), recombinant human CCL21 expressed in
baculovirus, Iot# HBPG1, diluted to one-half of the concentration of hCCL21
(HBPG1); hCCL21-B cone. (HBPG1), recombinant human CCL21 expressed in
baculovirus, lot# HBPG1 derived from a concentrated (10 mg/ml) solution; hCCL21-
Y (HYPG4), recombinant human CCL21 expressed in yeast, lot# HYPG4; hCCL21-E
(HEDS4), recombinant human CCL21 expressed in E.coli, lot# HEDS4; qd, Quaque
Die (given daily). Inhibition of tumor growth in mice treated with aJbumin when
compared to mice treated with hCCL2i-B or with hCCL21-B new, P of tumor growth in mice treated with hCCL21-B cone, or with hCCL21-B 14, P [0037] Figure 7 depicts a line graph, which shows in vitro chemotaxis activity of
baculovirus-expressed-CCI_21 preparations that are inactive in vivo. The
chemotaxis assay can be performed essentially as described in PCT International
Publication No. WO .00/38706. In vivo activity was assessed as described in
Examples 2-6. HBDS2,p, recombinant human CCL21 derived from baculovirus, lot#
HBDS2.p; MBDS2.C, recombinant mouse CCL21 derived from baculovirus, lot#
MBDS2.C; HBPG1, recombinant human CCL21 derived from baculovirus, Iot#
HBPG1; HBPG1 + HBDS2.vp, HBPG1 mixed with an equimolar ratio of HBD62 that
had been treated with vinyl pyridine; HYPG4, recombinant human CCL21 derived
from yeast, lot# HYPG4; HEDS4, recombinant human CCL21 derived from E. coll,
lot# HEDS4.
[0038] Figure 8 depicts a Western blot that was prepared using the indicated
samples and then probed with an anti-gp64 antibody. Lane 1, purified baculovirus;
Lane 2, conditioned media from uninfected Tn5 cell culture; Lane 3, conditioned
media from Tn5 cells infected with wild type baculovirus; Lane 4, conditioned media
from Tn5 cell culture infected with BV422 encoding recombinant human CCL21;
Lane 5, uninfected Tn5 cell pellet Lane 6, cell pellet from Tn5 culture infected with
wild type bacutovinjs; Lane 7, cell pellet from TnS culture infected with BV422; Lane
8, human recombinant CCL21 derived from baculovirus, lot# HBPG1, filtrate after
removing contaminants >50 kDa; Lane 9, retentate from sample in Lane 8 containing
contaminants >50 kDa (5 mg of protein); Lane 10, retentate from sample in Lane 8
containing contaminants >50 kDa (10 ug of protein); Lane 11, 5 mg of unfiltered
recombinant human baculovirus-derived CCL21, lot# HBPG1; Lane 12, 5 mg of
unfiltered recombinant human baculovirus-deiived CCL21, lot# HBDS4; Lane 13, 5
ug of unfiltered recombinant human baculovirus-derived CCL21, Iot# HBMC1; Lane
14,5 mg of unfiltered recombinant human baculovirus-derived CCL21, lot# HBDS1.
[0039] Figure 9 depicts a line graph, which shows that the anti-tumor activity of
baculovirus-expressed CCL21 is removed by filtering to remove high molecular
weight contaminants from the preparation. Purified baculovirus, a contaminant of the
CCL21 preparations (Figure 8), inhibits tumor growth as effectively as baculovirus-
expressed CCL21 preparations.
[0040] Figure 10A depicts a line graph that shows PBMC-mediated toxicity of tumor
cells in vitro when exposed to the indicated compositions, as described in Example
8. The cell pellet samples induced a greater cytotoxic response than the
supernatant samples. Cells infected with either CCL21-expressing baculovirus or
the control baculovjrus. BV762, showed significant cytotoxicity. GAM, growth assay
media that has not been conditioned by cell culture (control); BV422, baculovirus
expressing CCL21; BV762, baculovirus expressing Raf.
[0041]Figure 10B depicts a line graph that shows PBMC-mediated toxicity of tumor
cells in vitro when exposed to the indicated compositions following filtering through a
0.2 mm filter, as described in Example 8. Removal of high molecular weight
substances by filtering significantly reduced cytotoxicity. The cell pellet samples
showed residual low to moderate cytotoxicity.
[0042] Figure 11A depicts a bar graph, which shows changes in dendritic cell
expression of CD88 and MHC II in response to the indicated stimuli. Mouse bone
marrow-derived dendritic cells were prepared and analyzed as described in Example
9. Vaccinia virus expressing HIV gag protein (VLP) was used as a positive control.
Similar to VLP, live baculovirus induced CD86 and MHC II expression, which is
indicative of DC maturation. Black bars, CD86 expression; gray bars, MHC II
expression.
[0043]Figure 11B depicts a bar graph, which shows changes in dendritic ceil
expression of CD86 and MHC II in response to the indicated stimuli. Human
monocyte-derived dendritic cells were prepared and analyzed as described in
Example 9. Vaccinia virus expressing the HIV gag protein (p55 VLP) was used as a
positive control. Similar to p55 VLP, live baculovirus induced OC maturation. Black
bars, CD86 expression; gray bars, HLA-DR expression.
[0044] Figure 12 depicts the results of a chromium release assay, which was
performed as described in Example 10. Vaccinia virus expressing HIV gag protein
(VLP) was used as a positive control. Similar to VLP, live baculovirus acts as a
potent adjuvant to induce cytotoxic T cell lysis.
[0045] Figure 13 depicts PBMC-mediated toxicity of tumor cells in vitro when
exposed to the indicated compositions, as described in Example 8.
[0046] Figure 14 depicts the correlation of PBMC Cytotoxicity Assay with in vivo anti-
tumor activity.
[0047] Figure 15 depicts the blockage of Baculovirus Tumor Cell Killing by anti-gp64
Monoclonal Antibodies. See Example 13.
[0048] Figure 16 depicts PBMC-Mediated Tumor Cell Killing in vitro induced by
inactivated baculovirus. See Example 14.
[0049] Figure 17 demonstrates that tumor cells are the primary targets for
baculovirus. See Example 15.
[0050] Figure 18 depicts tumor growth inhibition in an animal model of lung cancer
using baculovirus. See Example 16.
[0051] Figure 19 depicts baculovirus-induced protection from pathogenic viral
challenge in vivo and in vitro. Cells were challenged in vivo and in vitro with
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV). See Example 17.
[0052] Figure 20 depicts the bystander effect. Maximal killing effect is achieved after
exposing as few as 20% of a population of tumor cells to baculovirus.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A1. Anti-tumor Activity of Non-Pathogenic Viruses
[00S3]lmmunological approaches to cancer treatment include the use of chemokines
as therapeutic agents. Chemokines are a family of homologous proteins whose
functions include: (a) mediating lymphocyte migration and activation; (2) regulating
angiogenesis; (c) and maintaining immune homeostasis and secondary lymphoid
organ architecture. See Baggiolini et al. (1997) Annu Rev Immunol 15:675-705;
Jung & Littman (1999) Curr Opin Immunol 11:319-25; and Homey et al. (2002) Nat
Rev Immunol 2:175-84.
[0054] In the course of developing cancer immunotherapies that employ Secondary
Lymphoid Tissue Chemokine (referred to herein as "CCL21;" also known in the art
as SLC, Exodus-2, and 6C-kine), as described in Examples 1-6, the inventors of the
subject disclosure came to the surprising discovery that non-pathogenic viruses are
potent anti-tumor agents. See Example 7.
[0055]Thus, the present invention provides, inter a//a, methods for treating a subject
in need of anti-cancer therapy, including inhibition of cancer growth, inhibition of
cancer metastasis, and cancer resistance, via administration of a non-pathogenic
virus to the subject. Significantly, the cancer immunotherapies disclosed herein do
not rely on identification of tumor-specific antigens. Rather, administration of non-
pathogenic viruses is broadly applicable and is efficacious in multiple tumor types.
See Examples 2-6.
[0056] While the inventors do not wish to be bound to a particular mode of operation,
the inventors suggest that the anti-cancer activity of non-pathogenic viruses is
attributable, at least in part, to their immunostimulatory properties. For example,
baculovirus activates dendritic cell maturation and cytolytic T cell (CTL) responses
both in vitro and in vivo. See Examples 9-10. See also Gronowski et al. (1999) J
Virol. 73:9944-51.
[0057] The term "virus," as used herein to describe an effective anti-tumor
composition, encompasses live virus, inactivated virus, virus particles, viral occlusion
bodies, virosomes, Viral Like Particles, viral components, and combinations thereof.
[0058]Virosomes and Virus Like Particles (VLPs) generally contain one or more
proteins from a non-pathogenic virus optionally combined or formulated with a
phospholipid. In some embodiments virosomes and VLPs are non-replicating and
do not contain any of the native viral genome. The viral proteins may be
recombinantly produced or isolated from whole viruses. VLPs are discussed further
in WO 03/024480, WO 03/024481, Niikura et al.,"(Chimeric Recombinant Hepatitis E
Virus-Like Particles as an Oral Vaccine Vehicle Presenting Foreign Epitopes",
Virology (2002) 293:273 - 280); Lenz et al., (Papillomarivurs-Like Particles Induce
Acute Activation of Dendritic Cells, Journal of Immunology (2001) 5246 - 5355);
Pinto, et al, (Cellular Immune Responses to Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-16 L1
Healthy Volunteers Immunized with Recombinant HPV-16 L1 Virus-Like Particles",
Journal of Infectious Diseases (2003) 188:327 - 338); and Gerber et al., (Human
Papillomavirus Virus-Like Particles Are Efficient Oral Immunogens when
Coadministered with Escherichia coli Heat-Labile Entertoxin Mutant R192G or CpG),
Journal of Virology (2001) 75(10):4752 -4760. Virosomes are discussed further in,
for example, Gluck et al., (New Technology Platforms in the Development of
Vaccines for the Future, Vaccine (2002) 20:B10-B16.)
[0059] The term "live virus" refers to a virus whose infectivity is similar or identical to
a native virus. In particular, a live virus can infect its native host cells.
[0060]The term "inactivated virus" refers to a virus that is incapable of replication in
a native host cell, as described further herein below. For example, a non-pathogenic
virus, which is incapable of replication in a mammalian host cell, is similarly
incapable of replication in it native host cell upon being inactivated. Inactivated
viruses can be used to minimize safety concerns regarding administration of live
viruses. An "inactivator" is the agent utilised to inactivate the virus.
[0061]The term "virus particle" refers to a virus that has been constructed, or
modified from jis native form, whereby it is unable to replicate in naturally occurring
host cells. Methods for preparing virus particles are known in the art. The structural
and functional integrity of virus-like particles can be assessed by electron
microscopy, immunogenicity analyses, and standard plaque assays. For example,
Hamakubo, et. al WO 02/06305 discuss generation of enucleated baculovinal-like
particles.
[0062]U.S. Patent No. 5,750.383 discloses methods for preparing baculovirus
particles using a marker-rescue system. The method employs a genetically modified
baculovirus, which lacks a gene essential for viral replication (e.g., gp64), and which
is propagated in cells that complement the genetic deficiency.
[0063]The term "viral occlusion body" refers to a structure comprising a multiplicity of
viral particles embedded within a virus-encoded proteinaceous crystal. Upon
dissolution of the protein crystal, the multiplicity of viral particles is released, and
each viral particle is capable of subsequent infection of a host cell.
[0064] Production of viruses, and in particular baculoviruses, is accomplished using
techniques well known in the art Cloned cell lines are provided in a culture medium
in vitro, inoculated with virus, and incubated for a sufficient time and under conditions
effective to allow viral production. Culture conditions, including cell density,
multiplicity of infection, time, temperature, media, etc. are not critical and can be
readily determined by a practitioner skilled in the art.
[0065] Representative methods for baculovirus production are described in Example
1, which employ Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf) cells. Additional representative host
cells and amplification methods are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,405,770
(Heliothis subflexa cell line) and 6,379,958 (Spodoptera frugiperda cell lines, which
show improved baculovirus production).
[0066]Following incubation, the viral agents so produced are recovered by
techniques conventional in the art, including polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation,
ultracentrifugation, and chromatographic purification, such as use of an ion
exchange resin, size exclusion chromatography, affinity chromatography, or
combinations thereof. See U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0015945
(chromatographic purification); U.S. Patent No. 6,194,192 (viral adsorption to
sulfated-fucose"Containing polysaccharide(s)).
[0067]The term "viral component," as used herein, refers to a molecule that is
derived from a non-pathogenic virus and that retains anti-tumor and/or anti-infectious
disease activity of the parent live virus. In some embodiments, a viral component
comprises anti-tumor activity that is similar in magnitude and specificity of response
when compared to that elicited by the parent live virus from which it was derived.
The term "viral component" encompasses any biological component of a virus
including, for example, one or more of a protein, a peptide, a nucleic acid, a lipid, a
carbohydrate, any other bioactive molecule of a virus, and combinations thereof. In
some embodiments, the viral component is gp64.
[0068] For example, a viral component can comprise a viral capsid protein or a DNA-
assodated protein of the viral nucleoprotein core. Representative baculoviral capsid
proteins are described by Pearson et al. (1988) Virology 167:407-13; by Summers &
Smith (1978) Virology 84:390-402; by Thiem & Miller (1989) J Virol 63:2008-18; and
by Vialard & Richardson (1993) J Virol 67:5859-66. Representative baculoviral
DNA-associated proteins are described by Tweeten et al. (1980) J Virol 33:866-876;
by Wilson et al. (1987) J Virol 61:661-6; and by Rohrmann (1992) J Gen Virol 73 (Pt
4):749-61.
