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WO2024215947A1 - Compositions comprising v2 opt hiv envelopes - Google Patents

Compositions comprising v2 opt hiv envelopes Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024215947A1
WO2024215947A1 PCT/US2024/024154 US2024024154W WO2024215947A1 WO 2024215947 A1 WO2024215947 A1 WO 2024215947A1 US 2024024154 W US2024024154 W US 2024024154W WO 2024215947 A1 WO2024215947 A1 WO 2024215947A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
envelope
nucleic acid
composition
hiv
uca
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2024/024154
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Kevin O. Saunders
Barton F. Haynes
Bette T. Korber
Kshitij G. WAGH
Original Assignee
Duke University
Triad National Security, Llc
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Publication date
Application filed by Duke University, Triad National Security, Llc filed Critical Duke University
Publication of WO2024215947A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024215947A1/en

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Definitions

  • compositions Comprising V2 OPT HIV Envelopes
  • the present invention relates in general, to a composition suitable for use in inducing anti -HIV- 1 antibodies, and, in particular, to immunogenic compositions comprising envelope proteins and nucleic acids to induce cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies and increase their breadth of coverage.
  • the invention also relates to methods of inducing such broadly neutralizing anti -HIV- 1 antibodies using such compositions.
  • the invention provides compositions and method for induction of immune response, for example cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing Ab (bNAb) induction.
  • immune response for example cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing Ab (bNAb) induction.
  • the invention provides a CH505, CAP256SU, CAP256wk34.80, CAM13, Q23, or T250 envelope immunogens comprising optimized V2 loop, for example but not limited to initiate VI V2. and/or CD4 binding site and/or Fusion Peptide unmutated common ancestor (UCA) broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAbs) precursors.
  • the invention provides CH505 T/F envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • the invention provides CAP256SU envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • the invention provides CAP256wk34.80 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • the invention provides CAM13 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • the invention provides Q23 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • the invention provides T250 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
  • compositions contemplate nucleic acid, as DNA and/or RNA, or proteins immunogens either alone or in any combination.
  • the methods contemplate genetic, as DNA and/or RNA, immunization either alone or in combination with envelope protein(s).
  • nucleic acid encoding an envelope is operably linked to a promoter inserted in an expression vector.
  • compositions comprise a suitable carrier.
  • compositions comprise a suitable adjuvant.
  • the induced immune response includes induction of antibodies, including but not limited to autologous and/or cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 envelope.
  • antibodies including but not limited to autologous and/or cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 envelope.
  • assays that analyze whether an immunogenic composition induces an immune response, and the type of antibodies induced are known in the art and are also described herein.
  • the invention provides a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the invention provides a nucleic acid consisting essentially of a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the invention provides an expression vector comprising any of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the invention provides an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the invention provides an expression vector consisting essentially a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the nucleic acids are codon optimized for expression in a mammalian cell, in vivo or in vitro.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids consisting essentially of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids consisting of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the nucleic acid of the invention is operably linked to a promoter and is inserted in an expression vector.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the expression vector.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising at least one of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding any one of the polypeptides of the invention.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid encoding an HIV-1 envelope of the invention.
  • compositions and methods employ an HIV-1 envelope as polypeptide instead of a nucleic acid sequence encoding the HIV-1 envelope.
  • compositions and methods employ an HIV-1 envelope as polypeptide, a nucleic acid sequence encoding the HIV-1 envelope, or a combination thereof.
  • polypeptides are recombinantly produced.
  • the envelope used in the compositions and methods of the invention can be a gpl60, gpl50, gpl45, gp!40, gp!20, gp41, or N-terminal deletion variants thereof as described herein, cleavage resistant variants thereof as described herein, or codon optimized sequences thereof.
  • the composition comprises envelopes as trimers.
  • envelope proteins are multimerized, for example trimers are attached to a particle such that multiple copies of the trimer are attached and the multimerized envelope is prepared and formulated for immunization in a human.
  • the compositions comprise envelopes, including but not limited to trimers as particulate, high- density array on liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles.
  • the trimers are in a well ordered, near native like or closed conformation.
  • the trimer compositions comprise a homogenous mix of native like trimers.
  • the trimer compositions comprise at least 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% native like trimers.
  • the polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide comprising any one of the polypeptides described herein.
  • the polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide consisting essentially of any one of the polypeptides described herein.
  • the polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide consisting of any one of the polypeptides described herein.
  • the polypeptide is recombinantly produced.
  • the polypeptides and nucleic acids of the invention are suitable for use as an immunogen, for example to be administered in a human subject.
  • the envelope is any of the forms of HIV- 1 envelope.
  • the envelope is a gpl20, gpl40, gp!45 (i.e. with a transmembrane), gpl50 envelope.
  • gpl40 is designed to form a stable trimer.
  • envelope protomers form a trimer which is not a SOSIP trimer.
  • the trimer is a SOSIP based trimer wherein each protomer comprises additional modifications.
  • envelope trimers are recombinantly produced.
  • envelope trimers are purified from cellular recombinant fractions by antibody binding and reconstituted in lipid comprising formulations. See for example W02015/127108 titled ⁇ ‘Trimeric HIV-1 envelopes and uses thereof’ which content is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • the envelopes of the invention are engineered and comprise non-naturally occurring modifications.
  • the envelope is in a liposome.
  • the envelope comprises a transmembrane domain with a cytoplasmic tail embedded in a liposome.
  • the nucleic acid comprises a nucleic acid sequence which encodes a gpl20, gpl40, gpl45, gpl50, gpl60.
  • the vectors are any suitable vector.
  • Non-limiting examples include, VSV, replicating rAdenovirus type 4, MV A, Chimp adenovirus vectors, pox vectors, and the like.
  • the nucleic acids are administered in NanoTaxi block polymer nanospheres.
  • the composition and methods comprise an adjuvant.
  • Non-limiting examples include, AS01 B, AS01 E, gla/SE, alum, Poly I poly C (poly IC), polylC/long chain (LC) TLR agonists, TLR7/8 and 9 agonists, or a combination of TLR7/8 and TLR9 agonists (see Moody et al. (2014) J. Virol. March 2014 vol. 88 no. 6 3329-3339), or any other adjuvant.
  • TLR7/8 agonist include TLR7/8 ligands. Gardiquimod, Imiquimod and R848 (resiquimod).
  • a non-limiting embodiment of a combination of TLR7/8 and TLR9 agonist comprises R848 and oCpG in STS (see Moody et al. (2014) J. Virol. March 2014 vol. 88 no. 6 3329-3339).
  • the adjuvant is an LNP. See e.g.. without limitation Shirai et al. “Lipid Nanoparticle Acts as a Potential Adjuvant for Influenza Split Vaccine without Inducing Inflammatory Responses” Vaccines 2020, 8, 433; doi: 10.3390/vaccines8030433, published 3 August 2020.
  • LNPs used as adjuvants for proteins or mRNA compositions are composed of an ionizable lipid, cholesterol, lipid conjugated with polyethylene glycol, and a helper lipid.
  • Non-limiting embodiment include LNPs without polyethylene glycol.
  • the invention provides a cell comprising a nucleic acid encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression.
  • the invention provides a clonally derived population of cells encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression.
  • the invention provides a stable pool of cells encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression.
  • the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide listed in Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5.
  • the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer designed to form an envelope trimer.
  • the invention also provides nucleic acids encoding these recombinant polypeptides. Non-limiting examples of amino acids and nucleic acids of such protomers are shown in Figures 3A-5E, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, and 19-22.
  • the invention provides a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the recombinant trimer and a carrier, wherein the trimer comprises three identical protomers of an HIV-1 envelope listed in Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a nucleic acid encoding these recombinant HIV-1 envelope and a carrier.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids encoding HIV-1 envelopes for immunization wherein the nucleic acid encodes a gp!20 envelope, gp!20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gp!40CF. gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpI45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope.
  • the invention provides a selection of HIV- 1 envelopes for immunization wherein the HIV-1 envelope is a gp!20 envelope or a gp!20D8 variant.
  • a composition for immunization comprises protomers that form stabilized SOSIP trimers.
  • compositions for use in immunization further comprise an adjuvant.
  • compositions comprise a nucleic acid
  • the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter, and could be inserted in an expression vector.
  • the nucleic acid is a mRNA.
  • the nucleic acid is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle.
  • the invention provides a composition for a prime boost immunization regimen comprising one or more envelopes from Table 1. 2, 3, 4 and/or 5, wherein the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer designed to form an envelope trimer, wherein the envelope is a prime or boost immunogen.
  • the invention provides a composition for a prime boost immunization regimen comprising one or more envelopes of the invention.
  • the invention provides methods of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering a composition comprising a polypeptide and/or any suitable form of a nucleic acid(s) encoding an HIV-1 envelope(s) in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
  • the nucleic acid encodes a gp!20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gp!40 envelope (gp!40C. gp!40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope.
  • the polypeptide is gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gp!40 envelope (gpl40C, gp!40CF, gp!40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gp!45 envelope, a gpI50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope.
  • the methods comprise administering an adjuvant.
  • the methods comprise administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
  • the administered polypeptide is multimerized in a liposome or nanoparticle.
  • the methods comprise administering one or more additional HIV-1 immunogens to induce a T cell response.
  • Non-limiting examples include gag, nef, pol, etc.
  • the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 Env ectodomain trimer, comprising three gpl20-gp41 protomers comprising a gpl20 polypeptide and a gp41 ectodomain, wherein each protomer is the same and each protomer comprises portions from envelope BG505 HIV-1 strain and gpl20 polypeptide portions from a CH505 HIV-1 strain and stabilizing mutations A316W and E64K.
  • the trimer is stabilized in a prefusion mature closed conformation, and wherein the trimer does not comprise nonnatural disulfide bond between cysteine substitutions at positions 201 and 433 of the HXB2 reference sequence.
  • Non-limited examples of envelopes contemplated as trimers are listed in Table 1.
  • the amino acid sequence of one monomer comprised in the trimer is shown in Figure 3-5, 12F, 13, 14, 16. 17. 18F, 20 and 22.
  • the trimer is immunogenic.
  • the trimer binds to any one of the antibodies PGT145, PGT151, CH103UCA, CH103, VRC01, PGT128, or any combination thereof.
  • the trimer does not bind to antibody 19B and/or 17B.
  • the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising any one of the recombinant trimers of the invention.
  • the compositions comprising trimers are immunogenic.
  • the percent trimer in such immunogenic compositions could vary.
  • the composition comprises 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%.75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% stabilized trimer.
  • the envelope comprises ferritin.
  • the inventive designs comprise modifications, including without limitation linkers between the envelope and ferritin designed to optimize ferritin nanoparticle assembly.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the inventive envelopes or nucleic acid sequences encoding the same.
  • the nucleic acid is mRNA.
  • the mRNA is comprised in a lipid nanoparticle (LNP).
  • LNP lipid nanoparticle
  • the invention provides compositions comprising a nanoparticle which comprises any one of the envelopes of the invention.
  • the nanoparticle is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising any one of the stabilized envelopes of the invention.
  • the composition is administered as a prime and/or a boost.
  • the composition comprises nanoparticles.
  • methods of the invention further comprise administering an adjuvant.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising a plurality of nanoparticles comprising a plurality of the envelopes/trimers of the invention.
  • the envelopes/trimers of the invention are multimeric when comprised in a nanoparticle.
  • the nanoparticle size is suitable for delivery.
  • the nanoparticles are ferritin based nanoparticles.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids comprising sequences encoding polypeptides or proteins of the invention.
  • the nucleic acids are DNAs.
  • the nucleic acids are mRNAs.
  • the invention provides expression vectors comprising the nucleic acids of the invention.
  • the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising mRNAs encoding the inventive envelopes. In certain embodiments, these are optionally formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In certain embodiments, the mRNAs are modified. Modifications include without limitations modified ribonucleotides, poly-A tail, 5’cap.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids encoding the inventive polypeptide or protein designs.
  • the nucleic acids are mRNA, modified or unmodified, suitable for use any use, e.g but not limited to use as pharmaceutical compositions.
  • the nucleic acids are formulated in lipid, such as but not limited to LNPs.
  • the invention provides compositions comprising an envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7. 8. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20-22 or any combination thereof.
  • Non-limiting embodiments of combinations include CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0), CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0, CAM13RRK K130H, CH505 UCA OPT3 D167N, or any combination thereof. See Figures 8-12.
  • Non-limiting embodiments of combinations includes HIV CAP256SU OPT 4.0, CAM13RRRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAP256wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT and A.Q23 17CHIM.SOSIPV5.2.8/293F (HV1301552) or any combination thereof ( Figures 14-16).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0.
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UC AOPT_R17 IK, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises HIV CAP256SU OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK.
  • the composition comprises CAM13RRK.
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi.
  • the composition comprises
  • the composition comprises
  • the invention provides compositions comprising nucleic acids encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20-22, or any combination thereof. Provided are also methods of using these envelopes and/or nucleic acids, and/or compositions comprising administering an amount sufficient to induce immune responses in a subject.
  • the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide according to Table 2, Figures 4C-D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4 or an envelope polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19 or Figure 20. or Table 5 or an envelope polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 21 or Figure 22.
  • the invention provides a recombinant HIV- 1 envelope polypeptide CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0) or HIV CAP256.wk34.c80 V2UCA OPT 4.0 R171K.
  • the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer. In some embodiments, the polypeptide is designed to form an envelope trimer. In certain embodiments, the envelope is based on CH505 T/F envelope and comprises optimized sequence for binding to V2 antibodies, including without limitation V2 UCAs. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAP256. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on HIV_CAP256SU (based on the HIV sequence). In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAP256 SU (based on the SHIV.CAP256SU sequence). SHIV.CAP256SU differs in HXB2 position 375 and has a SlVmac cytoplasmic tail from HXB2 position 721 to the terminus.
  • the envelope is based on CAP256 SU_375S (the same as CAP256 SU sequence with a serine at HXB2 position 375).
  • an envelope based on CAP256 includes envelopes based at least on these three variants of CAP256SU.
  • the envelope is based on CAP256wk34.80.
  • the envelope is based on CAM13.
  • the envelope is based on Q23.17.
  • the envelope comprises mutations H130D, D167N, K169R. Q170R and Q171K, or a combination thereof.
  • the VI hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 132-152 is replaced with the sequence STYNNTHNISK.
  • the V2 hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 185-190 is replaced with the sequence NKNGRQ.
  • the VI hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 132-152 is replaced with the sequence STYNNTHNISK and the V2 hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 185-190 is replaced with the sequence NKNGRQ.
  • the envelope comprises glycan knock-in mutations as described in Wagh et al.
  • the envelope polypeptide is designed to multimerize.
  • the envelope sequence comprises a self-assembling protein.
  • the self-assembling protein is a ferritin.
  • the self assembling protein is added via a sortase A reaction.
  • the envelope is based on CAM13RRK, CAM13RRRK, HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S.
  • CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT CAP256_wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT
  • CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K C AP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK, CAP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK D 167N, Q23. 17_(natural_wildtype), Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT GLY, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT ALT. Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT GLY ALT, Q23. 17_V2UCAOPT_GLY_ALT_R170Q, CH505 V2UCAOPT2 N332, CH505_V2UCAOPT_v3.0. See Table 2.
  • the optimized V2 loop modifications described herein can be incorporated into an envelope from Table 1 or Table 3.
  • the invention provides a nucleic acid of Figures 19, 17, 20 or 22 or encoding a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide according to Table 2.
  • the nucleic acid is an mRNA.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20. wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U).
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1- methyl-psuedouridine.
  • the mRNA is modified.
  • the modification is a modified nucleotide such as 5-methyl-cytidine and/or 6- methyl-adenosine and/or modified uridine.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long.
  • T thymine
  • U uridine
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1 -methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1-methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1-methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the mRNA is administered as an LNP.
  • the invention provides a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 2, Figures 4C-D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the recombinant trimer and a carrier, wherein the trimer comprises three identical protomers of an HIV-1 envelope listed in Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a nucleic acid encoding the recombinant HIV-1 envelope and a carrier.
  • the compositions comprise at least two different immunogens targeting different V2 UCAs.
  • the immunogens are from Table 1, Table 2 Table 3, Table 4 and/or Table 5.
  • Non-limiting embodiment of a combination includes CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0), CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0, CAMI3RRK K130H, CH505 UCA OPT3 D167N, or any combination thereof. See Figures 8-12.
  • Non-limiting embodiment of a combination includes CAP256SU OPT 4.0, CAM13RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT, CAP256wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT or any combination thereof ( Figures 14-16).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0.
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80 V2UCAOPT R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23. 17 (natural Env).
  • the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK.
  • the composition comprises CAM13RRK.
  • the composition comprises
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi.
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_K169R_101nQQavi.
  • the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0_R171K SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi.
  • the envelopes are or are designed as trimers, and/or nanoparticles.
  • the immunogenic composition further comprises an adjuvant.
  • the nucleic acid encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19, 20, 21 or any combination thereof is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the nucleic acid is inserted in an expression vector.
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering a composition comprising any suitable form of a nucleic acid(s) encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19, 20 or 21 or any combination thereof or an envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D. 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 20 or 21 or any combination thereof in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
  • the composition administered comprises a nucleic acid encoding a gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer.
  • the composition administered comprises a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, a transmembrane bound envelope, or an envelope designed to multimerize.
  • the composition administered further comprises an adjuvant.
  • the method further comprises administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
  • the polypeptide administered is multimerized in a liposome or nanoparticle.
  • the method further comprising administering one or more additional HIV-1 immunogens to induce a T cell response.
  • the invention provides a composition comprises a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises an envelope, wherein the envelope is selected from Figures 4C-4D. 7, 8, 9. 10. 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19. 20. 21 or 22 or any combination thereof.
  • the compositions comprises two, three, four or more different immunogens.
  • the immunogens target different V2 UCAs.
  • the different immunogens are selected from the various V2 OPT designs described herein.
  • the nanoparticle of the composition is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises (a) a nucleic acid according to Figures 17, 19, 20 or 21 or encoding the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figures 4C- D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figures 21 or (b) a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15. Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F. or Table 4. or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, Figure 20 or Figure 21.
  • the nanoparticle of the composition is a ferritin selfassembling nanoparticle.
  • the nanoparticle of the composition comprises multimers of trimers.