[0069]A viral component can also comprise proteins and carbohydrates found in
viral occlusion bodies, including the occlusion body matrix and the calyx outer layer
found in mature occlusion bodies. Representative baculovirus occlusion body
proteins include polyhedron and calyx.
[0070]Following a review of the disclosure herein, which provides that non-
pathogenic viruses have potent anti-tumor activity and/or anti-infectious disease
activity, a skilled artisan could readily identify, purify or otherwise prepare, and
administer viral components to recapitulate the anti-tumor activity and/or anti-
infectious disease of the parent live virus. For example, as one approach, U.S.
Patent No. 6,001,806 discloses biochemical methods for fractionating baculovirus-
infected insect cells, and then using the eluate fractions in assays to identify a
glycoprotein that mimics the anti-viral activity previously recognized in the parent live
virus.
[0071] In addition, viral proteins and nucleic acids are readily prepared using
recombinant methods known in the art and can be similarly tested for anti-cancer
and/or anti-infectious disease activity. For example, viral nucleic acids can be
cloned, synthesized, altered, mutagenized, or combinations thereof. Standard
recombinant DNA and molecular cloning techniques used to isolate nucleic acids
can be found, for example, in Sambrook et al. (eds.) (1989) Molecular Cloning: A
Laboratory Manual. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, New
York; Silhavy et al. (1984) Experiments with Gene Fusions. Cold Spring Harbor
Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, New York; Glover & Hames (1995) DNA
Cloning: A Practical Approach. 2nd ed. IRL Press at Oxford University Press,
Oxford/New York; and Ausubel (ed.) (1995) Short Protocols in Molecular Biology. 3rd
ed. Wiley, New York. Recombinantly produced polypeptides can also be purified
and characterized using a variety of standard techniques that are known to the
skilled artisan. See e.g., Schroder & Lübke (1965) The Peptides. Academic Press,
New York; Schneider & Eberle (1993) Peptides. 1992: Proceedings of the Twenty-
Second European Peptide Symposium. September 13-19. 1992. Interiaken.
Switzerland. Escom, Leiden; Bodanszky (1993) Principles of Peptide Synthesis. 2nd
rev. ed. Springer-Verlag, Berlin; New York; and Ausubel (ed.) (1995) Short Protocols
in Molecular Biology. 3rd ed. Wiley, New York.
[0072] In particular, the complete sequence of AcNPV is known (Kool and Vlak,
1993), and thus a systematic analysis of all AcNPV proteins can be readily
performed using known methods for recombinant expression in combination with
assays for anti-tumor activity.
[0073]To facilitate identification of active viral components, the present invention
further provides an in vitro assay that can be used to screen candidate viral
components. See Example 8. The assay involves induction of cytotoxicity by
peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). As disclosed herein, a non-
pathogenic virus can induce cytotoxictty of tumor cells by PBMCs, and this activity
correlates with anti-tumor activity observed upon in vivo administration. Candidate
viral components include, for example, biochemical fractions of a non-pathogenic
. virus, purified or recornbinantly produced viral proteins, purified or synthesized
nudeic acids, virosomes, Virus Like Particles, and the like.
[0074] The term "non-pathogenic," as used herein to describe a virus, refers to a
virus that is not infectious in a mammalian host to be treated with the virus, and in
some embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus is not infectious in any mammalian host
In some embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus is not infectious in a human host
For the sake of convenience, unless otherwise indicated, the term "non-pathogenic"
virus includes inactivated virus, virus particles, viral occlusion bodies, virosomes,
Viral Like Particles, viral components, and combinations thereof.
[0075] The term "infectious" generally refers to a property of being deleterious to a
host cell or organism, for example by expression of genes that are deleterious to the
host cell or organism and/or by replication in the host. Consistent with this definition,
non-pathogenicity does not preclude entry into a mammalian cell, wherein such entry
does not compromise the health of the host cell or organism. However, in some
embodiments, a non-infectious virus does not enter into a mammalian cell.
[0076] A non-pathogenic virus, for example baculovirus, can also be transcriptionally
silent in mammalian host cells. Thus, in some embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus
can be a type of virus that is specifically excluded from current gene therapy
methods, as heterologous genes are also not expressed.
[0077] Examples of non-pathogenic viruses include, but are not limited to, insect-
specific viruses, amphibian-specific viruses, and plant-specific viruses.
Representative viruses useful in the methods disclosed herein include viruses of the
family Baculoviridae (e.g., nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPV) such as Autographa
califomtca NPV, and granuloviruses (GV) such as Trichoplusia ni GV),
Polydnaviridae (e.g., ichnoviruses such as Campoletis sonorensis virus, and
bracoviruses such as Cotesia melanoscela virus), Ascoviruses, Tetraviridae, and
Nodaviridae (e.g., nodaviruses such as Nodamura virus and Rock House Virus). A
number of non-pathogenic viruses useful in the present invention are found in
insects. See Fields et al., eds. (1996) Virology, Lippincott-Rave Publishers,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
[0078]The term "infectious disease" refers to an agent (e.g. virus, fungi or bacteria)
that is deleterious to its host. In some embodiments the agent is deleterious to a
human host. An "anti-infectious disease" treatment refers to a treatment that
prevents, ameliorates or eradicates the infectious disease and/or its disease-causing
agent.
[0079] Examples of infectious diseases include without limitation, HIV, West Nile
virus, hepatitis A, B, C, small pox, tuberculosis, Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV),
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), human papilloma virus (HPV), SARS, influenza,
Ebola, viral meningitis, herpes, anthrax, lyme disease, and E. Coli., among others.
[0080] In some embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus comprises a baculovirus. As
described in the Examples below, the present invention provides that baculovirus is
a potent inhibitor of tumor growth and can promote complete tumor remission. The
present invention further provides that baculovirus can be used to inhibit tumor
metastasis and to promote resistance to tumor re-challenge, as described in
Examples 5-6.
[0081]As used herein, the term "tumor re-challenge" refers to animal whose cancer
or tumor has been treated or removed and then is exposed to a new tumor. In
accordance with the definition provided herein above, the term "baculovirus"
encompasses baculovirus particles and baculovirus components.
[0082]The host specificity of baculovirus has been thoroughly studied. Although
baculovirus is known to infect over 30 species of Lepidoptera, it is not thought to be
competent to replicate in other Insect cells or in any of the over 35 mammalian cell
lines studied. See Tjia et al. (1983) Virology 125:107-17; Volkman & Goldsmith
(1983) Appl Environ Microbiol 45:1085-1093; and Mclntosh & Shamy (1980)
Intervirology 13:331-41. Baculovirus does, however, enter mammalian cells and
viral DNA can be detected in the host cell nucleus. See Graner et al. (1984)
Intervirology 21:203-9; Tjia et al. (1983) Virology 125:107-17; and Volkman &
Goldsmith (1983) Appl Environ Micrablol 45:1085-93.
[0083]The term "non-pathogenic" further encompasses viruses, which are
pathogenic in their native form, and which have been modified to be non-pathogenic.
Such modification can include genetic modification (e.g., disruption of a gene that is
essential for viral replication, as described herein above for the baculovirus gp64
gene; and/or disruption of a viral promoter to render it transcripfionally Inactive in the
host species). For example, the species-specific pathogenicity of baculovirus is due
in part to silence of the bacuiovirus promoter in species, other than Lepidoptera.
When a heterologous promoter is inserted into baculovirus genome, the modified
virus becomes capable of gene expression in non-Lepidopteran cell lines, including
various mammalian cell lines. See Boyce & Bucher (1996) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA
93:2348-52; Carbonell et al. (1985) J Viral 56:153-60; Carbonell & Miller (1987) Appl
Environ Microbiol 53:1412-7; and Hofmann et al. (1995) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA
92:10099-103. A viral promoter that is initially active in mammalian cells could be
similarly modified to the opposite result, whereby it is no longer pathogenic in
mammalian species. Methods for site-specific mutagenesis to create base pair
changes, deletions, or small insertions are also known in the art, for example as
described in the references noted herein above.
[0084] Modified viruses, as well as unmodified viruses that are suspected to be non-
pathogenic, can be readily assayed for non-pathogenicity using methods for
determining viral infectivity and replication known in the art. Representative methods
can be found, for example, in Tjia et al. (1983) Virology 125:107-17; Volkman &
Goldsmith (1983) Appl Environ Microblol 45:1085-93; Mclntoah & Shamy (1980)
Intervirology 13:331-41; and U.S. Patent No. 6,248,514, among other places.
[0085]The present invention also provides non-pathogenic viruses having anti-
cancer activity and/or anti-infectious disease activity and/or adjuvant activity,
including live viruses, inactive viruses, viral particles, virosomes, VLPs, viral
occlusion bodies, and viral components. Also provided are methods for selecting a
non-pathogenic virus useful in the therapeutic methods described herein.
[0086]To select a non-pathogenic virus having anti-cancer activity, candidate non-
pathogenic viruses can be tested using an in vitro or in vivo assay of tumor cytolysis,
as described in Example 8, and/or an in vivo or in vivo model of anti-cancer activity,
for example as described in the Examples. In some embodiments, an in vitro assay
can be used as an initial screen, and then viruses that are active in vitro can be
subsequently tested in relevant animal models to assess anti-cancer activity.
[0087]To select a non-pathogenic virus having adjuvant activity, candidate non-
pathogenic viruses can be tested for ability to enhance immunogenicity of an
antigen. Immunogenicity can be determined by, for example, detecting T cell-
mediated responses. Representative methods for measuring T cell responses
include in vitro cytotoxicity assays or in vivo delayed-type hypersensrtivity assays. In
some embodiments, for example, CCL21 in combination with a non-pathogenic virus
can induce in vitro cytotoxicity of tumor cells by PBMCs, and this activity correlates
with anti-tumor activity upon in vivo administration. Other antigens may substitute for
CCL21. Immunogenicity can also be assessed by detection of antigen-specific
antibodies in a subject's serum, and/or by a demonstration of protective effects of
antisera or immune cells specific for the antigen. In some embodiments, a non-
pathogenic virus enhances immunogenicity of ah antigen by at least about 2-fold,
about 5-fold, about 10-fold, about 25-fold, or about 100-fold.
[0088] In some embodiments, non-pathogenic viruses are inactivated, as described
further herein below. Non-pathogenic viruses, which show anti-cancer, can be
subjected to any one of a variety of inactivation methods to render the virus
incapable of infecting its native host cell. Using the assays disclosed herein, a
skilled artisan can select an inactivation method that preserves anti-cancer activity of
the virus. In some embodiments, inactivation methods permit viral entry into host
ceils, and disrupt transcription and/or replication of the viral genome. In some
embodiments, a virus is genetically modified such that it is capable of cellular entry,
but is unable to undergo normal transcription and/or replication.
A2. Anti-infectious Disease Activity of Non-Pathogenic Viruses
[0089] Current approaches to treatment of infectious diseases indude the use of
medicaments that cause adverse or undesirable side effects. Additionally, many
effective therapies including vaccination are specific for only a single infectious agent
or agents closely related thereto. The inventors of the subject disclosure came to the
surprising discovery that non-pathogenic viruses are also potent against infectious
diseases. See Example 17.
[0090]To select a non-pathogenic virus having anti-infectious disease activity,
candidate non-pathogenic viruses can be tested using an in vitro or in vivo assay of
the infectious disease which are well known by those of skill in the art. For example,
for tuberculosis, a rabbit TB model or an in vitro Macrophage Model may be used to
test for anti-infectious disease activity. Abe et al., (Journal of Immunology, 2003,
171: 1133-1139) discuss other assays suitable for testing compounds for activity
against infectious diseases.
[0091] In some embodiments, an in vitro assay can be used as an initial screen, and
then viruses that are active in vitro can be subsequently tested in relevant animal
models to assess anti-infectious disease activity.
[0092]Thus, the present invention provides, inter alia, methods for treating a subject
in need of anti-infectious disease therapy via administration of a non-pathogenic
virus to the subject. Significantly, the non-pathogenic viruses with anti-infectious
disease activity disclosed herein do not appear to rely on identification of antigens
specific to an infectious agent Rather, administration of non-pathogenic viruses is
broadly applicable.
[0093] While the inventors do not wish to be bound to a particular mode of operation,
the inventors suggest that the anti-infectious disease activity of non-pathogenic
viruses is attributable, at least in part, to their immunostimulatory properties. For
example, baculovirus activates dendritic cell maturation and cytolytic T cell (CTL)
responses both in vitro and in vivo. See Examples 9-10.
B. Therapeutic Applications
[0094] The present invention provides methods for treating a cancer-bearing
mammalian subject via administration of a non-pathogenic virus to the subject. The
disclosed methods are useful for, for example, inhibiting cancer growth, including
complete cancer remission, for inhibiting cancer metastasis, and for promoting
cancer resistance.
[0095] The present invention provides methods for treating a subject having one or
more infectious diseases via administration of a non-pathogenic virus to the subject.
The disclosed methods are useful for, for example, inhibiting viral replication, inhibit
fungal growth.