  • the nanoparticle of the composition comprises 1-8 trimers.
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising any one of the recombinant envelopes or compositions described herein.
  • the methods comprise administering two, three, four or more different immunogens.
  • the different immunogens target different V2 UCAs.
  • the different immunogens are selected from the V2 OPT designs described herein— Tables 1, 2, 3, and/or 4, Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, or 20.
  • the composition is administered as a prime.
  • the composition is administered as a boost.
  • the invention provides a nucleic acid encoding any of the recombinant envelopes described herein.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising the nucleic acid and a carrier.
  • the nucleic acid is an mRNA.
  • the mRNA is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle (LNP).
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising the nucleic acid encoding any of the recombinant envelopes described herein.
  • the immunogenic composition further comprises a carrier.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition or composition, wherein the composition comprises at least two different HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acids encoding a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, or a combination thereof.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a first immunogen and a second immunogen, wherein the first immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, or Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21 or a nucleic acid encoding said recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, and wherein the second immunogen is a different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, or Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21 or a nucleic acid encoding said different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
  • the first immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering the immunogenic composition in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response. In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
  • at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, the first immunogen and the second immunogen are a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
  • the immunogenic composition further comprises one or more additional immunogens, wherein the one or more additional immunogens is different to the first and second immunogens.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising HIV-1 envelopes HIV CAP256SU OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23. 17.
  • the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering the immunogenic composition in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response. In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
  • the HIV-1 envelopes are in the form of a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acid, or a combination thereof.
  • one or more of the HIV-1 envelopes is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
  • the nucleic acid is an mRNA.
  • the composition comprises a carrier. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises an adjuvant.
  • the patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color.
  • Figure 1 shows CH505 Mature Optimized Design. Shown are CH505 amino acid substitutions that are statistically associated with for V2 apex mature bNAb sensitivity.
  • the letters represent single amino acids, and the height of the letter in the sequence LOGO indicates its frequency in the population.
  • the numbers underneath the LOGO are HXB2 reference strain positions in the viral sequence.
  • O stands for an N embedded in a N-linked glycosylation site. Blue are amino acids that are associated with sensitivity, red are amino acids associated with resistance, black are amino acids that were not associated with either sensitivity or resistance.
  • V2 SET OPT chimeric SOSIP (last row) carries all the design mutations from the full length CH505 TF V2 SET OPT except at 31, 33 and 588, 644. For the former, the SOSIP construct has the favorable mutations.
  • FIG. 2 shows additional signature amino acids associated with V2 bNAb unmutated common ancestor or early intermediate antibodies from early stages of V2 apex bNAb maturation. See Figure 1 for details.
  • UCA OPT1 SOSIP construct just has one sub-optimal aa at PG9 germline reverted Ab signature sites as compared to the full length UCA OPT1 - it has an M-535 instead of 1-535.
  • Figures 3A-3C show non-limiting embodiments of amino acid sequences. These are continuous sequences where dashes represent gaps if these sequences were aligned.
  • Figures 4A and 4B show non-limiting embodiments of amino acid and nucleic acid sequences.
  • VDAT cloning site and Kozak sequence.
  • Underlined signal peptide that is cleaved from mature protein.
  • Figure 4C shows a non-limiting embodiment of a gp!60 envelope amino acid sequence for CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2.
  • Figure 4D shows a non-limiting embodiment of a nucleic acid sequence encoding the envelope in Figure 4C.
  • Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show non-limiting embodiment of sortase designs and nucleic acid and protein sequences.
  • Figure 5E shows non-limiting embodiments of ferritin designs.
  • the linker between the envelope sequence and the ferritin protein sequence could be any suitable linker.
  • the ferritin protein could be any suitable ferritin. See e.g. without limitation US Patent 10,961,283, incorporated herein by reference.
  • the envelopes in these designs are CH505 T/F or CH505 M5. A skilled artisan can readily incorporate the V2 optimization into these envelopes.
  • Figure 6A shows neutralization data for optimized designs of the invention.
  • Y1 6B summarized the neutralization data of Figure 6A and shows IC50 ((pg/ml) titers).
  • K170R should be Q170R.
  • the neutralization data is from a standard assay in the field: see for e.g. Barbian et al. PMID: 25900654 or Montefiori et al. PMID: 18432938.
  • Envs being tested are inserted in a standard HIV backbone with a luciferase reporter, the viruses are then expressed in 293T cells and then tested for ability to infect TZM-bl cells in presence of varying concentrations of antibodies measured by luciferase based luminosity.
  • Figures 7A-7I depict the second round design strategy.
  • Fig. 7A depicts the detection of the R170 signature which is a polar contact with Tyrl 11.
  • Fig. 7B depicts PG16 RUA and PG9 RUA sensitivity- for CAM13K (i.e. CAM 13 + Q171K), CAM13K + K169R, CAM13K + K1 9R + K170R and CAM13K + K169R + K170Q.
  • Fig. 7C depicts Al 61 interactions.
  • Fig. 7D depicts the PCT64 LMCA signature determined using CH505 UCA OPT + H130D was tested to determine.
  • Figs. 7E-7G depict sensitivity of CH505 TF.
  • Fig. 7H depicts the sensitivity- of candidates to five UCA lineages.
  • 71 depicts sensitivity of CH505T; CH505 OPT2 N332; CH505 OPT2 N332 Q170R; or CH505 OPT2 N332 H130D, K169R, Q170R to VRC26 UCA, CHOI RUA3, PG9 RUA, PG16RUA, PCT64 LMCA, or 5695 rhesus UCA.
  • Figures 8A-8B depict identified V2 apex UCA neutralization constructs.
  • Fig. 8A shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail are sensitive to all V2 apex UCAs.
  • Fig. 8B depicts other neutralization constructs.
  • Figures 9A-9S depict initial determination of attractive V2 apex bNAbs targets for immunogen design.
  • Fig. 9A depicts the viral membrane structure.
  • Fig. 9B depicts the V2 apex bNAB from SHIV CH505 infected RM.
  • Fig. 9C show s schematic of signature based approach of immunogen design. See also Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72.
  • Fig. 9D depicts phylogenetic and/or contact sites, robustness across bNAbs and datasets, and were used for designing CH505 SET OPT.
  • Fig. 9A depicts the viral membrane structure.
  • Fig. 9B depicts the V2 apex bNAB from SHIV CH505 infected RM.
  • Fig. 9C show s schematic of signature based approach of immunogen design. See also Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72
  • FIG. 9E depicts neutralization data for 208 global viruses against CH04 & CAP256 UCAs, and heavy and/or light chain germline reverted PG9.
  • Fig. 9F shows analyses for CAP256 IA4.
  • Fig. 9G shows Hypervariable Loop Characteristic.
  • Hypervariable loops cannot be aligned due to extreme length & sequence variation. Tested for associations with net charge, length & number of glycans. Found two significant hypervariable loop associations with sensitivity to V2 apex bNAbs: Positively charged V2 loops; V2 apex bNAbs have long anionic CDRH3. Smaller hypervariable VI & V2 combined: possible steric hindrance due to the dynamic loops.
  • Fig. 9H shows Hypervariable VI & V2 substitutions: Optimizing for Positive Charge and optimizing for smaller length based on M-group Hypervariable length distribution.
  • Fig. 91 depicts M-group hypervariable length distribution.
  • 9J depicts mature signature and germline signature sensitivity to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. It show s that mature signature introduction increases sensitivity to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. Shown are results for CH505 TF and CH505 V2 SET envelopes as gp!60 constructs in a pseudovirus neutralization assay.
  • the assay is a standard TZM-B1 cell neutralization assay as describer in Sarzotti-Kelsoe et al. J Immunol Methods. 2014 Jul ;409: 131-46. doi: 10.1016/j.jim.2013.1 1.022. Epub 2013 Dec 1. Antibody is shown in each panel.
  • N332 represents a predicted V2 apex bNab resistance signature, but is critical for V3 bNabs (CH505 Env has N334). Moving the N334 glycan to N332 did not reduce its sensitivity to mature V2 bNabs, and rendered it highly sensitive to PGT121.
  • the legend listed in Fig 9M is applicable to all panels in this figure.
  • Fig. 9N shows summary of expression and binding data for various optimized designs expressed as SOSIP designs. Various non-limiting embodiments of SOSIP designs are shown in Figures 3 and 4.
  • Fig. 90 shows SET OPT & UCA OPT constructs expressed as chimeric CH505- BG505 SOSIPs. Different constructs tested with varying quality & expression.
  • Fig. 9P depicts three classes of sites in the CH505 TF considered for mutation to increase sensitivity'.
  • Fig. 9Q depicts the mutations present in the CH505 V2 initial design (CH505 TF V2 SET OPT).
  • Fig. 9R depicts the additional mutations present in the CH505 TF UCA OPT1.
  • Fig. 9S shows a summary of the neutralization data.
  • the table shows that introduction of V2 apex mature signatures in CH505 TF improved sensitivity to mature bNAbs, and gained sensitivity to CHOI UCA — SET OPT column. Introduction of UCA signatures further improved sensitivity to mature bNAbs. to CHOI UCA and gained sensitivity to PCT64 LMCA — UCA OPT column.