[0096]The term "cancer growth" generally refers to any one of a number of indices
that suggest change within the cancer to a more developed form. Thus, indices for
measuring an inhibition of cancer growth include but are not limited to a decrease in
cancer cell survival, a decrease in tumor volume or morphology (for example, as
determined using computed tomographic (CT), sonography, Or other imaging
method), a delayed tumor growth, a destruction of tumor vasculature, improved
performance in delayed hypersensitivity skin test, an increase in the activity of
cytolytic T-lymphocytes, and a decrease in levels of tumor-specific antigens.
[0097] The term "delayed tumor growth" refers to a decrease in duration of time
required for a tumor to grow a specified amount For example, treatment can delay
the time required for a tumor to increase in volume 3-fold relative to an initial day of
measurement (day 0) or the time required to grow to 1 cm3.
[0098]The term "cancer resistance" refers to an improved capacity of a subject to
resist cancer growth, in particular growth of a cancer already had. Alternatively
stated, the term "cancer resistance" refers to a decreased propensity for cancer
growth in a subject Cancer resistance is associated with induction of an adaptive
immune response, as described herein below.
[0099] The term "subject" as used herein includes any mammalian species. In some
embodiments, the methods of the present invention are contemplated for the
treatment of cancers and/or infectious diseases in mammals such as humans, as
well as those mammals of importance due to being endangered, of economical
importance and/or social importance to humans.
[00100] The term "cancel" generally refers to. tumors, including both primary and
metastasized tumors. In some embodiments, the tumor is a solid tumor. The term
"tumor" encompasses solid tumors and carcinomas of any tissue in a subject,
including but not limited to breast; colon; rectum; lung; oropharynx; hypopharynx;
esophagus; stomach; pancreas; liver; gallbladder, bile ducts; small intestine; urinary
tract including kidney, bladder and urothelium; female genital tract including cervix,
uterus, ovaries (e.g., choriocarcinoma and gestational trophoblastic disease); male
genital tract including prostate, seminal vesicles, testes and germ cell tumors;
endocrine glands including thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary; skin (e.g., hemangiomas
and melanomas), bone or soft tissues; blood vessels (e.g., Kaposi's sarcoma); brain,
nerves, eyes, and meninges (e.g., astrocytomas, gliomas, glioblastomas,
retinoblastomas, neuromas, neuroblastomas, Schwannomas and meningiomas).
[00101] The term "tumor" also encompasses solid tumors arising from
hematopoietic malignancies such as leukemias, including chloromas,
plasmacytomas, plaques and tumors of mycosis fungoides and cutaneous T-cell
lymphorna/Ieukemia, multiple myeloma, and lymphomas including both Hodgkin's
and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
[00102] The term "cancer," as used herein, also encompasses non-neopiastic
proliferative disorders. Thus, the methods of the present invention are contemplated
for the treatment or prevention of hyperplasia, metaplasia, or most particularly,
dysplasia (for review of such abnormal growth conditions, see Robbins & Angeli
(1976) Basic Pathology, 2d Ed., pp. 68-79, W. B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania).
[00103] Hyperplasia is a form of controlled ceil proliferation involving an increase
in cell number in a tissue or organ, without significant alteration in structure or
function. As one non-limiting example, endometrial hyperplasia often precedes
endometrial cancer. Metaplasia is a form of controlled cell growth in which one type
of adult or fully differentiated cell substitutes for another type of adult cell.
Metaplasia can occur in epithelial or connective tissue cells. Atypical metaplasia
involves a somewhat disorderly metaplastic epithelium. Dysplasia is frequently a
forerunner of cancer, and is found mainly in the epithelia; it is the most disorderly
form of non-neoplastic cell growth, involving a loss in individual cell uniformity and in
the architectural orientation of cells. Dysplastic cells often have abnormally large,
deeply stained nuclei, and exhibit pleomorphism. Dysplasia characteristically occurs
where there exists chronic irritation or inflammation, and is often found in the cervix,
respiratory passages, oral cavity, and gall bladder. Although preneoplastic lesions
can progress to neoplasia, they can also remain stable for long periods and can
even regress, particularly if the inciting agent is removed or if the lesion succumbs to
an immunological attack by its host
[00104] Thus, administration of a non-pathogenic virus to a subject as disclosed
herein can elicit an innate anti-cancer immune response or an adaptive, cancer-
specific immune response. The term Immune system" includes all the cells, tissues,
systems, structures and processes, including non-specific and specific categories,
that provide a defense against cells comprising antigenic molecules, including but
not limited to tumors, pathogens, and self-reactive cells. Thus, an immune response
can comprise an innate immune response, an adaptive immune response, or a
combination thereof.
[00105] The term "innate immune system" includes phagocytic cells such as
neutrophils, monocytes, tissue macrophages, Kupffer cells, alveolar macrophages,
dendritic cells, and microglia. The innate immune system mediates non-specific
immune responses. The innate immune system plays an important role in initiating
and guiding responses of the adaptive immune system. See e.g., Janeway (1989)
Cold Spring Harb Symp Quant Biol 54:1-13; Romagnani (1992) Immunol Today
13:379-381; Fearon & Locksley (1996) Science 272:50-53; and Fearon (1997)
Nature 388:323-324. An innate response can comprise, for example, dendritic cell
maturation, macrophage activation, cytokine or chemokine secretion, and/or
activation of NFKB signaling.
[00106] The term "adaptive immune system" refers to the cells and tissues that
impart specific immunity within a host. Included among these cells are natural killer
(NK) cells and lymphocytes (e.g., B cell lymphocytes and T cell lymphocytes). The
term "adaptive immune system" also includes antibody-producing cells and the
antibodies produced by the antibody-producing cells.
[00107] The term "adaptive immune response" refers to a specific response to an
antigen include humoral immune responses (e.g., production of antigen-specific
antibodies) and cell-mediated immune responses (.e.g., lymphocyte proliferation), as
defined herein below. An adaptive immune response can further comprise systemic
immunity and humoral immunity.
[00108] The terms "cell-mediated immunity" and "cell-mediated immune response"
refer to the immunologica! defense provided by lymphocytes, such as that defense
provided by T cell lymphocytes when they come into close proximity to their victim
cells. A cell-mediated immune response also comprises lymphocyte proliferation.
When "lymphocyte proliferation" is measured, the ability of lymphocytes to proliferate
in response to specific antigen is measured. Lymphocyte proliferation is meant to
refer to B cell, T-helper cell or CTL cell proliferation.
[00109] The term "CTL response", as used herein refers to the ability of an
antigen-specific cell to lyse and kill a cell expressing the specific antigen. As
described herein, standard, art-recognized CTL assays are performed to measure
CTL activity.
[00110] The term "systemic immune response", as used herein, refers to an
immune response in the lymph node-, spleen-, or gut-associated lymphoid tissues
wherein cells, such as B lymphocytes, of the immune system are developed. For
example, a systemic immune response can comprise the production of serum
immunoglobulins (IgGs). Further, systemic immune response refers to antigen-
specific antibodies circulating in the blood stream and antigen-specific cells in
lymphoid tissue in systemic compartments such as the. spleen and lymph nodes.
[00111] The terms "humoral immunity" or "humoral immune response" are meant
to refer to the form of acquired immunity in which antibody molecules are secreted in
response to antigenic stimulation.
[00112] The term "cancer-specific," as used herein to describe an adaptive
immune response, refers to a cell-mediated or humoral immune response in a
subject, wherein the response is directed specifically to a cancer previously present
in the subject. Given that innate and adaptive immune responses involve unique
immune cell types, one would not expect that methods for eliciting an innate immune
response could also elicit an adaptive immune response. In some embodiments,
administration of a non-pathogenic virus to a subject elicits both an innate immune
response and an adaptive immune response.
[00113] In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein for the
administration of non-pathogenic viruses can be combined with one or more other
cancer therapies. For example, a tumor or abnormal cell growth can be surgically
removed before or after administration of a non-pathogenic virus. Similarly, a non-
pathogenic virus of the invention can be co-administered or co-formulated with
additional agents, for example anti-angiogenic, chemotherapeutics, and/or additional
immunomodulatory agents. Representative agents that can be used in conjunction
with a non-pathogenic virus include, but are not limited to, methoxtrexate. tamoxifen,
nelandron, nilutamide, adriamycin, 5-fluorouracil (5FU), cytokines such interferon
alpha (IFN-a), interferon gamma (IFN-g), interleukin 2 (IL2), irrterieukin 4 (IL4),
interleukin 6 (IL6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Infectious diseases can further
be treated by administering anti-virals, anti-biotics, or anti-fungals.
[00114] The present invention further relates to methods and compositions useful
for inducing cytotoxic T-cell mediated responses in mammalian subjects, including
humans. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to the use of a non-
pathogenic virus for inducing cytotoxic T-cell mediated responses. Thus, the present
invention provides methods for preparing antigen formulations comprising a non-
pathogenic virus and an antigen. The term "antigen" refers to a substance that
activates lymphocytes (positively or negatively) by interacting with T cell or B cell
receptors. Positive activation leads to immune responsiveness, and negative
activation leads to immune tolerance. An antigen can comprise a protein, a
carbohydrate, a lipid, a nucleic acid, or combinations thereof. An antigen can
comprise a heterologous (e.g., an antigen that is typically not found in a host subject)
or an autologous antigen (self antigen).
[00115] Also provided are methods for using the disclosed antigen formulations as
therapeutic and/or prophylactic agents. For example, such antigen formulations can
be administered to a mammalian subject for the treatment of diseases in which a
CTL response is important, for example, in the treatment of HIV infection or
influenza; it can also be extended to use in treatment or prevention of bacterial
infections, parasitic infections, and the like.
[00116] In some embodiments the present invention provides methods of
inhibiting one or more symptoms of cancer in an individual in need thereof. The
methods comprise administering to the individual an amount of a composition
comprising a non-pathogenic virus effective to inhibit one or more symptoms of
cancer in the individual.
[00117] Symptoms of cancer are well known to the art-skilled and include both
physiological and physical indicia. Physiological indicia include, without limitation,
tumor growth, abnormal ceil growth, metastasis, angiogenesis, cell death or cell
invasiveness. Physical indicia include, without limitation, weight loss, bleeding,
difficulty in breathing, bone fractures, compromised immune system or fatigue.
[00118] The administration of a non-pathogenic virus to a subject as disclosed
herein can also elicit an anti-infectious disease immune response. As discussed
above, an immune response can comprise an innate immune response, an adaptive
immune response, or a combination thereof.
[00119] The present invention also provides methods of protecting an animal from
an infectious disease comprising administering to the animal an effective amount of
a composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus. In some embodiments the non-
pathogenic virus is inactivated by any methods or by methods disclosed herein.
Based on the Examples described below it was observed that the administration of
inactive non-pathogenic virus protected against an infectious agent (e.g. virus,
fungus, or bacteria). In some embodiments, the non-pathogenic virus is an insect-
specific virus (e.g. Baculaviridae family). The non-pathogenic virus can also be co-
administered with other vaccines, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, or
combinations thereof.
C. Therapeutic Compositions and Methods
[00120] The present invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions and
methods for using the same. A non-pathogenic virus of the invention is prepared
and formulated for safe and efficacious anti-tumor and/or anti-infectious disease
and/or adjuvant activity, as described herein.
[00121] The present invention also provides compositions that can be used to
treat or prevent infectious disease and/or cancer. In some embodiments, the
compositions comprise a non-pathogenic virus and peripheral blood mononudear
cells (PBMCs). In some embodiments, the PBMCs are isolated from the animal or
individual, contacted with the non-pathogenic virus ex vivo, and then re-administered
to the animal or individual as a mixture or combination. In some embodiments, the
PBMCs are isolated from a different animal or individual than is being treated or to
whom the compositions of the present invention are being administered.
[00122] In some embodiments, the composition comprises non-pathogenic virus
and at least one tumor cell. The tumor cell can either be autologous or alfogenic to
the individual or animal.
[00123] in some embodiments, the composition comprises a non-pathogenic
virus, at least one tumor cell, and at least one PBMC. In some embodiments the
non-pathogenic virus is an inactive virus.
C.1. Viral Inactivation
[00124] In some embodiments, live non-pathogenic viruses used in the methods
of the present invention are inactivated prior to administration to a subject Non-
pathogenic viruses, as defined herein above, are incapable of replication in a
mammalian host. Inactivation, which renders the virus non-replicative in its native
host cell, can be performed as an additional safety measure.
[00125] Viral inactivation can be accomplished by any suitable means, including but
not limited to destruction of lipid or protein components of a viral coat, modification
such that the virus is unrecognizable to a target cell, destruction of viral nucleic acid,
and/or rendering of ihe virus as irreplicable. Representative methods for viral
inactivation include but not limited to pasteurization, treatment with detergents (e.g.,
Triton-X100®), alkylation with binary ethylenimine (BEI), photochemical inactivation,
UV-light inactivation, radiation, physical disruption (e.g. sonication, electron beam);
genetic inactivation and combinations thereof. See Rueda et al. (2000) Vaccine
19:726-34 and Henzler & Kaiser (1998) Nat Biotechnol 16:1077-9. In some
embodiments, inactivation does not significantly reduce viral antigenicity and/or
activity. Viral inactivation is assayed using standard methods for determining viral
infectivity.
[00126] "Genetic inactivation," as used herein, refers to the manipulation of the
nucleic acids (e.g. genes) of the virus. The manipulation can include, for example,
deletion of one or more genes, mutation of at least one gene; creation of
temperature sensitive mutants, inactivation of a gene, and the like. Temperature
sensitive mutants are mutants that at one temperature are permissive, while at
another temperature it is restrictive (e.g. inhibits viral replication). In the case of a
baculovirus this can be used to allow the virus to grow at room temperature (e.g.
about 25°C) for propagation and preparation, but when administered to an animal the
higher internal temperature of the animal will inactivate the virus. In some
embodiments, the temperature sensitive mutant will be permissive at a temperature
in the ranges of about 16-28°C, about 20-28°C, about 25-28°C, or about 27°C. In
some embodiments, the restrictive temperature for a temperature sensitive mutant is
about 30-45°C, about 32-40°C, about 35-38°C, about 37oC. In some embodiments
the restrictive temperature is any temperature above about 28°C, about 29°C, about
30°C, about 31 °C, about 32°C, about 33°C, about 34°C, about 35°C, about 36°C, or
about 37°C. In some embodiments the temperature sensitive mutant is inactive
inside an animal or an individual. In some embodiments, the temperature sensitive
mutant is 100% less active, about 90% less active, about 80% less active, about
70% less active, about 60% less active, about 50% less active, about 40% less
active, about 30% less active, about 20% less active, or about 10% less active as
compared to the wild-type virus at the restrictive temperature.
[00127] Temperature sensitive mutants can have any gene mutated that reduces the
activity of the virus at one temperature when compared to another temperature.
Examples of genes or proteins that can be mutated include, but are not limited to
Guanylyltransferase, RNA triphosphatase, ATPase, a protein kinase (e.g. PK-1), and
the like. Examples of temperature sensitive mutants can be found in, for example,
Jin et al., Journal of Virology, (1998), Vol. 72, pp.10011-10019, and McLachlin et a!.,
Virology, (1998). Vol. 246, pp. 379-391, each of which are hereby incorporated by
reference.
[00128] Pasteurization is a simple approach for inactivation if the viruses can
withstand thermal treatment sufficient for inactivation. In some embodiments, the
heating is performed for a minimally sufficient time period to minimize damage to
viral proteins. Optionally, viral damage can be minimized by the use of stabilizers
and sodium citrate, saccharose, and/or glycine.
[00129] Alternately, chemical inactivation, for example mild pepsin processing at low
pH values or exposure to detergents, can be used to disrupt the lipid bilayer and thus
can be used for inactivating enveloped viruses, including baculovinjs. See U.S.
Patent Nos. 4,820,806 and 4,764,369. Aziridine binary ethylenimine is a potent
alkylating agent that inactivates virus by selectively interacting with nucleophylic
groups of nucleic acids but not proteins.
[00130] In some embodiments of the invention, viral inactivation is achieved via a
photochemical reaction. According to this approach, a radiation sensitizing chemical
compound is added to a liquid suspension of non-pathogenic viruses, and the
mixture is exposed to UV light or ionizing (y or X-ray) radiation.
[00131] Psoralen, and derivatives thereof, and compounds with a linear tricyclic
structure resembling psoralen, are capable of evoking photosensitization. Psoralens
are bi-functional photoreactive molecules, which form covalent bonds with nucleic
acids in the presence of long wavelength ultraviolet light Psoralen molecules
intercalate into DNA duplexes and then photoreact to cross-link the individual
strands of the DNA. See Hwang et ai. (1996) Biochem Biophys Res Commun
219:191-7. The crosslinking renders the DNA unable to replicate or to be
transcribed. Commercially available psoralen compounds include &-
methoxypsoralen (methoxsalen) and 4,5', 8 trimethyl psoralen (trioxaJen). The
wavelengths most effective for photochemical Inactivation using psoralen are in the
range between 320 nm and 380 nm, with maximum effectiveness between 33 nm
and 360 nm. See Pathak, M (1974) in Sunlight and Man, eds. Pathak, M &
Fitzpatrick, T, University of Tokyo Press, Tokyo.
[00132] Additional photosensitizing agents include halogenated psoralens,
angelicins, khellins and coumarins, which each contain a halogen substituent and a
water solubilization moiety, such as, quaternary ammonium ion or phosphonium Ion.
It is believed that the substitution of halogen atoms, particularly bromine atoms, on
psoralen molecules increases the binding constant of the sensitizer to DNA due to
the hydrophobic nature of bromine. In some embodiments, brominated
photosensitizing agents are used because only one photon of light is required to
activate the brominated sensttizer, whereas two photons are required to effect DNA
crosslinking using non-brominated psoralens. See, for example, U.S. Patent No.
5,418,130.
[00133] A representative method for photochemical inactivation is described in
Example 11, which employs a combination of trioxalen and long wavelength UV
illumination. See, for example, Weightman & Banks (1999) J Viral Methods 81:179-
82 and Gotten et al. (1992) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 89:6094-8.
[00134] To preserve antigenic characteristics of the virus, psoralen inactivation of
live virus can be performed In a non-oxidizing atmosphere. By excluding oxygen and
other oxidizing species from the inactivation medium, degradation of antigens via
irradiation with ultraviolet light is largely prevented. See U.S. Patent No. 5,106,619.
Similarly, antioxidants/quenchers can be used to minimize free radicals and other
reactive oxygen species that are generated by exposure to short wave length UV
light, and to thereby minimize protein damage. See, for example, Marx et al. (1996)
Photochem Photobiol 63:641-6.
[00135] In some embodiments of the invention, viral inactivation comprises
modification of viral genes, whereby the virus is impaired or unable to replication.
For example, a virus can be genetically modified to include one or more
temperature-sensitive mutations in viral essential genes. The virus is produced and
grown in Sf9 or Tn5 cultures at the permissive temperature (e.g., 25°C). When the
virus is introduced into a mammal subject during treatment, the temperature is non-
permissive (e.g., 37°C) such that the temperature-sensitive genes would be poorly
expressed, or the resultant gene products would have impaired function, and the
virus would be crippled.
[00136] Representative temperature-sensitive mutations that could be generated
include genes that are required for viral infection. For example, temperature-
sensitive mutations in the gene encoding PKIP, a protein which interacts with a virus-
encoded protein kinase, and in regulators of viral late gene transcription. At the non-
permissive temperature, virus bearing such mutations show defects in viral infection.
See, for example, McLachlin et al. (1998) Virology 246:379 and Partington et al.
(1990) Virology 175:91.
100137] Virus inactivation can be assessed by demonstrating a loss in ability to
replicate in a native host cell. Infectivity of a sample can be demonstrated using a
standard plaque assay. When suitable methods to demonstrate infectivity of a
particular virus are unknown, assessment of inactivation can rely on demonstrating
inactivation of a model virus having similar biophysical and structural qualities. See
Henzier & Kaiser (1998) Nat Biotechnol 16:1077-9. To render a virus completely
inactive, the inactivation methods used in accordance with the present invention can
include sequential exposure to an inactivating stimulus.
C.2. Carriers
[00138] As described herein, a non-pathogenic virus can comprise a live virus, an
inactivated vims, a viral particle, a viral occlusion body, a viral component, or
combinations thereof. To facilitate delivery of a non-pathogenic virus to cancer cells
in a subject, a composition that is administered to elicit an anti-cancer and/or an anti-
infectious disease response in a subject comprises: (a) an effective amount of a non-
pathogenic virus; and (b) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Where appropriate,
two or more carriers can be used together.
[00139] As used herein, the term "carrier" refers to a compound or a group of
compounds that can be used to transport a vims, vims like particle, viral component,
viral protein to or across a plasma membrane of a cell.
[00140] Representative carriers for delivery of a non-pathogenic virus or viral
component include, for example, liposomes, nanospheres (Manome et ah, 1994;
Saltzman and Fung, 1997), a glycosaminoglycan (e.g., U.S. Patent No. 6,106,866),
fatty acids (e.g.. U.S. Patent No. 5,994,392), fatty emulsions (e.g., U.S. Patent No.
5,651,991), lipids and lipid derivatives (e.g., U.S. Patent No. 6,786,387), collagen
(e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,922,356), polysaccharides and derivatives thereof (e.g., U.S.
Patent No. 5,688,931), nanosuspensions (e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,858,410),
polymeric micelles or conjugates (e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 4,551,482, 5,714,166,
5,510,103, 5,490,840, and 5,855,900), and polysomes (e.g., U.S. Patent No.
5,922,545),
[00141] For delivery of a viral component, the carrier can farther comprise a gene
therapy vector, including, for example, a viral vector or a plasmid vector. Suitable
viral vectors for gene expression include adenoviruses, adeno-associated viruses
(AAVs), retroviruses, pseudotyped retroviruses, herpes viruses, vaccinia viruses,
and Semiliki forest virus. A carrier can also include, for example, a virus like particle,
protein delivery vehicles including, for example, Pro-Ject (Pierce Biotechnology, Inc.)
and Profect (Targeting Systems), and Chariot™ (Active Motif), and the like.
[00142] A carrier can be selected to effect sustained bioavailability of a non-
pathogenic virus to a site in need of treatment. The term "sustained bioavaiiability"
encompasses factors including but not limited to prolonged release of a non-
pathogenic virus from a carrier, metabolic stability of a non-pathogenic virus,
systemic transport of a composition comprising a non-pathogenic virus, and effective
dose of a non-pathogenic virus.
[00143] Representative compositions for sustained bioavailability cart include but are
not limited to polymer matrices, including swelling and biodegradable polymer
matrices, (U.S. Patent Nos. 6,335,035; 6,312,713; 6,296,842; 6,287,587; 6,267,981;
6.262,127; and 6.221,958), polymer-coated microparticles (U.S. Patent Nos.
6,120,787 and 6,090,925) a polyol;oil suspension (U.S. Patent No. 6,245,740),
porous particles (U.S. Patent No. 6,238,705), latex/wax coated granules (U.S. Patent
No. 6,238,704), chitosan microcapsules, and microsphere emulsions (U.S. Patent
No. 6,190,700).
C.3. Formulation, Dose and Administration
[00144] Suitable formulations for administration of a composition of the invention to a
subject include aqueous and non-aqueous sterile injection solutions which can
contain anti-oxidants, buffers, bacteriostats, antibacterial and antifungal agents (e.g.,
parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, ascorbic acid, an thimerosal), solutes that render
the formulation isotonic with the bodily fluids of the intended recipient (e.g., sugars,
salts, and polyalcohols), suspending agents and thickening agents. The
formulations can be presented in unit-dose or multi-dose containers, for example
sealed ampoules and vials, and can be stored in a frozen or freeze-dried
(lyophilized) condition requiring only the addition of sterile liquid carrier immediately
prior to use.
[00145] Compositions useful for injection into a host include sterile aqueous
solutions or dispersions, and sterile powder for the preparation of sterile injectable
solutions or dispersions. An injectable composition should be fluid to the extent that
administration via a syringe is readily performed. Suitable solvents include water,
ethanol, polyol (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol, and liquid polyethylene glycol), and
mixtures thereof. Fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating
such as lecithin and/or by minimization of particle size.
[00146] A non-pathogenic virus of the present invention can be administered to a
subject intratumorally, peritumorally, systemically, parenterally (e.g.. intravenous
injection, intra-muscular injection, intra-arterial injection, and infusion techniques),
orally, transdermally (topically), intranasally (inhalation), and intramucosally. A
delivery method is selected based on considerations such as the type of the type of
carrier or vector, therapeutic efficacy of the composition, location of target area, and
the condition to be treated.
[00147] As used herein, the term "protein delivery vehicle" refers to an agent(s) that
facilitates the transport of a protein to or across the membrane of a cell.
[00148] In some embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus is administered by direct
injection into a tumor or into a peritumor site. The term "peritumor site" refers to a
site less than about 15 cm from an outer edge of a tumor, less than about 10 cm
from an outer edge of a tumor, less than about 5 cm from an outer edge of a tumor,
less than about 1 cm from an outer edge of a tumor, or less than about 0.1 cm from
an outer edge of a tumor. A non-pathogenic virus of the invention can be delivered
to one or more tumor and/or peritumor sites. !n some embodiments, a non-
pathogenic virus of the invention is administered at multiple sites within a tumor
and/or surrounding a tumor.
[00149] In some embodiments, wherein the cancer is a non-neoplastic growth a non-
pathogenic virus is administered at a lesional or perilesional site. The term
"perilesional site" refers to a site less than about 15 cm from an outer edge of a non-
neoplastic growth, less than about 10 cm from an outer edge of a non-neoplastic
growth, less than about 5 cm from an outer edge of a non-neoplastic growth, less
than about 1 cm from an outer edge of a non-neoplastic growth, or less than about
0.1 cm from an outer edge of a non-neoplastic growth. A non-pathogenic virus of the
invention can be delivered to one or more lesional and/or perilesional sites. In some
embodiments, a non-pathogenic virus of the invention Is administered at multiple
sites within a non-neoplastic growth and/or surrounding a non-neoplastic growth.
[00150] In some embodiments, wherein the compositions are being used to treat an
infectious disease, a non-pathogenic virus is administered systemically. In some
embodiments a non-pathogenic virus is administered locally to affected regions.