  • the UCA OPT label shows UCA OPT2 + N332— the slope of the curve where the curve for CH505 UCA OPT2 + N332 is bending for the PCT64LMCA, whereas it is not for PG9RUA. This indicates that when measured the neutralization up to 250ug/ml, 50% neutralization could be reached at 105ug/ml.
  • WT refers to CH505 TF sequences without optimization signatures.
  • Figures 10A-10D depict results of second round of designs.
  • Fig. 10A depicts longitudinal Env evolution data demonstrating escape predominantly at particular amino acid.
  • Fig. 10B depicts D167N association with escape from early (13 month) PCT64 lineage Abs.
  • Fig. IOC depicts M4C054‘s sensitivity to PCT64-LMCA with glycan deletions at 130 and 133.
  • Fig. 10D depicts CH505.V2UCAOPT.v3.D167N design and neutralization testing.
  • Figures 11A-11F depict CAM13RRK V2 UCA development.
  • Fig. 11A depicts CAM13 mutated at R-169, R-170 and K-171 (‘CAM13RRK’) is sensitive to CHOI, PG9 and PG16 UCAs.
  • Fig. 11B depicts signatures for CAM13RRK.
  • Fig. 11C depicts design construct CAM13RRK delVl reducing the hypervariable V 1 loop length.
  • Fig. 11 D depicts modifications of the natural loops to introduce deletions and positive charges.
  • Fig. HE depicts CAM13RRK glycan holes.
  • Fig. 1 IF depicts results from neutralization testing.
  • Figures 12A-12H depict CAP256SU based Env designs.
  • Fig. 12A depicts month 35 Abs (35B, 35D, 35G, 350 and 35S; no 35M since on a different branch) signature sites.
  • Fig. 12B depicts several other identified signatures.
  • Fig. l2C depicts a sorted list of the 208 global virus panel based on most charge per unit hypervariable VI or hypervariable V2 length.
  • Fig. 12D depicts the M-group distributions of VI, V2 and V 1+V2 length and charge with CAP256SU WT (each in blue, medians in red and constructs in purple).
  • Fig. 12E depicts CAP256SU design including 10 mutations.
  • Fig. 12F depicts sequences of SHIV CAP256SU, CAP256SU UCA OPT.
  • Fig. 12G depicts neutralization of VR26UCA or VRC26.25, CHOI or CHOI RUA, PG9 or PG9999 RUA, PG16 or PG16 RUA, PCT64 LMCA or PCT64, or Rh- 1A or RhA-1 neutralization by CAP256SU_V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R_UCA or CAP256SU_V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R_maturebNAb.
  • Fig. 12H depicts CAP256SU constructs and glycan shield filling.
  • Figure 13 shows non-limiting embodiments of ammo acid sequences listed in Table 2. These sequences comprise a signal peptide. A skilled artisan understands that any form of a recombinantly expressed protein based on these designs does not include a signal peptide which removed during cell processing.
  • Figure 14 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens -sortase designs.
  • Figures 15A to 15 J show rationale and design for a cocktail of V2 apex bNAb germline targeting Envelopes comprising optimized CAP256_wk34.80 based envelopes.
  • Fig. 15A depicts a predicted CAP256UCAOPT v3 structure.
  • Fig. 15B depicts an improved hypervariable VI loop.
  • Fig. 15C depicts an improved hypervariable V2 loop.
  • Fig. 15D depicts the glycan holes of CAP256wk34.80.
  • Fig. 15E depicts possible PCT64UCA escape mutations.
  • Fig. 15F depicts the predicted structure of PCT64 UCA interacting with a positively charged region (light chain) of the hypervariable V2 loop.
  • Fig. 15A depicts a predicted CAP256UCAOPT v3 structure.
  • Fig. 15B depicts an improved hypervariable VI loop.
  • Fig. 15C depicts an improved hypervariable V2 loop.
  • FIG. 15G depicts variation in PCT64 Envs.
  • Fig. 15H depicts a summary of the designs.
  • Fig. 151 depicts neutralization testing experimental data for V2 apex UCA neutralization.
  • Fig. 15J depicts construct designs CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_D167N and CAP256SU_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K.
  • Figure 16 shows amino acid sequences of non-limiting embodiments of optimized envelopes.
  • Figure 17 shows amino acid sequences and nucleic acid sequences encoding amino acid sequences of non-limiting embodiments of optimized envelopes.
  • HV 1303230 to HV1303254 are gp!50 and gpl60 mRNA constructs designed for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_v4.0.
  • Figures 18A-18F depict examples and sequences for development of improved constructs and mRNAs
  • Fig. 18A depicts the CAM13RRK + K168R (CAM13RRRK) construct reactivity tests.
  • Fig. 18B depicts the CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_R171K reactivity to several UCAs.
  • Fig. 18C depicts HIV-1 CAP256SU with all CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 backbone mutations introduced reactivity test.
  • Fig. 18D depicts the CAP256 wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171K construct reactivity tests.
  • Fig. 18A depicts the CAM13RRK + K168R (CAM13RRRK) construct reactivity tests.
  • Fig. 18B depicts the CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_R171K reactivity to several UCAs.
  • Fig. 18C depicts HIV-1
  • FIG. 18E depicts the SOSIP mutations of strategy 1 for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 mRNA designs.
  • Fig. 18F depicts the alignment of sequences for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; and mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; is depicted in Fig. 18 F. Dots indicate deletions and dashes indicate identities.
  • Figure 19 discloses exemplary mRNA sequences encoding an immunogen.
  • Figure 20 discloses depict examples and sequences for development of improved constructs and mRNAs.
  • Figure discloses amino acid and nucleic acid sequences for HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi,
  • Additional exemplary mRNA sequences encoding an immunogen are also disclosed along with the amino acid sequence of the encoded immunogen. The signal sequence is underlined in the amino acid sequences.
  • Figure 21 discloses exemplary nucleotide sequences encoding an immunogen.
  • Figure 22 discloses exemplary amino acid sequences encoding an immunogen.
  • HIV-1 vaccine development field has used single or prime boost heterologous Envs as immunogens, but to date has not found a regimen to induce high levels of bnAbs.
  • nucleic and amino acids sequences of HIV-1 envelopes are in any suitable form.
  • the described HIV-1 envelope sequences are gpl60s.
  • the described HIV-1 envelope sequences are gpl20s.
  • sequences for example but not limited to stable SOSIP trimer designs, gpl45s, gpl40s, both cleaved and uncleaved, gpl40 Envs with the deletion of the cleavage (C) site, fusion (F) and immunodominant (I) region in gp41- named as gpl40ACFI (gpl40CFI), gpl40 Envs with the deletion of only the cleavage (C) site and fusion (F) domain — named as gpl40ACF (gpl40CF), gpl40 Envs with the deletion of only the cleavage (C) — named gpl40AC (gpl40C) (See e.g.
  • nucleic acid sequences are codon optimized for optimal expression in a host cell, for example a mammalian cell, a rBCG cell or any other suitable expression system.
  • An HIV-1 envelope has various structurally defined fragments/forms: gpl60; gpl40— -including cleaved gpl40 and uncleaved gpl40 (gpl40C), gpl40CF, or gpl40CFI; gpl20 and gp41.
  • gpl60 cleaved gpl40 and uncleaved gpl40
  • gpl40CF cleaved gpl40CF
  • gpl40CFI cleaved gpl40CFI
  • gpl20 and gp41 cleaved gpl40
  • gpl40C cleaved gpl40 and uncleaved gpl40
  • gpl40CF cleaved gpl40CF
  • gpl40CFI gpl20 and gp41.
  • gpl40 envelope forms are also well known in the art, along with the various specific changes which give rise to the gpl40C (uncleaved envelope), gpl40CF and gpl40CFI forms.
  • Envelope gpl40 forms are designed by introducing a stop codon within the gp41 sequence. See Chakrabarti et al. at Figure 1.
  • Envelope gpl40C refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a functional deletion of the cleavage (C) site, so that the gpl40 envelope is not cleaved at the furin cleavage site.
  • C cleavage
  • RRVVEREKR SEQ ID NO: X
  • ERVVEREKE SEQ ID NO: X
  • SEKS SEKS
  • Envelope gpl40CF refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a deletion of the cleavage (C) site and fusion (F) region.
  • Envelope gpl40CFI refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a deletion of the cleavage (C) site, fusion (F) and immunodominant (I) region in gp41. See Chakrabarti et al. Journal of Virology' vol. 76, pp. 5357-5368 (2002) see for example Figure 1, and Second paragraph in the Introduction on p. 5357; Binley et al.
  • the envelope design in accordance with the present invention involves deletion of residues (e.g., 5-11, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 amino acids) at the N- terminus.
  • residues e.g., 5-11, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 amino acids
  • amino acid residues ranging from 4 residues or even fewer to 14 residues or even more are deleted.
  • the invention relates generally to an immunogen, gpl60, gpl20 or gpl40, without an N-terminal Herpes Simplex gD tag substituted for amino acids of the N-terminus of gpl20, with an HIV leader sequence (or other leader sequence), and without the original about 4 to about 25, for example 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 amino acids of the N-terminus of the envelope (e.g. gpl20).
  • HIV leader sequence or other leader sequence
  • N-terminal amino acids of envelopes results in proteins, for example gpl20s, expressed in mammalian cells that are primarily monomeric, as opposed to dimeric, and, therefore, solves the production and seal ability problem of commercial gpl20 Env vaccine production.
  • the amino acid deletions at the N-terminus result in increased immunogenicity of the envelopes.
  • the invention provides composition and methods which CH505 Envs, as gpl20s, gpl40s cleaved and uncleaved, gpl45s, gpl50s and gpl60s, stabilized and/or multimerized trimers, as proteins, DNAs, RNAs. or any combination thereof, administered as primes and boosts to elicit immune response.
  • CH505 Envs as proteins would be co-administered with nucleic acid vectors containing Envs to amplify antibody induction.
  • the compositions and methods include any immunogenic HIV-1 sequences to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction.
  • the compositions and methods include mosaic and/or consensus HIV-1 genes to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction.
  • the compositions and methods include mosaic group M and/or consensus genes to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction.
  • the mosaic genes are any suitable gene from the HIV-1 genome.
  • the mosaic genes are Env genes, Gag genes, Pol genes, Nef genes, or any combination thereof. See e.g. US Patent No. 7951377.
  • the mosaic genes are bivalent mosaics. In some embodiments the mosaic genes are trivalent.
  • the mosaic genes are administered in a suitable vector with each immunization with Env gene inserts in a suitable vector and/or as a protein.
  • the mosaic genes for example as bivalent mosaic Gag group M consensus genes, are administered in a suitable vector, for example but not limited to HSV2. would be administered with each immunization with Env gene inserts in a suitable vector, for example but not limited to HSV-2.
  • the invention provides compositions and methods of Env genetic immunization either alone or with Env proteins to recreate the swarms of evolved viruses that have led to bnAb induction.
  • Nucleotide-based vaccines offer a flexible vector format to immunize against virtually any protein antigen.
  • DNAs and mRNAs are available for testing.
  • the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as DNA. See Graham BS, Enama ME, Nason MC, Gordon IJ, Peel SA, et al. (2013) DNA Vaccine Delivered by aNeedle-Free Injection Device Improves Potency of Priming for Antibody and CD8+ T-Cell Responses after rAd5 Boost in a Randomized Clinical Trial. PLoS ONE 8(4): e59340, page 9.
  • Various technologies for delivery of nucleic acids, as DNA and/or RNA. so as to elicit immune response, both T-cell and humoral responses, are known in the art and are under developments.
  • DNA can be delivered as naked DNA.
  • DNA is formulated for delivery by a gene gun.
  • DNA is administered by electroporation, or by a needle-free injection technologies, for example but not limited to Biojector® device.
  • the DNA is inserted in vectors.
  • the DNA is delivered using a suitable vector for expression in mammalian cells.
  • the nucleic acids encoding the envelopes are optimized for expression.
  • DNA is optimized, e.g. codon optimized, for expression.
  • the nucleic acids are optimized for expression in vectors and/or in mammalian cells. In non-limiting embodiments these are bacterially derived vectors, adenovirus based vectors, rAdenovirus (e.g.
  • MV A modified vaccinia Ankara
  • VEE Venezuelan equine encephalitis
  • Herpes Simplex Virus vectors and other suitable vectors.
  • the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as DNA or RNA in suitable formulations.
  • DNA or RNA is administered as nanoparticles consisting of low dose antigen-encoding DNA formulated with a block copolymer (amphiphilic block copolymer 704). See Cany et al.. Journal of Hepatology 2011 vol. 54 j 115-121; Amaoty et al., Chapter 17 in Yves Bigot (ed.), Mobile Genetic Elements: Protocols and Genomic Applications, Methods in Molecular Biology, vol.
  • Nanocarrier technologies called Nanotaxi® for immunogenic macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Protein) delivery are under development. See for example technologies developed by incellart.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids comprising sequences encoding envelopes of the invention.
  • the nucleic acids are DNAs.
  • the nucleic acids are mRNAs.
  • the invention provides expression vectors comprising the nucleic acids of the invention.
  • the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising mRNAs encoding the inventive antibodies. In certain embodiments, these are optionally formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In certain embodiments, the mRNAs are modified. Modifications include without limitations modified ribonucleotides, poly-A tail, 5’cap.
  • Nucleic acid sequences provided herein, e.g. see Figure 19, 20, are provided as DNA sequences. However, it should be understood that such sequences also represent RNA sequences, for example, mRNA.
  • RNA polymerase can be used to make RNA sequences from DNA sequences.
  • thymine will be uridine.
  • uridine will be 1-methyl-pseudouridine.
  • nucleic acids of the invention, including RNA sequences or mRNAs can further comprise any type of modified nucleotides, including, but not limited to 5-methyl-cytidine. 6-methyl-adenosine. or modified uridine.
  • Nucleic acid sequences provided herein, e.g. see Figure 19, 20, are provided with a poly A tail length of 101 nucleotides.
  • mRNA sequences can comprise different lengths of poly A tail.
  • the poly A tail is about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long.
  • the poly A tail is 85 to 200 nucleotides long.
  • the poly A tail is about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the poly A tail is 85 to 110 nucleotides long.
  • the poly A tail is about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long.
  • the poly A tail is 90 to 110 nucleotides long.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids encoding the inventive envelopes.
  • the nucleic acids are mRNA. modified or unmodified, suitable for any use, e.g. but not limited to use as pharmaceutical compositions.
  • the nucleic acids are formulated in lipid, such as but not limited to LNPs.
  • the antibodies are administered as nucleic acids, including but not limited to mRNAs which could be modified and/or unmodified. See US Pub 20180028645A1, US Pub 20090286852, US Pub 20130111615, US Pub 20130197068, US Pub 20130261172, US Pub 20150038558, US Pub 20160032316, US Pub 20170043037. US Pub 20170327842. US Patent 10,006,007, US Patent 9,371.511, US Patent 9.012,219, US Pub 20180265848.
  • mRNAs delivered in LNP formulations have advantages over non-LNPs formulations. See US Pub 20180028645A1, US Pub 20190274968, US Pub 20180303925, wherein each content is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
  • nucleic acid encoding an envelope is operably linked to a promoter inserted an expression vector.
  • compositions comprise a suitable carrier.
  • compositions comprise a suitable adjuvant.
  • the invention provides an expression vector comprising any of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the invention provides an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter.
  • the nucleic acids are codon optimized for expression in a mammalian cell, in vivo or in vitro.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids consisting essentially of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the invention provides nucleic acids consisting of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention.
  • the nucleic acid of the invention is operably linked to a promoter and is inserted in an expression vector.
  • the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the expression vector.
  • the invention provides a composition comprising at least one of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding any one of the polypeptides of the invention.
  • the nucleic acid is an RNA molecule.
  • the RNA molecule is transcribed from a DNA sequence described herein.
  • the RNA molecule is encoded by one of the inventive sequences.
  • the nucleotide sequence comprises an RNA sequence transcribed by a DNA sequence encoding the polypeptide sequence of the sequences of the invention, or a variant thereof or a fragment thereof.
  • the invention provides an RNA molecule encoding one or more of inventive antibodies.
  • the RNA may be plus-stranded. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the RNA molecule can be translated by cells without needing any intervening replication steps such as reverse transcription.
  • a RNA molecule of the invention may have a 5' cap (e.g. but not limited to a 7-methylguanosine, 7mG(5')ppp(5')NlmpNp, CleanCap® (e.g., the AG, GG. AU, 3’OMe AG, or 3’OMe GG CleanCap®), or ARCA).
  • This cap can enhance in vivo translation of the RNA.
  • the 5' nucleotide of an RNA molecule useful with the invention may have a 5' triphosphate group. In a capped RNA this may be linked to a 7-methylguanosine via a 5'-to-5' bridge.
  • a RNA molecule may have a 3' poly-A tail. It may also include a poly -A polymerase recognition sequence (e.g. AAUAAA) near its 3' end.
  • a RNA molecule useful with the invention may be single-stranded.
  • a RNA molecule useful with the invention may comprise synthetic RNA.
  • the recombinant nucleic acid sequence can be an optimized nucleic acid sequence. Such optimization can increase or alter the immunogenicity of the envelope. Optimization can also improve transcription and/or translation. Optimization can include one or more of the following: low GC content leader sequence to increase transcription; mRNA stability and codon optimization; addition of a Kozak sequence (e.g.. GCC ACC) for increased translation; addition of an immunoglobulin (Ig) leader sequence encoding a signal peptide; and eliminating to the extent possible cis-acting sequence motifs (i.e.. internal TATA boxes).
  • Methods for in vitro transfection of mRNA and detection of envelope expression are known in the art.
  • the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as recombinant proteins.
  • V arious methods for production and purification of recombinant proteins, including trimers such as but not limited to SOSIP based trimers, suitable for use in immunization are known in the art.
  • recombinant proteins are produced in CHO cells.
  • the immunogenic envelopes can also be administered as a protein boost in combination with a variety' of nucleic acid envelope primes (e.g., HIV -1 Envs delivered as DNA expressed in viral or bacterial vectors).
  • nucleic acid envelope primes e.g., HIV -1 Envs delivered as DNA expressed in viral or bacterial vectors.
  • a single dose of nucleic acid can range from a few nanograms (ng) to a few micrograms (pg) or milligram of a single immunogenic nucleic acid.
  • Recombinant protein dose can range from a few' pg micrograms to a few' hundred micrograms, or milligrams of a single immunogenic polypeptide.