[001S1] The present invention provides that an effective amount of a non-pathogenic
virus is administered to a subject. The term "effective amount" is used herein to
describe an amount of a non-pathogenic virus sufficient to elicit anti-cancer activity,
including, for example, an anti-tumor activity and/or an anti-non-neoplastic growth
activity. As disclosed herein, representative anti-cancer activities include but are not
limited to cancer cell cytolysis, inhibition of cancer growth, inhibition of cancer
metastasis, and/or cancer resistance. In some embodiments, an "effective amount"
refers to the amount of a therapeutic that is effective in an in vitro assay in inhibiting
cancer growth, inhibiting metastasis, inhibiting cancer resistance, inducing cell
cytolysis, inducing cell death, and the like. In some embodiments, an "effective
amount" inhibits cancer growth, inhibits metastasis, inhibits cancer resistance,
induces cell cytolysis, induces cell death, or combinations thereof at least 10%, at
least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at
least 80%, at least 90%, at least 2-fo!d, at least 5-fold, at least 10-fold, or at least
100-fold.'
[00152] The term "effective amount" is used herein to describe an amount of a non-
pathogenic virus sufficient to elicit anti-infectious disease activity. In some
embodiments, an "effective amount" inhibits viral replication at least 10%, at least
20%, at least 30%. at least 40%, at least 50%, .at least 60%, at least 70%, at least
80%, at least 90%, at least 2-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 10-fold, or at least 100-fold,
compared to a control.
[00153] Actual dosage levels of active ingredients in a therapeutic composition of
the invention can be varied so as to administer an amount of the composition that is
effective to achieve the desired therapeutic response for a particular subject.
Administration regimens can also be varied as required to elicit the desired activity.
A single injection or multiple injections can be used. The selected dosage level and
regimen will depend upon a variety of factors including the activity of the therapeutic
composition, formulation, the route of administration, combination with other drugs or
treatments, the disease or disorder to be treated, and the physical condition and
prior medical history of the subject being treated. Determination and adjustment of
an effective amount or dose, as well as evaluation of when and how to make such
adjustments, are known to those of ordinary skill in the art of medicine.
[00154] The dose of a non-pathogenic virus can be calculated by a variety of
methods. For a live non-pathogenic virus the dose can be calculated as plaque-
forming units. For an inactive non-pathogenic virus, which does not form plaques,
the amount of virus administered to an individual can be measured in terms of PFU
equivalents. As used herein, the term "PFU equivalent" refers to a quantity of non-
pathogenic virus. A PFU equivalent is defined as the amount of virus resulting after
1 PFU of a virus is inactivated.
[00155] Another method of determining quantity of virus to be administered is based
on the number of viral particles present in a sample. The particles can be counted
by any method including, for example, electron microscopy. The non-pathogenic
virus, including inactivated virus, can also be administered using an amount
extrapolated from an amount effective in an in vitro assay. The in vitro assay can be
any assay known to those skilled in the art for measuring anti-cancer or anti-
infectious disease activity, including, but not limited to, assays that measures
cytotoxicity, cell death, ability of cells to grow in soft-agar, and the like. In some
embodiments, the dose is the amount that increases cytotoxicity or cell death by at
least 20%, at (east 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at
least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99%, relative to a control. In some embodiments,
the does is the amount of virus that decreases the ability of cells to grow in soft-agar
by at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%,
at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99%, relative to a control.
[00156] For additional guidance regarding formulation, dose and administration
regimen, see Berkow et al. (1997) The Merck Manual of Medical Information, Home
ed. Merck Research Laboratories, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey; Goodman et al.
(1996) Goodman & Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 9th ed,
McGraw-Hill Health Professions Division, New York; Ebadi (1998) CRC Desk
Reference of Clinical Pharmacology. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida; Katzung
(2001) Basic & .Clinical Pharmacology. 8th ed. Lange Medical Books/McGraw-Hill
Medical Pub. Division, New York; Remington et al. (1975) Remington's
Pharmaceutical Sciences. 15th ed. Mack Pub. Co., Easton, Pennsylvania; Speight et
al. (1997) Avery's Drug Treatment: A Guide to the Properties. Choice. Therapeutic
Use and Economic Value of Drugs in Disease Management. 4th ed. Adis
International, Auckland / Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
[00157] In some embodiments, compositions are tested in vitro or in vivo assays in
order to determine an "effective amount." For example, in methods disclosed herein
for causing cell death, assays suitable include, without limitation, in vitro cell viability
assays, including the TUNEL assay or other fluorescent based assays such as Cell-
Titer Blue (Promega Corp); assays that monitor DNA fragmentation; and cytochrome
C release assays, soft-agar growth assays, contact inhibition assays, and tumor
growth in nude mice; assays comprising injecting a test animal with a tumor
monitoring cancer remission following administration of the compositions of the
present Invention and transgenic mice assays wherein the transgenic mice have
tumors and cancer remission is monitored; the in vivo assay disclosed herein; in vitro
assays measuring cell movement across a barrier, such as Matrigel barrier (see, for
example, Cancer Res. 2003 Aug 1;63(15):4632-40; Am J Chin Med. 2003;31 (2):235-
46); in vitro Invasiveness and in vivo Metastasis Assays discussed in Yang et al.,
(Cancer Res. 61,5284-5288, July 1,2001).
[00158] The compositions of the present invention comprising a non-pathogenic
virus may further comprise one or more adjuvants which may be used to enhance
the effectiveness of the pharmaceutical compositions. Such adjuvants include, but
are not limited to: (1) aluminum salts (alum), such as aluminum hydroxide, aluminum
phosphate, aluminum sulfate, etc.; (2) oil-in-water emulsion formulations (with or
without other specific immunostimulating agents such as muramyl peptides (see
below) or bacterial cell wall components), such as for example (a) MF59
(International Publication Mo. WO 90/14837), containing 5% Squalene, 0.5% Tween
80, and 0.5% Span 85 (optionally containing various amounts of MTP-PE (see
below), although not required) formulated into submicron particles using a
microfluidizer such as Model 110Y microfluidizer (Microfluidics, Newton, Mass.), (b)
SAF, containing 10% Squalane, 0.4% Tween 80,.S% pluronio-blocked polymer L121,
and thr-MDP (see below) either micrafluidized into a submicron emulsion or vortexed
to generate a larger particle size emulsion, and (c) Ribi™. adjuvant system (RAS),
(Ribi Immunochem, Hamilton, Mont.) containing 2% Squalene, 0.2% Tween 80, and
one or more bacterial cell wall components from the group consisting of
monophosphorylipid A (MPL), trehalose dimycolate (TDM), and cell wall skeleton
(CWS), preferably MPL+CWS (Detox™) (for a further discussion of suitable
submicron oil-in-water emulsions for use herein, see International Publication No.
WO 99/30739, published Jun. 24, 1999); (3) saponin adjuvants, such as Stimulon™
(Cambridge Bioscience, Worcester, Mass.) may be used or particle generated
therefrom such as ISCOMs (immunostimulating complexes); (4) Complete Freunds
Adjuvant (CFA) and Incomplete Freunds Adjuvant (IFA); (5) cytoklnes, such as
interleukins (IL-1, IL-2, etc.), macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF), tumor
necrosis factor (TNF), etc.; (6) detoxified mutants of a bacterial ADP-ribosylating
toxin such as a cholera toxin (CT), a pertussis toxin (PT), or an E. coli heat-labile
toxin (LT), particularly LT-K63 (where lysine is substituted for the wild-type amino
acid at position 63) LT-R72 (where arginlne is substituted for the wild-type amino
acid at position 72), CT-S109 (where serine is substituted for the wild-type amino
acid at position 109), adjuvants derived from the CpG family of molecules, CpG
dinucleotides and synthetic oligonucleotides which comprise CpG motifs (see, e.g.,
Krieg et al., Nature, 374:546 (1995) and Davis et al., J. Immunol., 160:870-876
(1998)) and PT-K9/G129 (where lysine is substituted for the wild-type amino acid at
position 9 and glycine substituted at position 129) (see, e.g., International Publication
Nos. WO93/13202 and WO92/19265); and (7) other substances that act as
immunostimulating agents to enhance the effectiveness of the composition.
[00159] Muramyl peptides Include, but are not limited to, N-acetyl-muramyl-L-
threonyl-D-isoglutamine (thr-MDP), N-acteyl-normuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isogluatme (nor-
MDP), N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isogluatminyl-L-a(anine-2-(1'-2'-dipahitoyl-sn-
glycero-3-huydroxyphosphoryloxy)-ethylamine (MTP-PE), etc
[00160] International Publication Mo. WO 98/50071 describes the use of viral-like
particles (VLPs) as adjuvants to enhance immune responses of antigens
administered with the VLPs. St Clair et al. describe the use of protein crystals to
enhance humoral and cellular responses. (St. Clair, N. et al, Applied Biol. Sci.,
96:9469-9474,1999).
[00161] It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that following a review of
the present disclosure, the therapeutic methods for administration of a non-
pathogenic virus can be variably performed to elicit an anti-cancer response and/or
an anti-infectious disease.response.
[00162] In accordance with long-standing convention, the terms "a," "an," and the"
are used to refer to one or more. The term "about", as used herein when referring to
a measurable value, for example a peritumoral or perilesional distance, is meant to
encompass variations of ±20% or ±10%, ±5%, ±1%, or +0.1% from the specified
amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform a disclosed method or
otherwise cany out the present invention. In some embodiments "about" is meant to
encompass variations of ±10% from the specified amount.
D1. Predicting In vivo Activity
[00163] Predicting in vivo anti-tumor activity is often difficult and haphazard. The
present invention provides methods for predicting in vivo anti-tumor activity. In
some embodiments, the method comprises contacting a compound with tumor cells
and peripheral blood mononuclear cells and measuring cell death of the tumor cells.
In some embodiments, the compound is a non-pathogenic virus or a non-pathogenic
insect-specific virus. Any method can be used to measure cell death including, for
example, measuring apoptosis, necrosis, cell viability, and the like. Examples of
tumor cells that can be used, include but are not limited to, are lung cancer cells (e.g.
A549 cells, 3LL-HM cells), breast cancer cells (e.g. 4T1 cells; MT901 cells; MAT Bill
cells), prostate cancer cells, colon cancer cells, skin cancer cells (e.g, B16
melanoma cells), pancreas cancer cells, liver cancer ceils, brain cancer cells, bone
cancer cells (e.g. MG-63 cells), stomach cancer cells, or esophageal cancer cells,
among others.
[00164] E.1 Release Assays
[00165] Prior to release to the public of medicaments, governmental agencies, for
example, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), frequently require that stringent
quality control be performed on such medicaments to ensure that the medicaments
comprise the same ingredients as were contained in medicaments approved by that
or other governmental agencies. Often, such quality control is performed using
release assays—assays to ensure the medicaments meet regulatory guidelines.
[00166] The present invention provides processes for preparing anti-cancer and anti-
infectious disease compositions for release, in some embodiments the compositions
comprise one or more non-pathogenic viruses. In some embodiments the non-
pathogenic virus is an Autographa califomica nucleopolyhedrosis virus. In some
embodiments the non-pathogenic virus comprises an inactivated virus, a viral
particle, a virosome, a Virus Like Particle, a viral occlusion body, or a viral
component. In some embodiments the processes comprise performing release
assays on the compositions to ensure that the safety, toxicity and efficacy of the
compositions meet proscribed guidelines.
[00167] The processes for preparing anti-cancer and anti-infectious disease
compositions comprise exposing the composition to a first inactivator effective to
inactivate an active virus, exposing the composition to a second inactivator effective
to inactivate an active virus, combining the composition with one or more
pharmaceutically acceptable earners or excipients, and confirming the inactivity of
the inactivated virus, viral particle, virosome, Virus Like Particles, viral occlusion
body, or viral component in an in vitro assay. In some embodiments the
confirmation of the inactivity of said virus, viral particle, virosome, Virus Like
Particles, viral occlusion body, or viral component is performed after each of the
inactivating steps.
[00168] In some embodiments the processes further comprise collecting a random
portion of the composition for analysis of one or more of safety, efficacy, or toxicity.
In some embodiments the safety and/or efficacy and/or efficacy of the random
portion is compared to the safety and/or efficacy and/or efficacy of a second anti-
cancer or anti-infectious disease composition. The comparison data is generated for
review prior to release.
[00169] In some embodiments the inactivity of the inactivated virus, viral particle,
virosome. Virus Like Particles, viral occlusion body, or viral component is confirmed
by plaque formation assay. In some embodiments the plaque formation assay is
performed with Sf9 cells. In some embodiments the process further comprises
counting the inactivated virus, viral particle, virosome, Virus Like Particles, viral
occlusion body, or viral component. Counting may be performed by any method
known to those of skill in the art. In some embodiments counting is performed using
EM.
[00170] The following examples are meant to illustrate the invention and are not to
be construed to limit the invention in anyway. Those skilled in the art will recognize
modifications that are within trie spirit and scope of the invention.
Examples
[00171] Example 1. Preparation of Recombinant Baculovirus
[00172] The full-length sequence encoding human CCL21 (GenBank Accession No.
NM 002989) was cloned into the baculovirus transfer vector pVL1392 (Pharmingen
of San Diego, California) and co-transfected with BACULOGOLD® WT genomic
DNA (Pharmingen of San Diego, California) using methods recommended by the
vendor. The recombinant baculovirus obtained from this procedure was subcloned
by plaque-purification on Sf9 insect ceils to yield several isolates expressing human
CCL21. A clone was selected for its exceptional expression characteristics
compared to the original virus. Amplification of this baculovirus isolate was
performed at low multiplicity of infection (MOI) to generate high-titer, low passage
stock for protein production. The baculovirus expressing human CCL21 was
designated BV422. Additional recombinant baculovirus were similarly prepared. For
example, baculovirus expressing intracellular Raf protein was prepared and
designated BV762.