  • compositions can be formulated with appropriate carriers using known techniques to yield compositions suitable for various routes of administration.
  • the compositions are delivered via intramuscular (IM), via subcutaneous, via intravenous, via nasal, via mucosal routes, or any other suitable route of immunization.
  • compositions can be formulated with appropriate carriers and adjuvants using techniques to yield compositions suitable for immunization.
  • the compositions can include an adjuvant, such as, for example but not limited to, alum, 3M052, poly IC, MF-59 or other squalene-based adjuvant, ASOIB, or other liposomal based adjuvant suitable for protein or nucleic acid immunization.
  • the adjuvant is GSK AS01E adjuvant containing MPL and QS21.
  • TLR agonists are used as adjuvants.
  • adjuvants which break immune tolerance are included in the immunogenic compositions.
  • compositions and methods comprise any suitable agent or immune modulation which could modulate mechanisms of host immune tolerance and release of the induced antibodies.
  • modulation includes PD-1 blockade; T regulatory cell depletion; CD40L hyperstimulation; soluble antigen administration, wherein the soluble antigen is designed such that the soluble agent eliminates B cells targeting dominant epitopes, or a combination thereof.
  • an immunomodulatory agent is administered in at time and in an amount sufficient for transient modulation of the subject's immune response so as to induce an immune response which comprises broad neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 envelope.
  • Non-limiting examples of such agents is any one of the agents described herein: e.g.
  • the modulation includes administering an anti-CTLA4 antibody.
  • Non-limiting examples are ipilimumab and tremelimumab.
  • the methods comprise administering a second immunomodulatory agent, wherein the second and first immunomodulatory agents are different.
  • BnAb knock-in mouse models are providing insights into the various mechanisms of tolerance control of MP ER BnAb induction (deletion, anergy, receptor editing). Other variations of tolerance control likely will be operative in limiting BnAbs with long HCDR3s, high levels of somatic hypermutations.
  • envelope glycoproteins referenced in various examples and figures comprise a signal/leader sequence.
  • HIV- 1 envelope glycoprotein is a secretory protein with a signal or leader peptide sequence that is removed during processing and recombinant expression (without removal of the signal peptide, the protein is not secreted). See for example Li et al. Control of expression, glycosylation, and secretion of HIV- 1 gp!20 by homologous and heterologous signal sequences.
  • the leader sequence is the endogenous leader sequence. Most of the gpl20 and gpl60 amino acid sequences include the endogenous leader sequence. In other non-limiting examples, the leader sequence is human Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TP A) sequence, human CD5 leader sequence (e g.
  • MPMGSLQPLATLYLLGMLVASVLA SEQ ID NO: X.
  • Most of the chimeric designs include CD5 leader sequence.
  • This example shows that stabilized HIV-1 Env trimer immunogens show enhanced antigenicity for broadly neutralizing antibodies and are not recognized by non-neutralizing antibodies.
  • the example also describes additional envelope modifications and designs.
  • these envelopes, including but not limited to trimers are further multimerized, and/or used as particulate, high-density array in liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles. Any one of the envelopes of the invention could be designed and expressed as described herein.
  • a stabilized chimeric SOSIP designs were used to generate CH505 trimers. This design was applicable to diverse viruses from multiple clades.
  • Neutralizing antibodies target the native trimeric HIV-1 Env on the surface virions.
  • the trimeric HIV-1 envelope protein consists of three protomers each containing a gpl20 and gp41 heterodimer.
  • Recent immunogen design efforts have generated soluble near-native mimics of the Env trimer that bind to neutralizing antibodies but not non-neutralizing antibodies.
  • the recapitulation of the native trimer could be a key component of vaccine induction of neutralizing antibodies.
  • Neutralizing Abs target the native trimeric HIV-1 Env on the surface of viruses (Poignard et al. J Virol. 2003 Jan;77(l):353-65; Parren et al. J Virol.
  • the HIV-1 Env protein consists of three protomers of gp!20 and gp41 heterodimers that are noncovalently linked together (Center et al. J Virol. 2002 Aug;76(15):7863-7.). Soluble near-native trimers preferentially bind neutralizing antibodies as opposed to non-neutralizing antibodies (Sanders et al. PLoS Pathog. 2013 Sep; 9(9): el 003618).
  • Sequential Env vaccination has elicited broad neutralization in the plasma of one macaque.
  • the overall goal of our project is to increase the frequency of vaccine induction of bnabs in the plasma of primates with Env vaccination.
  • vaccination with immunogens that target bnAb B cell lineage and mimic native trimers will increase the frequency of broadly neutralizing plasma antibodies.
  • One goal is increasing the frequency of vaccine induction of bnAb in the plasma of primates by Env vaccination. It is expected that vaccination with immunogens that target bnAb B cell lineages and mimic the native trimers on virions will increase the frequency of broadly neutralizing plasma antibodies.
  • Near-native soluble trimers using the 6R.SOSIP.664 design are capable of generating autologous tier 2 neutralizing plasma antibodies in the plasma (Sanders et al. 2015), which provides a starting point for designing immunogens to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies. While these trimers are preferentially antigenic for neutralizing antibodies, they still possess the ability to expose the V3 loop, which generally results in strain-specific binding and neutralizing antibodies after vaccination.
  • the BG505.6R.SOSIP.664 has been stabilized by adding cysteines at position 201 and 433 to constrain the conformational flexibility such that the V3 loop is maintained unexposed (Kwon et al. Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2015 Jul; 22(7): 522-531.).
  • [0150] Provided are engineered trimeric immunogens derived from multiple viruses from CH505.
  • the 6R.SOSIP.664 is the basis for all of these designs and is made as a chimera of C.CH0505 and A.BG505.
  • the gpl20 of C.CH505 was fused with the BG505 inner domain gpl20 sequence within the alpha helix 5 (a5) to result in the chimeric protein.
  • the chimeric gpl20 is disulfide linked to the A.BG505 gp41 as outlined by Sanders et al. (PLoS Pathog. 2013 Sep; 9(9): el003618).
  • any other suitable envelope for example but not limited to CH505 envelopes as described in US Patent 10,004,800, incorporated herein by reference, can be designed.
  • Other suitable envelopes include, but are not limited to. CAP256SU, CAP256wk34.80, CAMB, Q23, an T250 envelopes.
  • Recombinant envelopes as trimers could be produced and purified by any suitable method.
  • purification methods see Ringe RP, Yasmeen A, Ozorowski G, Go EP, Pritchard LK, Guttman M, Ketas TA, Cottrell CA, Wilson IA, Sanders RW, Cupo A, Crispin M, Lee KK. Desaire H, Ward AB, Klasse PJ. Moore JP. 2015.
  • envelopes including but not limited to trimers as particulate, high-density array on liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles. See e.g. He et al. Nature Communications 7, Article number: 12041 (2016), doi : 10.1038/ncomms 12041;
  • envelope designed can be created to wherein the envelope is presented on particles, e.g. but not limited to nanoparticle.
  • the HIV-1 Envelope trimer could be fused to ferritin.
  • Ferritin protein self assembles into a small nanoparticle with three fold axis of symmetry'. At these axes the envelope protein is fused. Therefore, the assembly of the threefold axis also clusters three HIV-1 envelope protomers together to form an envelope trimer.
  • Each ferritin particle has 8 axes which equates to 8 trimers being displayed per particle. See e.g. Sliepen et al. Retrovirology201512:82, DOI: 10.1186/sl2977-015-0210-4.
  • ferritin sequences are disclosed in US Patent 10,961,283, incorporated herein by reference.
  • Ferritin nanoparticle linkers The ability to form HIV-1 envelope ferritin nanoparticles relies self-assembly of 24 ferritin subunits into a single ferritin nanoparticle. The addition of a ferritin subunit to the C-terminus of HIV-1 envelope may interfere with the ability of the ferritin subunit to fold properly and or associate with other ferritin subunits. When expressed alone ferritin readily forms 24-subunit nanoparticles, however appending it to envelope only yields nanoparticles for certain envelopes. Since the ferritin nanoparticle forms in the absence of envelope, the envelope could be sterically hindering the association of ferritin subunits.
  • the goal will be to find a linker length that is suitable for formation of envelope nanoparticles when ferritin is appended to most envelopes. Any suitable linker between the envelope and ferritin could be uses, so long as the fusion protein is expressed and the trimer is formed.
  • FIG. 5A-B Non-limiting embodiments of envelope designs for use in Sortase A reaction are shown in Figures 5A-B and Figure 14 and Figures 21 and 22.
  • the trimers can then be embedded into liposomes via the conjugated cholesterol.
  • To conjugate the trimer to cholesterol either a C-terminal LPXTG tag or a N-terminal pentaglycine repeat tag is added to the envelope trimer gene. Cholesterol is also synthesized with these two tags. Sortase A is then used to covalently bond the tagged envelope to the cholesterol.
  • the sortase A-tagged trimer protein can also be used to conjugate the trimer to other peptides, proteins, or fluorescent labels.
  • the sortase A tagged trimers are conjugated to ferritin to form nanoparticles. Any suitable ferritin can be used.
  • the invention provides design of envelopes and trimer designs wherein the envelope comprises a linker which permits addition of a lipid, such as but not limited to cholesterol, via a Sortase A reaction.