[00173] Protein production and budded baculovirus production involved infection of
suspended Trichoplusia ni (Tn5) cells in protein-free media at multiplicity of infection
(MOI) of 2-10 for 48 hours. BV422 culture supematants, which included the
recombinantly expressed CCL21, were collected by centrifugation, clarified by
filtration and prepared for column purification.
[00174] Example 2. Tumor Growth Inhibition in an Animal Model of Lung
Cancer
[00175] C57BL/6 mice at 9-11 weeks of age were allowed to acclimate for a
minimum of 7 days prior to inoculation with tumor cells. Mice were inoculated s.c. at
the right flank with 2 X 105 earty passage ( Tumor size was measured twice per week. When tumors reached 60-100 mm3
(typically 7 days after tumor inoculation), mice were randomized into groups.
Baculovirus-expressed CCL21 was administered intratumoraliy to tumor-bearing
mice. Dose and administration regimens were varied to optimize tumor inhibition.
When tumor volume in any group reached 3000 mm3 (typically 33-35 days after
inoculation in mice of the control group), mice were sacrificed.
[00176] As shown in Figure 1, intratumoral administration of baculovirus-expressed
CCL21 resulted in growth delay of 3LL tumors. CCL21 dose was optimized to
achieve complete inhibition of tumor growth. An administration regimen that
included 2 or 3 injections at a relatively higher dose showed similar efficacy when
compared to an administration regimen that included 6 injections at a relatively lower
dose. Some tumor inhibition was also seen using a single dose.
[00177] Example 3. Tumor Growth Inhibition in an Animal Model of Breast
Cancer
[00178] Balb/c mice at 9-11 weeks of age were allowed to acclimate for a minimum
of 7 days prior to inoculation with tumor cells. Mice were inoculated s.c. at: the right
flank with 2 X 105 4T1 cells. Tumor size was measured twice per week. When
tumors reached 50-100 mm3 (typically 7 days after tumor inoculation), mice were
randomized into groups. Baculovjrus was administered intratumoraliy to tumor-
bearing mice. Dose was varied to determine an optimal effective dose. When tumor
volume in any group reached 3000 mm3 (typically.33-35 days after inoculation in
mice of the control group), the mice were sacrificed. As shown in Figure 2,
intratumoral administration of CCL21 resulted in growth delay of 4T1 tumors.
[00179] Example 4. Tumor Growth Inhibition in a Melanoma Model
[00180] The mouse melanoma cell line, B16-BL6, is used to establish subcutaneous
tumors in 6-8 week old pink-skinned female BDF-1 mice (Charles River Laboratories
of Boston, Massachusetts). To produce cutaneous tumors, 106 B16-BL6 cells in 0.2
ml media are injected into the upper back region of 6-6 week old female BDF-1 mice
on day 0. Cell viability is assessed using trypan blue exclusion before and after cell
injection. The number of dead cells before injection is typically not more than 10% of
the total number of cells. By day 6, tumors are typically 5-10 mm in diameter.
[00181] Baculovirus-expressed CCL21 are prepared as described in Example 1.
Baculovirus are administered subcutaneously, at a site approximately 3 mm away
from each tumor, on days 3 and 4. Tumor volume is measured daily for three
weeks. Mice are. sacrificed when tumor volume reaches 4000 mm3.
[00182] Example 5. Resistance to Tumor Re-challenge
[001831 Mice bearing tumors were prepared and treated with Baculovirus as
described above. Mice having complete tumor regression or in mice that did not
have complete tumor regression had their tumors surgically removed 2 days after the
final dose of Baculovirus were subjected to tumor rechallenge. Mice were
anesthetized using 200 ml ketamine/xylazine mixture (4:1 ketaminetxylazine diluted
10-fold in phosphate-buffered saline) injected intnaperitoneally, the tumor was
resected, and the wound was closed with staples. One to four days following tumor
resection, mice were rechallenged by subcutaneous administration of 2 X 105 4T1
cells at a site other than the original tumor site. Rechallenge tumor volume was
measured twice per week. In mice having complete tumor regression, the mice were
regrouped evenly into two groups. One group was rechallenged with the same
tumor cells at the opposite side of flank at 1X105 cells per mouse. The other group
was challenged with different syngeneic tumor cells (B16F10) at the left flank at
1X105 cells per mouse. Tumor development on the re-challenged site was
monitored. Mice treated with Baculovirus were able to resist rechallenge with 3LL-.
HM tumor cells, but were not resistant to the different syngeneic tumor cells.
[00184] Example 6. Inhibition of Tumor Metastases
[00185] Mice bearing tumors were prepared and treated with baculovirus as
described in Example 3. Mice were sacrificed when the control group showed signs
of severe sickness due to lung metastases. Typical indicators include laborious
breathing, greasy fur. and weight loss. The lungs were harvested and preserved in
Buoin's solution. The presence of lung metastases was determined. Figure 3 shows
that baculovirus expressed CCL21 significantly inhibited tumor metastasis.
[00186] Example 7. Anti-Tumor Activity of Baculovirus
[00187] The anti-tumor activity of baculovirus-expressed hCCL21, as described in
Examples 2-3 and 5-6, is attributable to baculovirus rather than to CCL21., As shown
in Figure 6, filtered preparations of baculovirus-expressed CCL21 were insufficient to
effect tumor remission in a 3LL tumor model. The concentration of CCL21 in any
given sample was unchanged by filtration. Some but not all preparations of
baculovirus-expressed CCL21 were similarly ineffective.
[00188] In contrast to the variability observed in vivo, all CCL21 preparations were
sufficient to induce chemotaxis of lymphocytes in vitro. See Table 1 and Figure 7.
These results suggest that a high molecular'weight contaminating substance in
baculovirus-expressed CCL21 was required for robust anti-tumor activity, but not for
CCL21-induced chemotaxis in vitro.
[00189] Baculovirus was found to be a contaminant of baculovirus-expnessed CCL21
prepared as described in Example 1. Baculovirus-expressed CCL21 was used to
prepare a Western Blot, which was probed with an antibody that specifically
recognizes the baculoviral protein gp64. As shown in Figure 8, gp64 was detected in
baculovirus-expressed CCL21 preparations, in addition, lots of baculovirus-
expressed CCL21 that showed anti-tumor activity had relatively high titers of live
virus, while inactive lots had relatively lower titers of live virus (Table 2).
Table 2. Viral Titer Correlates with Anti-Tumor Activity of Baculovirus-
Expressed CCL21 Preparations
[00190] Figure 9 shows that intratumoral injection of purified live baculovirus, in the
absence of CCL21, and at titers comparable to those seen in contaminated CCL21
preparations, inhibits tumor growth as effectively as the baculovirus-contaminated
CCL21 preparations.
[00191] Example 8. Baculovirus-induced Cytotoxicity In vitro
[00192] Baculovirus were prepared as described in Example 1. Uninfected Sf9 cells
were used as a control. Following centrifugation, both the supematants and cellular
pellets were recovered. For performance of the cytotoxicity assay, the samples were
diluted 1:11 in growth media to an initial virus tfter of 5 X106 pfu/ml.
[00193] A549 human epithelial lung cells were seeded in triplicate into 96-well tissue
culture, plates and incubated with serial dilutions of supernatant or cells from
baculovirus-infected or uninfected Sf9 cells. After 24 hours, the media were
removed, and the cells were washed extensively with fresh media. Cell viability was
determined 24 to 45 hours later by crystal violet staining, which was quantified by
spectroscopy.
[00194] As shown in Figure 10A, the cell pellet samples induced a greater cytotoxic
response than the supernatant samples. Supernatant collected from uninfected cells
did not induce cytotoxicity. Figure 10B shows that the cytotoxic response was
significantly reduced when the baculovirus-expressed supernatant was filtered
through a 0.2 jjm filter (to remove contaminating baculovirus), similar to the toss of in
vivo response. The disclosed in vitro cytotoxicity can be used to predict in vivo anti-
cancer activity. See also Figure 13.
[00195] Example 9. Baculovirus Activates Dendritic Cell Maturation
[00196] Addition of wild type baculovirus to dendritic cell (DC) cultures induced their
maturation, as evidenced by increased cell surface expression of activation markers.
As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, baculovirus activates mouse bone marrow-
derived DCs and human monocyte-derived DCs.
[00197] Mouse DCs were prepared from bone marrow according to standard
methods. Briefly, bone marrow was isolated from female BaJb/c or C57BI/6 mice,
6-8 weeks old, (Charles River Laboratories of Holister, California) and frozen (-8O0C)
in heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum supplemented with 10% cell-culture grade
dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at a density of 2 X 107 cells/ml. Frozen cell aliquots were
rapidly thawed and washed to remove DMSO. Cells were plated in 150 mm
suspension culture dishes containing 20 ml supplemented RPMl media (Sigma-
Aldrich of St. Louis, Missouri) containing 200 U/ml murine GM-CSF (PreproTech of
Rocky Hill, New Jersey). On day 3 of culture, cells were again supplemented with
murine GM-CSF, and on day 5, one-half of the culture volume was centrifuged to
replace fresh medium containing GM-CSF. BMDC were harvested by gentie
pipetting.
[00198] Baculovirus and other control materials were added to the media on day 6.
Cells were incubated an additional 18 hours prior to analysis of cells or supematants.
BMDC were analyzed for cell surface markers by FACS and were characterized as
immature on day 6 prior to addition of stimuli by detection of markers for DC
immaturity, including CD11c, CD11b, H-2Kd, I-Ad(low), CD80(low)r and CD86(low).
Following overnight incubation with various stimuli, cells were washed and double-
stained using anti-CD11c and anti-CD86 or anti-I-A antibodies and then analyzed by
flow cytometry. Cells were gated on the live CD11c+ population. Stimulation is
expressed as the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) divided by MFI from stained
cetls treated only with GM-CSF. Figure 11A shows that the expression of the DC
activation marker CD86 and MHC class II (detected using anti-l-A antibodies) was
increased in response to baculovirus. The levels of CD80 and CD40 were similarly
elevated in response to baculovirus.
[00199] Human DC were derived from peripheral blood monocytes purified from the
buffy coats of healthy volunteers by using anti-CDi4 antibody-coated magnetic
beads (Miltenyi Biotec of Auburn, California). Immature DC were harvested after 3-4
days of culture with interleukin-4 and GM-CSF (each 1000 U/ml; available from
PreproTech of Rocky Hill, New Jersey). Cultures were routinely >90% CD 1a positive
by FACS (Phanmingen of San Diego, California). FACS analysis of DC activation
markers was assessed by gating on live CD1a+ cells. Figure 11B shows that
baculovirus induced elevated levels of CD86 and HLA-DR++.
[00200] Example 10. Baculovirus Activates CTL Induction In vivo
[00201] Immunization of mice with baculovirus and a soluble protein antigen (HIV
p24) induced a robust, antigen-specific CTL response. Spleens from immunized
mice were harvested 2 weeks following the third immunization. Individual spleens
were combined such that 5 spleens were included in each sample. Spleen cells
from immunized mice were cultured in a 24-well dish at 5 X 106 ceils per well. Of
these cells, 1 x 106 cells were sensitized with: (1) a synthetic p7g peptide, which is
an H-2Kd restricted CTL epitope correspcfnding to amino acids 199-208 of H|V-
1SF2p24gag; and (2) a pGagb peptide, which is an H-2Db restricted CTL epitope
corresponding to amino acids 390-398 of HIV-1se2p55gag. The peptides were used
at a concentration of 10mM for 1 hour at 37°C. Splenocytes were then washed and
co-cultured with the remaining 4 X 108 untreated cells. The splenocytes were
stimulated as a bulk culture in 2 ml of splenocyte culture medium: RPMI 1640
(Sigma-Aldrich of St. Louis, Missouri) with 100 mM L-glutamine (Gibco of Grand
island, New York) and a-Mem (Minimum Essential medium Alpha Medium with L-
glutamine, deoxyrobonucleosides or ribonudeosides) (1:1), supplemented with 10%
heat inactivated fetal calf serum (Hyclone of Logan, Utah), inactivated in a 56°C
water bath for 30 minutes in 100 U/ml penicillin, 10 mg/ml streptomycin, 10 ml/L of
100mM sodium pyruvate and 50mM 2-mercaptoethanol. In addition, 5% Rat T-Stim
IL2 (Rat T-Stim: Collaborative Biomedical Products of Bedford, Massachusetts) was
used as a source of IL2 and was added to the culture media just before the cells
were cultured.
[00202] After a stimulation period of 6-7 days, splenocytes were collected and used
as effectors in a chromium release assay. Approximately 1 X 106 SV/Balb or MC57
target oefls were incubated in 200 ml of medium containing 50 mCi of 51 Cr and with
the correct peptide p7g, or a mismatched cell-target pair as the negative control, at a
concentration of 1mM for 60 minutes and washed. Effector cells were cultured with 5
x 103 target cells at various effector to target ratios in 200 ml of culture medium in 96-
well round or V-bottom tissue culture plates for 4 hours. The average counts per
minute from duplicate wells was used to calculate percent specific release. Figure
12 shows that baculovirus induced cytolytic T cell responses.
[00203] Example 11. Photochemical Inactivation of Baculovirus
[00204] Two liter suspension cultures of Trichoplusia ni (Tn) cells are infected with
baculovirus. Following incubation for 3 days at 28*C the infected cell suspension is
harvested and clarified by centrifugation at 800 X g for 10 minutes. The liter of
baculovirus in the harvested medium was determined by plaque assay in
Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf) cells, for example as described by King & Possee (1992)
The Baculovirus Expression System: A Laboratory Manual. Chapman & Hall,
London.
[00205] A stock solution of triaxalen is prepared at a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml in
dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Trioxalen is added to the infected ceil suspension at a
concentration of about 5-10 mg/ml and dispersed within the cell suspension by gentle
shaking. The cell suspension is then poured into a seamless', stainless steel tray
(e.g., about 1 cm in depth) and placed on a rotating platform. A long wavelength
(365 nm, 6W) UV lamp is placed directly above the tray at a distance of 1 cm from
the liquid surface. Exposure to UV illumination is allowed to proceed for about 15
minutes, or for a period sufficient for virus inactivatjon.
[00206] To assess virus inactivation, the trioxalen/UV inactivated samples are
titrated on insect cells. For example, aliquots are taken from the cell suspension,
serially diluted, and used to inoculate Sf9 cell cultures. The medium is changed at
about 16 hours post inoculation to minimize DMSO-induced cytotoxicity. The
cultures are examined microscopically to assess cellular pathology 7 days post
inoculation and, if negative, are passaged twice more to confirm virus inactivation.
The cultures are also examined to identify cellular cytotoxicity.
[00207] Example 12. in vitro Assay Predicts In vivo Anti-Tumor Efficacy
[00208] Various lots of CCL21 were tested both in a cytotoxicity assay and in an in
vivo mouse tumor model, both of which are described below. Cytotoxicity activity
coefficient is described below. Active and inactive lots were determined by analysis
of tumor size at the end of the in vivo experiment.
[00209] Induced PBMC Cytotoxic Assay
[00210] The induced PBMC Cytotoxic Assay measures the cytotoxic (or cytostatic)
response of PBMCs induced by certain activating substances such as cytoktnes (IL-
2 or b-IFN) or baculovirus (BV) against an adherent target cell line (A549 or MG-63
cells), and uses a co-culture technique of effector cells (PBMCs) and target cells.
After an incubation period the target cell viability is quantified by Alamar blue
staining. Components used in the assay include:
Growth Medium (GM): (Eagle's MEM with Earie's salts and 2.2 g/L sodium
bicarbonate, Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS), L-Glutamine, penicillin, and streptomycin):
MEM................................................................................................................500 ml
FBS..................................................................................................................50 ml
L-Glutamine (200 mM)....................................................................................5 ml
Penicillin (10,000 U/ml)/streptomycin (10,000 mg/ml)/mix............................ 5 ml
Growth / Assay Medium (GAM): (RPMI 1640 w/o pH indicator, Fetal Bovine Serum
(FBS), L-Glutamine):
RPMM640........................................................................................................500 ml
FBS...................................................................................................................50 ml
L-Glutamine (200 mM).................................................................................... 5 ml
PBMC Prep Medium: (RPMl 1640 w/o pH indicator, 0.5% BSA fraction V):
RPMl 1640........................................................................................................500 ml
BSA (7.5% BSA solution)..................................................................................37 ml
STV Solution: (Saline A, trypsin, versene (Na4 EDTA)):.
NaCI.................................................................................................................8.00 g
KCI...................................................................................................................0.40 g
D-glucose.........................................................................................................1.00 g
NaHCO3...........................................................................................................0.58 g
Trypsin 1:250......................."............................................................................0.50 g
Na,EDTA.........................................................................................................0.20 g
0.5% phenol red...............................................................................................0.9 ml
Glass distilled water.........................................................................................q.s. to
1.0 L
Phosphate Buffered Saline: (PBS, calcium-free and magnesium-free).
KG!...................................................................................................................0.2 g
NaCI.................................................................................................................8.0 g
KH2PO4............................................................................................................0.2 g
Na2HPO4...........................................................................................................1.14g
Glass distilled water..........................................................................................q.s.to
1.0 L
Alamar Blue staining media
RPMI 1640 with 10% Alamar blue (from Biosource International)
[00211] A549 Cells
[00212] A549 human lung carcinoma cells were obtained from American Type
Culture Collection at passage 76 (ATCC CCL 185). Cells were expanded and stocks
frozen preserved at low passage. A Master stock of A549 cells was frozen and
preserved in liquid nitrogen.
[00213] A549 Working Culture
[00214] A549 cells grow as an adherent monolayer and must be detached with a
trypsln solution for subculture. Media was removed from each T-175 flask. The
monolayers were washed twice with 10 to 15 ml PBS. Three to 5 ml STV were
added to each flask. Each flask was then incubated for 3 to 4 minutes or until cells
started to detach. Flasks were gently tapped to detach cells. Five ml of Growth
Medium was added to each flask and cells were gently triturated with a pipette to
prepare a single cell suspension. Cells were transferred to a 50 ml centrifuge tube
containing fresh Growth medium and gently mixed. Various proportions (1:5,1:10 or
1: 20, for 2. 3. and 4 day cultures respectively) of cell mixture were distributed into
T175 culture flasks containing 40 ±/- 5 ml of fresh Growth Medium warmed to 37ftC.
[00215] MG-63 Cells
[00216] The MG-63 human osteosarcoma cell line was obtained from the American
Type Culture Collection (ATCC CRL-1427). A master stock of MG-63 cells was
frozen and preserved in liquid nitrogen.
[00217] MG-63 Working Culture
[00218] Working Stock cultures were split every 3 or 4 days. Confluent monolayers
were split 1:6 on a 3 day schedule and 1:8 on a 4 day schedule.
[00219] Subculture procedure:
[00220] MG-63 cells grow as an adherent monolayer and must be detached with a
trypsin solution for subculture. Media is aspirated from each T-175 flask and the
monolayer washed twice with 10 to 15 ml PBS. Four ± 0.1 ml STV was added to
each flask and then flasks then incubated at 37" ±2OC, 5 ±1 % CO2, for 3 to 5 minutes
until cells start to detach. Flasks were gently tapped to detach cells.
[00221] Cells were pipetted up and down in STV to obtain a uniform suspension and
then transferred to a 50 ml centrifuge tube containing fresh Growth medium and
gently mixed. Proportions (1:6 or 1:8) of cell mixture were dispensed into culture
flasks containing 40 ±/-5 ml of fresh Growth medium warmed to 37oC.
[00222] PBMC Cells
[00223] PBMCs were obtained from unanimous donors.
[00224] Preparation of A549 or MG-63 cells for PBMC Induced Cytotoxlc Assay
[00225] Media was removed from the A549 or MG-63 Working Culture T-175 flask.
The monolayers were washed twice with 10 to 15 ml PBS. Three to 5 ml STV were
added to each flask and the flasks were then incubated for 5 minutes or until cells
started to detach. Flasks were gently tapped to detach cells. Five ml of Growth
Medium were added to each flask and cells gently triturated with a pipette to prepare
a single cell suspension. Cells were transferred to a 50 ml conical tube and an
additional 25m! Growth Media was added. The tube was inverted to mix cells,
yielding a cell concentrate. Cell density was determined in the cell concentrate.
Briefly, a 1:3 dilution of the cell suspension was counted using a model Z1 Coulter
counter. For A549 cells the lower threshold of the counter was set to 8 microns and
for MG-63 cells set to 8 microns.
[00226] For A549 cells the cells were concentrated to 50,000 cells/ml in Growth
Assay Medium. For MG-63 cells the cells were concentrated to 65,000 cells/ml in
Growth Assay Medium. The total number of cells needed was calculated by
multiplying the total volume of media needed by the seeding density. The volume of
cell concentrate needed (C) was calculated by dividing the total number of cells
needed by the cell density of concentrate. The volume of additional growth/assay
media needed (GAM) was calculated by subtracting the volume of cell concentrate
from the volume of media needed. The proper seeding density of target cells used
for PBMC induced cytotoxic assay was determined by combining (C) and (GAM).
[00227] The ceil suspension was prepared in a disposable Erlenmeyer flask or
tissue culture glassware. Cells were added to assay plates within 15 minutes. One
hundred ml of the suspension (5000 cells / well for A649 cells and 6500 cells / well for
MG-63 cells) were added to each well. The plates were incubated with lids for 18 to
24 hours in a humidified 37° ±2°C, 5 ±0.5% CO2 incubator.
[00228] Initial Sample Preparation and Serial dilutions in transfer plates
[00229] Initial Screening Assay
[00230] In order to improve the chance of detecting inducers of PBMC cytotoxicity
the samples were initially propped at a relatively high concentration. The sample
concentration was reduced in subsequent assays depending on sample activity.
[00231] Low concentration CCL21 Samples:
[00232] Low protein concentration samples of CCL21 (below 3000 mg /ml) were
diluted to between 400 and 600 mg/ml with PBS (without calcium or magnesium).
FBS and l-glutamine were added to make the sample 10% FBS and 1% l-glutamine.
Samples were loaded into the 1st well of a 96 well plate neat (240 ml volume).
One:two serial dilutions were done in a 96 well transfer plate into PBS with 10% FBS
and 1% l-glutamine.
[00233] Samples that started out at a high concentration (of protein, or activity, or
cells, or virus) were propped as described for low concentration protein samples or
prepped into growth/ assay media directly. Samples were loaded into the 1st well of a
96 well plate neat (240 //I volume). One two serial dilutions were done in a 96 well
transfer plate into growth assay media.
[00234] Baculovirus samples:
[00235] BV samples were diluted from 1:2 to 1:10 in growth / assay media (GAM)
and serially diluted as described above into GAM.
[00236] b-lFH or IL-2:
[00237] Final vial samples of b-IFN or IL-2 were reconstituted in the proper diluent
(saline or water for injection). Reconstituted b-lFN was at 0.25 mg/ml - 13.9mM,
reconstituted IL-2 was at 1.1 mg/ml = 64.7mM. A 200,000 lU/ml working stock of
either cytokine was made by further diluting with growth assay media (GAM). The
b-IFN lot 1FN-01-001 was diluted 1: 35.75 with GAM. The IL-2 lot MLAPM006 was
diluted 1:91.75 with GAM. Subsequent dilutions to assay concentration were with
GAM. IL-2 was diluted to 2000IU/ml for assay b-IFN was diluted to 2000 lU/ml for
assay.
[00238] High Concentration CCL21 Samples:
[00239] CCL21 samples with concentrations above 3 mg /ml were diluted to assay
concentration of 200 to 600 mg/ml with GAM.
[00240] Transfer of sample dilutions to Target Cell (Assay) plates:
[00241] The contents of the dilution plate were transferred to the assay (Cell) plate.
The final sample concentration was ½ that of the original dilution plate. A propette
with plate to plate transfer program for was used for the transfer. Assay plates were
incubated while prepping the PBMCs.
[00242] Toxiclty Control plate for direct cytotoxicity of test samples to target
cells:
[00243] Two identical transfer (dilution) plates were established, and media
transferred to 2 Cell plates. To Plate 1 50mI of PBMC prep was added for induced
cytotoxicity measurements. To the 2nd plate, 50mI PBMC prep media was added for
measuring direct cytotoxicity of test samples.
[00244] Isolating peripheral blood mononuclear ceils (PBMC) from Human
Peripheral Blood
[00245] A 1:10 dilution of bleach (3 liters), was prepared. All the tubes and pipettes
contacting with blood were bleached over night. The beaker was drained and all
Hems discarded in a sharps or biohazard container. The caps were removed from
the 50 ml tubes before handling the blood (to prevent contaminating the caps with
blood). The blood was added to 250ml disposable polycarbonate flask and diluted
with an equal volume of HBSS. Approximately 17ml of ficoll-plaque solution per 50
ml polystyrene tube was added 30 minutes before adding the blood. The blood was
layered on the top of the ficoll-plaque solution without disturbing the ficoll layer. Four
ml blood/HBSS was added for each 3 ml ficoll-plaque. (i.e. 17ml ficoll and 23 ml
blood/HBSS per 50ml tube).
[00246] Tubes were centrifuged at 1800 RPM (400 xg) for 30minutes at room temp.
(Sorval GLC-2B centrifuge). As much of the top layer as possible was aspirated
using a 25ml serological pipette, leaving about 5 ml on top of the second layer. A 5
ml serological pipette was used to remove the rest of the first layer. The second
layer, containing the B and T lymphocytes, was collected using a sterile 5ml
serological pipette and placed into a new 50ml tube. The collection was diluted with
3x the volume of RPMI with no additives. The resulting solution was centrifuged at
900 rpm (100 x g) for 15-20 minutes. (Wash 1). The supernatant was removed with
a serological pipette and the cells resuspended in 40 ml RPMI and centrifugation
was repeated at 900 rpm (Wash 2). The supernatant was removed with a
serological pipette and the cells resuspended in 40 ml PBMC prep media (RPMI with
0.5% BSA). The total volume of the re-suspended cells was accurately recorded.
The cells were counted with a Coulter counter to determine the cell density— a 1:5
dilution of cell concentrate in PBMC prep media was used for the count).
[00247] The re-suspension volume needed to attain proper ceil density was
determined. For the Cytotoxic Assay the desired density was 2 x 106 cells /ml and
for freezing of the PBMCs the desired density was 10 x 106 cells/ml. The final re-
suspension volume was calculated by multiplying cell density by total volume and
then dividing the product by the final desired cell density (2 or 10 x 106 cell/ml).
[00248] Centrifugation was repeated at 900rpm with the remainder of the re-
suspended cells. (Wash3). The supernatant was removed and resuspended in final
re-suspend volume. The cell density was confirmed with a Coulter counter (a 1:10
dilution of cell concentrate in PBMC prep media was used for the count).