  • a Sortase A reaction See e g. Tsukiji, S. and Nagamune, T. (2009), Sortase-Mediated Ligation: A Gift from Gram-Positive Bacteria to Protein Engineering. ChemBioChem, 10: 787-798. Doi: 10. 1002/cbic.200800724; Proft. T. Sortase-mediated protein ligation: an emerging biotechnology tool for protein modification and 36mmobilization. Biotechnol Lett (2010) 32: 1.
  • lipid modified envelopes and trimers could be formulated as liposomes. Any suitable liposome composition is contemplated.
  • lipid modified and multimerized envelopes and trimers could be formulated as liposomes. Any suitable liposome composition is contemplated.
  • chim.6R.DS.SOSIP.664 is SOSIP.I
  • CHIM.6R.SOSIP.664 is SOSIP.II
  • CHIM.6R.SOSIP.664V4.1 is SOSIP.III.
  • the CH505 HIV-1 virus has been subject to intensive study as a vaccine reagent based on the observation that during the course of the natural CH505 HIV-1 infection, potent broadly neutralizing antibodies were generated by the host that targeted the CD4bs region.
  • an immunogen based on the surprising finding that the HIV-1 CH505 transmitted-founder (TF) virus Envelopes, when used as vaccine, have the capacity to induce V2 apex directed heterologous neutralizing antibody responses. This has been observed in a knoc — in mice, rabbits and rhesus macaques, and in one CH505 SHIV infected macaque.
  • CH505 TF Envelope can elicit V2 apex neutralizing antibody responses, it is not particularly sensitive to mature V2 apex bNAbs and is not neutralized by putative V2 apex bNAb precursors. We hypothesized that these factors could be limit the successful V2 apex bNAb induction, and that CH505 TF variants with improved sensitivity to V2 apex mature and precursor antibodies might serve as better immunogens.
  • V2 optimization yvas successful in improving sensitivity to all mature V2 apex bNAbs and for 2 out of 6 UCAs tested (CHOI and PCT64).
  • a further round of iterative design optimization yvas carried out to improve reactivity against the remaining 4 UCAs.
  • These designs introduced three mutations H130D. K169R and Q170R.
  • the first mutation was based on the consideration that D-130 yvas a sensitivity signature for PCT64 UCA (while H-130 yvas sensitivity' signature for CH04 UCA) and yvas introduced yvith the aim of improving sensitivity to PCT64 UCA.
  • the K169R and Q170R mutations were introduced with the aim of improving sensitivity’ to PG9 and PG16 UCAs. Both of these mutations were found to improve the PG9 and PG16 UCAs in the background of an SIV strain, while the latter Q170R was also found to be the strongest sensitivity signature associated with sensitivity to fully germline reverted PG9 antibody (both heavy and light chains reverted) in the PG9 epitope. Introduction of these 3 mutations in the context of CH505.TF.V2UCA.OPT2.N332 was found to improve sensitivity to PG9 and PG16 UCAs, while retaining sensitivity to CHOI and PCT64 UCAs and to all mature V2 apex bNAbs.
  • these vaccines are being expressed as chimeric SOSIP proteins, and so have CH505 TF gpl20s, with a BG505 gp41 that end at HIV-1 HXB2 numbering position 664.
  • SOSIP proteins are modified Env proteins that are stabilized for expression as native-like soluble trimers.
  • Table 1 shows V2 Optimized CH505 TF immunogens
  • Non-limiting embodiments of sequences of the envelopes in Table 1 are described in Figures 3, 4, and 5 shows non-limiting embodiments of multimerization designs, including ferritin and/or sortase, which could be used as guidance to design V2OPT CH505T/F designs.
  • Figures 4C-D see Table 2 below
  • CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2 envelope sequence is shown as a gp 160 envelope. This V2 optimized design could be used as the basis to design any suitable protomer, wherein in non-limiting embodiments the protomer can form stabilized trimer.
  • Non-limiting designs of envelope protomers include SOSIP designs, designs comprising F14 mutations (See US Pub 20210379177, incorporated herein by reference), and so forth.
  • any of the envelope designs including without limitation designs in Figures 3, 4, or 5, could comprise mutations H130D, K169R and/or Q170R.
  • Table 2 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens. See Figure 4C- 4D, 13, 16, 17 and 20.
  • Figure 5 shows non-limiting embodiments of multimerization designs, including ferritin and/or sortase, which could be used as guidance to design any of the envelopes in Table 2 or 4 as multimeric designs.
  • CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2 envelope sequence is shown as a gpl60 envelope.
  • This V2 optimized design could be used as the basis to design any suitable protomer, wherein in non-limiting embodiments the protomer can form a stabilized trimer.
  • Non-limiting designs of envelope protomers include SOSIP designs, designs comprising F14 mutations (SeeUS Pub 20210379177, incorporated herein by reference), and so forth.
  • Table 3 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens — sortase design.
  • trimer could be incorporated in a nanoparticle, including without limitation any ferritin-based nanoparticle.
  • any of the immunogens herein may be encoded by a nucleic acid.
  • Figures 4A, 4D, 5 A. 5B, 5E, 14, 17, 20 and 21 provide non-limiting examples of nucleic acids encoding an immunogen.
  • the nucleic acid may be a DNA, an RNA, or an mRNA.
  • Non-limiting examples of mRNA nucleic acids encoding an immunogen of the present technology include, but are not limited to, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0.A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coA.Q23_17CHIM.SOSIPV5.2.8 293F (HV1301552)-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coCAP256.wk34.c80 SOSIP.RnS2 (HV 1303049)- Al 01, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coCAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCAOPT_v3.0 SOSIP.RnS2(HV1303050)-A101, 2560_pUC- ccTEV-coHV 1303230- Al 01 , 2560_pUC-ccTE
  • ⁇ 7121 includes a Y712I substitution. Without being bound by theory, this modification increase expression of Env on cell surface. See Labranche et al. J. Virol. 69(9):5217-5227 (1995). • Sodroski includes substitutions H66A, A582T, and L587A. Without being bound by theory, this modification prevents CD4-induced conformations. See Pacheco et al. J Virol. 91 (5): e02219-16 (2017).
  • F14 includes substitutions A204V, V208L, V68I, and V255L. Without being bound by theory, this modification prevents CD4-induced conformations. See Henderson et al. Nat Commun. 11 : 520 (2020).
  • SOSIPin includes substitutions A501C, T605C, and I559P. Without being bound by theory 7 , this modification stabilizes prefusion conformation. See Sanders et al. J. Virol. 76. 8875-8889 (2002).
  • SOS includes substitutions A501C and T605C. Without being bound by theory, this modification stabilizes prefusion conformation. See Sanders et al. J. Virol. 76, 8875- 8889 (2002).
  • RnS includes substitutions E442N, S437P, A204I, I573F, K588E, D589V, Y609P, K651F, S655I, and I535N. It replaces rare and/or destabilizing mutations from wildty pe Env. (Specific to CAP256wk34.80 Env, but we also used for CAP256SU based on its high similarity to the former. Due to conflict with F14 mutation A204V, when RnS are combined with Fl 4, the A204V in F14 was used. ). See Gorman J., et al. Cell Reports 31(1): 107488 (2020).
  • Signal Peptide #1 replaces wildtype signal peptide with MAISGVPVLGFFIIAVLMSAQESWA (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification improves expression of mRNA constructs.
  • Glycine-Serine linker #1 replace 508-REKR-511 yvith GGGGSGGGGS (SEQ ID NO: X), a flexible linker between gp!20 & gp41 to replace furin cleavage. Also referred to as modification "L”. See Sharma S.K., et al. Cell Reports 11 (4): 539-550 (2015).
  • RRRRRR replaces 508-REKR-51 1 with RRRRRR and replaces native furin cleavage site with a modified furin cleavage sequence between gpl20 & gp41. Without being bound by theory, this modification increases cleavage frequency. Also referred to as modification "6R or R6". See Ringe RP et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2013 Nov 5: 110(45):18256-61.
  • SIVMac CT replaces wildtype cytoplasmic tail (HXB2 713-854) with truncated SIVMac cytoplasmic tail RPVFSSPPSYFQ (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification improves expression of Env on cell-surface when expressed by mRNA immunogens. See Postler T.S., Desrosiers R.C. J. Virol. K . - 15 (2013).
  • GS replaces sequence from HXB2 546-568 with GSAGSAGSGSAGSGSAGSGSAGS (SEQ ID NO: X) and replaces the unstable portion (23 amino acids) of envelope heptad repeat 1 with a flexible linker of equivalent size. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
  • T316W includes substitution T316W. Without being bound by theory', this modification includes hydrophobic amino acid in the V3 loop to facilitate packing of the V3 loop and prevent unwanted exposure. See de Taeye SW, Ozorowski G, Torrents de la Pena A, et al. Cell. 2015;163(7): 1702-1715.
  • I535M includes substitution I535M. Without being bound by theory', this modification stabilizes of the interprotomer contacts in gp41. See de Taeye SW, Ozorowski G, Torrents de la Pena A, et al. Cell. 2015; 163(7): 1702-1715.