[00248] PBMC Prep for Assay
[00250] For immediate use in assay, cells were resuspended in PBMC prep media.
The ceils were further diluted 1:2 in PBMC prep Media to a final cell density of 1 x
106 cell / ml. The cells were added to Assay plates with target cells 50 ml/well (50000
PBMCs/well). PBMCs were added with a Multichannel pipette. Assay plates were
incubated at 37°C and 5% CO2 for 3 to 4 days.
[00251] PBMC Prep for Freezing
[00252] For freezing cells were resuspended in 90% FBS (heat inactivated) + 10%
DMSO and frozen at a density of 10 x 106 cells/ml. The cells were aliquoted in 2ml
sterile cryotubes and frozen in isopropyl alcohol in cryo-freezing containers in -70°C
freezer. The final cell density was confirmed with a Coulter counter.
[00253] Thawing frozen PBMCs for Assay
[00254] Frozen aliquots of PBMCs were quickly thawed in 37°C water bath. Cells in
were resuspended in 13ml RPMI 1640 in a conical centrifuge tube and then
centrifuged at 900 rpm (100 x g) for 15-20 minutes. The supernatant was removed
with a serological pipette and the cells were resuspended in 13 ml PBMC prep media
(RPM! with 0.5% BSA). Cells were counted with a Coulter counter to determine the
cell density - a 1:5 dilution of cell concentrate in PBMC prep media was performed
for the count).
[00255] The re-suspension volume needed to attain proper cell density was then
determined. For the Cytotoxic Assay the desired cell density was 2 x 106 cells /ml.
The final re-suspension volume was determined by muliplying the Cell density by the
total volume and ten dividing the product by the final desired cell density (2 or 10 x
106 cell/ml). Centrifugation was repeated at 900rpm with the remainder of the re-
suspended ceils. The supernatant was removed and the cells resuspended in final
re-suspend volume.
[00256] The cell density was confirmed with a Coulter counter - a 1:10 dilution of cell
concentrate in PBMC prep media was performed for the count). Cells were further
diluted 1:2 in Growth Assay Media to a final cell density of 1 x 106 cell / ml. Cells-
were then added to Assay plates with target cells 50 //I/well (50000 PBMCs/well).
PBMCs were added with a Multichannel pipette. Assay plates were incubated at
37°C and 5% CO2for 3 to 4 days.
[00257] Staining of Assay plate with Alamar Blue
[00258] After 3 to 4 days of incubation, the media was aspirated from the assay
plates. One hundred mI/well Alamar Blue staining media (10% Alamar Blue in RPMI
with 0.5% BSA) was added, and the plates incubated for 2 to 3 hours. The response
was measured using either a spectrophotometer (Absorbance at 570nm - 630nm) or
flourometrically (excitation at 530nm and Emission at 590nm).
[00259] Assay ActivityThe assay activity was defined as the reference well
response divided by the sample well with PBMC response. In most cases the
reference well was the no PBMC control well for the sample at the same sample
concentration as the PBMC well, usually at the highest sample concentration (the 1st
well in the dilution series). In some instances when there was insufficient sample to
run a no PBMC control plate the reference well is a PBS/growth media well with or
without PBMCs.
[00261] When enough sample was present for a no PBMC control plate, the activity
was set as equal to the Direct Cytotox response / Induced Cytotox response. As
shown in Figure 14, in vitro data correlates with in vivo data.
[00263] Example 13. Anti-gp64 Monoclonal Antibodies Blocks Baculovirus
Tumor Cell Killing
[00264] Starting material of baculovirus (CA3) was treated with anti-gp64. Briefly, 1-
500 mg of purified mouse anti-gp64 monoclonal antibody (clone 1.3A provided by Dr.
Donald Jarvis, U. of WY) or Ig control was mixed with various infectious units of
recombinant baculovirus in a controlled volume. The binding of antibody to virus was
conducted at room temperature, in the dark for approximately 15 hours. Samples
were refrigerated for 1-2 days prior to plaque or cytotoxicfty assay. Samples were
tested in the cytotoxicity assay as described above. See Figure 15.
[00265] Example 14. Inactivated Baculovlrus Induces PBMC-Medlated Tumor
Cell Killing In vitro
[00266] Starting material of baculovirus (CD3) was inactivated by treatment with
trioxalen and UV light Baculovirus was photo-inactivated by psoralen and ultra-violet
light (Weightman. S. A. and Banks, M. J. Virol. Met. 81:179-182 (1999)). Insect cell
culture media containing baculovirus was transferred (3 mL, approximately 6E7 pfu)
to a 6-well ceil culture plate (Costar). A stock solution of 4,5',8-trimethyl psoralen
(trioxalen) was prepared at 2 mg/mL in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and added to
each well to a final concentration of 100 mg/mL. The culture dish was then exposed
to ultra-violet (365 nm) light for 15 minutes by placing a hand-held lamp (Model UVL-
56, UVP, Upland, CA) 1.5 cm over the plate. Control samples included DMSO with
no psoralen, as well as a non-irradiated control with psoralen. After irradiation,
media was transferred to a 10 MWCO dialysis cartridge (Slidalyzer, Pierce) and
dialysed against phosphate-buffered saline. All samples were assayed for plaque-
forming activity on Sf-9 cells. Samples were tested in the cytotoxicity assay as
described above, and results are set forth in Figure 16.
[00267] Example 15. Tumor Cells are the Principle Target for Baculovirus
[00268] Intact monolayers of A549 target cells were treated with baculovirus for 3
hours and then washed 3 times with growth assay media. At the same time effector
cells (PBMSc) were also treated with baculovirus for 3 hours and washed 3 times.
Baculovirus treated and untreated target and effector cells were combined as
follows: 1) Untreated target cells alone; 2) Untreated target and effector cells; 3)
Baculovirus treated target cells and untreated PBMCs; and 4) Untreated target cells
and baculovirus treated PBMCs.
[00269] After 4 days incubation the target cell viability was measured as described in
SOP. The cell viability measurement, as determined by Alamar Blue fluorescence,
was the mean of 16 wells per group (experiment was performed in a 96 well format).
Results are set forth in Figure 17.
[00270] Example 16. Tumor Growth Inhibition in an Animal Model of Lung
Cancer Using Baculovirus
[00271] C57BL/6 mice at 8-10 weeks of age were allowed to acclimate for a
minimum of 7 days prior to inoculation with tumor cells. Mice were inoculated s.c at
the right flank with 2 X 105 early passage ( Tumor size was measured twice per week. When tumors reached 50-100 mm3
(typically 7 days after tumor inoculation), mice were randomized into groups and
received their first dose of Baculovirus intratumoraily on the same day. The dosing
schedule was qd X 6 days. The mice were placed in four groups as follows: 1)
Albumin negative control 25 mg/dose (0.5 mg/ml); 2) Live virus positive control (titer
about 1X107/ml); 3) live virus negative control (titer about 800/ml); and 4) inactivated
virus (titer about 800/ml). Tumors were measured twice a week for up to four
weeks. When tumor volume reached 2500 mm3 or when any of the following
symptoms were seen the mice were sacrificed. The symptoms were body weight
loss is more than 20%, tumor ulceration areas is more than 30% of tumor surface
area or less than 30% of tumor surface but has openings, bleeding or discharging,
server difficulty in breath, or moribund.
[00272] As shown in Figure t8 intratumoral administration of Baculovirus resulted in
growth delay of 3LL tumors.
[00273] Example 17. Protection from Infectious Agents In Vitro and In Vivo
Using Baculovirus
[00274] Live baculovirus has been shown to induce interferons (IFN) from murine
and human cell lines and induces in vivo protection of mice from
encephalornyocarditis virus infection. However, inactivation of the baculovirus by
UV, for example, eliminates both infectivity and IFN-inducing activity. (Gronowski et
a!.. J Virology, Dec. 1999, p. 9944-9951 Vol. 73, No. 12).
[00275] To study the effect of baculovirus on infectious agents, cells were
challenged in vivo and in vitro with Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV). As shown in
Figure 19, cells or medium treated with Sf9 and baculovirus or with Sf9 and
baculovirus media provided maximal protection against VSV in vitro. As shown in
Figure 19, inactivated baculovirus protects in vivo and in vitro against pathogenic
viral challenge.
[00276] Example 18: Bystander Effect
[00277] To Investigate whether the inhibition of tumor cells is only direct (i.e. that
each cell must be specifically targeted by a non-pathogenic virus) infected tumor
cells and non-infected tumor cells were mixed in different proportions.
[00278] A549 or MG-63 cell lines or PBMCs, were exposed to an activating dose of
baculovirus for 3 to 5 hours. After exposure to baculovirus the excess or non-binding
virus was washed off from the responder cells. The washed BV treated cells were
then mixed with non-treated responder cells in various proportions. For PBMCs the
mixture of BV treated and non-treated ceils were added to non-treated A549 or MG-
63 target cells. Likewise, the mixture of BV treated A549 or MG-63 target cells were
added to non-treated PBMCs. Non-BV treated ceils were physically handled the
same as BV treated cells.
[00279] PBMCs were treated with BV only while the cells were kept in suspension
while shaking in a CO2 incubator. The cells were washed by centrifugation, decanted
and re-suspended (3 times) followed by mixing with non-treated PBMCs. The A549
and MG-63 target cells were treated with BV in 2 ways. Either the intact monolayer
was treated with BV followed by gentle washing in place with fresh growth media,
then non-treated target cells were added to the assay plates, or while in suspension
as described for the PBMCs.
[00280] If the Baculovirus was removed from the A549 and MG-63 target cells for an
extended time before the addition of PBMCs there was a rapid loss of the cytotoxic
response in the cytoxicity assay. By 20 hours after removal of the baculovirus the
cytotoxic response was entirely gone with the A549 cells and mostly gone for the
MG-63 cells. (Data not shown)
[00281] Washing of the baculovirus treated target cell monolayer in place, then
mixing with non-treated cells and immediate addition of PBMCs results in a
bystander effect for both A649 and MG-63 target cells.
[00282] BV treatment of PBMCs or A549 cells in suspension followed by centrifugal
washing (3 cycles of centrifugation, decant, re-suspend) effectively eliminated the
cytotoxic response.
[00283] BV treatment and centrifugal washing of MG-63 cells was less effective in
removing the cytotoxic response with MG-63 target cells.
[00284] PBMCs treated with BV in suspension while shaking followed by centrifugal
washing seemed to result in a significant non-specific (in wells with 0% BV treated
cells) stimulation of the cytotoxic response against MG-63 target cells but not A549
cells.
[00285] As seen in Figure 20, when the total cell volume was 20% infected cells and
80% non-infected cells, cell death was observed at the maximal response.
Therefore, the non-infected cells were killed by what is known by the bystander
effect (i.e. being In the vicinity of targeted cells promotes the ceil death of non-
targeted (infected) ceils).
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We Claim:
1. A composition comprising a non-pathogenic, insect-specific virus,
such as herein described, a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier,
and a component selected from the group consisting of at least
one peripheral blood mononuclear cell and at least one antigen
such as herein described.
2. The composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein the said non-
pathogenic, insect-specific virus is inactivated using two or more
methods selected from the group consisting of genetic
inactivation, chemical inactivation, photochemical inactivation,
UV-light inactivation, heat inactivation, or radiological
inactivation.
3. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition
optionally comprises at least one adjuvant, such as herein
described.
4. The composition as claimed in claim 3, wherein said antigen is a
cancer antigen, and wherein said adjuvant is capable of increasing
the immune response to the cancer antigen.
5. The composition in claim 1, comprising a non-pathogenic, insect-
specific virus, one or more peripheral blood mononuclear cells,
and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
A composition comprising a non-pathogenic, insect-specific
virus and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein said
non-pathogenic, insect-specific virus is inactivated using two
or more methods selected from the group consisting of genetic
inactivation, chemical inactivation, photochemical
inactivation,UV-light inactivation, heat inactivation, or
radiological inactivation, said composition further comprising
at least one peripheral blood mononuclear cell.

Documents:

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771-KOLNP-2005-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

771-KOLNP-2005-FORM 27-1.1.pdf

771-KOLNP-2005-FORM 27.pdf

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771-kolnp-2005-granted-abstract.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-claims.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-correspondence.pdf

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771-kolnp-2005-granted-drawings.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-examination report.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 1.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 18.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 2.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 26.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 3.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-form 5.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-reply to examination report.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-specification.pdf

771-kolnp-2005-granted-translated copy of priority document.pdf

771-KOLNP-2005-PA.pdf


Patent Number 224995
Indian Patent Application Number 771/KOLNP/2005
PG Journal Number 44/2008
Publication Date 31-Oct-2008
Grant Date 29-Oct-2008
Date of Filing 02-May-2005
Name of Patentee CHIRON CORPORATION
Applicant Address 4560 HORTON STREET, EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 KAVANAUGH, W. MICHAEL 4560 HORTON STREET, EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA 94608
2 SLOAN, DAVID, L. 4560 HORTON STREET, EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA 94608
3 MACKICHAN, MARY, LEE 4560 HORTON STREET, EMERYVILLE, CALIFORNIA 94608
PCT International Classification Number A61K
PCT International Application Number PCT/US2003/031320
PCT International Filing date 2003-10-01
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 60/416,660 2002-10-01 U.S.A.
2 60/414,649 2002-10-01 U.S.A.