  • deltaG deletes HIV-1 envelope Glycine at position 29. Without being bound by theory', this modification presumes Glycine 29 to be the final amino acid in the signal peptide. Glycine 29 is removed when an artificial signal sequence is added. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
  • LL855/6AA includes substitutions L855A and L856A. Without being bound by theory', this modification is a mutation of a conserved dileucine motif that mediates endocytosis of HIV- 1 envelope. Without being bound by theory, when combined with Y712I boosts surface expression of HIV- 1 envelope. See By land R et al. Mol Biol Cell. 2007 Feb; 18(2)414-25. • IGHVss replace wildtype signal peptide with MGWSCIILFLVATATGVHA (SEQ ID NO: X). a mouse immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region signal sequence. Without being bound by theory, this modification enhances protein secretion from cells. UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot Accession Number P01750. Also referred as "mlgss”. See Cheng KW et al. Biochem J. 2021;478(12):2309-2319.
  • BPrlss replaces wildtype signal peptide with MDSKGSSQKGSRLLLLLVVSNLLLPQGVLA (SEQ ID NO: X), a bovine prolactin signal sequence. Without being bound by theory', this modification enhances protein secretion from cells. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
  • PC includes substitutions S655K and K658Q. Without being bound by theory, this modification includes contact amino acids between envelope protomers. Without being bound by theory, this modification stabilizes sequence found in BG505. Protomer contacts are referred to as "PC”. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
  • H66A includes substitution H66A. Without being bound by theory, substitution in gpl20 that modulates the transition from the unliganded conformation of envelope to the CD4-bound state. See Pacheco B, et al. J Virol. 2017;91(5):e02219-16.
  • 2560 pUC-ccTEV-AlOl 5’UTR includes aGcATAAAAGTCTCAACACAACATATACAAAACAAACGAATCTCAAGCAA TCAAGCATTCTACTTCTATTGCAGCAATTTAAATCATTTCTTTTAAAGCAA AAGCAATTTTCTGAAAATTTTCACCATTTACGAACGATAGCGCT (SEQ ID NO: X).
  • this modification is an improved 5’ UTR sequence for mRNA stability and half-life from screens. See Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh, Drew Weissman et al.
  • 2560 pUC-ccTEV-AlOl 3’UTR includes actagtAGTGACTGACTAGGATCTGGTTACCACTAAACCAGCCTCAAGAACAC CCGAATGGAGTCTCTAAGCTACATAATACCAACTTACACTTACAAAATGTT GTCCCCCAAAATGTAGCCATTCGTATCTGCTCCTAATAAAAAGAAAGTTTC TTCACATTCT (SEQ ID NO: X).
  • this modification is an improved 5' UTR sequence for mRNA stability' and half-life from screens. See Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh, Drew Weissman et al.
  • mRNA codon optimization includes a reverse translation of protein amino acid sequence to optimal codons. Without being bound by theory’, this modification codon optimization is performed as follow: amino acid sequence is reverse translated into an DNA sequence using a modified mammalian codon usage table. The table increases both the CIA and the GC content of the mRNA. The reverse translated sequence (or mRNA sequence) is modeled into mFold and Delta H/Delta G computed, and the sequence with the lowest free energy is selected. In some cases, the codons can be replaced in specific locations to relax the tridimentional structure of the optimized mRNA. The sequence is then cloned between the 5'UTR and 3'UTR above. See Leppek et al. Nature Communications 13: 1536 (2022).
  • the exemplary constructs provided herein include various combinations of these envelope modifications. Any modification or combination of the modifications described herein, including but not limited, to different versions of soluble proteins, different versions of membrane expressed proteins, stabilization mutations, furin cleavage site mutations, signal peptides, and/or cytoplasmic tail modifications can be applied to any full-length envelopes sequence. For example, one or more of the modifications described herein can be applied to envelope CAM13RRK, CAM13RRRK, HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_Y375S_D167N. CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K.
  • 17_V2UCAOPT_GLY_ALT_R170Q, CH505 V2UCAOPT2 N332, CH505_V2UCAOPT_v3.0 comprises one or more of modifications Y712I, Sodroski substitutions. F14 substitutions, SOSIP substitutions, SOS substitutions, DS substitutions, PP substitutions. 3mut substitutions, 2G substitutions, RnS substitutions. Signal Peptide #1, Glysine-Serine linker #1, RRRRRR, SIVMacCT, GS, T316W, I535M, deltaG, LL855/6AA, IGHVss, BPrlss, PC substitutions, or H66A.
  • Table 5 shows exemplary embodiments of non-limiting immunogens.
  • the gp41mut constructs introduce favorable amino acids at 3 sites: 588 and 644 (signature sites for mature V2 apex bNAbs) and 535 (PG9 germline reverted signature).
  • the gp41mut constructs have 3 mutations in gp41: R->K at position 588; G->R at position 644; M->I at position 535.
  • Additional optimized sequences are shown in Figure 4C, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, and 18F, and characterization in Figures 6A and 6B and 8-12, 15, and 18. Additional SOSIPs sequences are shown in Figure 13, 14, 17 , 21 and 22.
  • these immunogens can be used as either single primes and boosts in humanized mice or bnAb UCA or intermediate antibody VH + VL knockin mice, non-human primates (NHPs) or humans, or used in combinations in animal models or in humans.
  • UCA broadly neutralizing antibody
  • bnAbs broadly neutralizing antibody
  • Prime X 3 with either A, B, C, D, G or H (listed in Figures 3, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, or 18F, Table 1).
  • these immunogens could be in any suitable envelope form.
  • these are administered as recombinant protein. Any suitable adjuvant could be use.
  • these are administered as nucleic acids, DNA and/or mRNAs.
  • the mRNAs are modified mRNAs administered as LNPs.
  • the immunogens provide optimal prime for V1V2, and/or CD4 binding site, and/or Fusion Peptide precursors.
  • an optimal prime is determined by measurement of the frequency of bnAb precursors before immunization and after each immunization to determine if the immunization has expanded the desired bnAb B cell precursor pool. This can be performed by initial B cell repertoire analysis by single cell sorting of memory or germinal center B cells (e.g. Bonsignori et al. Sci Transl Med. 2017 Mar 15; 9(381): eaai7514.) and then followed by next generation sequencing of either lymph node, blood or other immune organ B cells to determine if the primed B cell bnAb clones were expanded and therefore boosted.
  • This example shows information and sequences of a second design round. This second round of designs resulted in gains in sensitivity to the CAP256 and PG9/PG16 UCAs.
  • Several signatures had been found for PG9 with only the heavy and/or light chain reverted. However, no PG9 UCA reactivity was identified. Thus, it was hypothesized that the single chain revered PG9 is not a good mimic of the PG9 UCA.
  • H130D + K169R + Q170R mutation displayed slight improvement over UCA OPT2 for CHOI UCA, but was slightly reduced compared to the Q170R mutation.
  • H130D + K169R + Q170R sensitivity was slightly reduced for PCT64 LMCA compared to UCA OPT2.
  • H130D sensitivity for PCT64 LMCA was also reduced, but neutralization was observed at 50% at about lOOpg/ml.
  • This example shows information and sequences of a third design round.
  • the design was directed towards a cocktail of pan V2 apex bNAb germline targeting envelopes.
  • Env signatures were used to design Envs that are sensitive to V2 apex bNAb UCA.
  • the natural Envs CH505.TF, CAP256-SU, CAM13, T250 and Q23 were used as starting templates and improved upon.
  • Figure 8 A shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail are sensitive to all V2 apex UCAs. No single natural or optimized Env is sensitive to each V2 UCAs, so we want to use a cocktail of Envs for multiple V2 apex bNAb germline targeting. Other constructs are still being improved and tested.
  • Fig. 8B shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail are sensitive to all V2 apex UCAs. No single natural or optimized Env is sensitive to each V2 UCAs, so we want to use a cocktail of Envs for multiple V2 apex bNAb germline targeting. Other constructs are still being improved and tested.
  • Fig. 8B shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail
  • CH505_UCA_OPT2_N332_H130D_K169R_K170R is also referred to as
  • V2 apex bNAbs are an attractive target for immunogen design.
  • Fig. 9A V2 apex bNAbs arise frequently in HIV-1 infected humans (12-15%) and in SHIV infected RMs (11%). Low levels of somatic hypermutation are required (Wiehe et al Cell Host Microbe 23(6):759 (2016)). Low levels of poly- and autoreactivity are also preferred (Liu et al J Virol 89:784 (2015)). Long anionic CDRH3s (>24aa) encoded by germline. Precursors are rare, so germline targeting immunogens are critical. No natural Envs that can target multiple V2 apex bNAb lineages, therefore requiring immunogen design.
  • CH505 Envs can induce V2 apex (b)NAbs.
  • CH505 TF can trigger germline a V2 apex UCA carry ing B-cell line (CHOI UCA Ramos cells).
  • CH505 Envs gpl40
  • tier-2 heterologous NAbs directed at the V2 apex.
  • RM5695 infected with SHIV CH505 based quasispecies post vaccination developed V2 apex bNAbs. (Roark et al. Science 2020 371(6525):eabd2638).
  • Fig. 9B Therefore, it is desired to design CH505 TF immunogens with improved antigenicity 7 to mature and UCAs of V2 apex bNAbs.
  • FIG. 9C A schematic of the signature based approach of immunogen design used is depicted in Fig. 9C. See also Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72. Signatures are amino acids or glycan motifs statistically associated with one group of viruses vs others. Previously, sequence patterns associated with sensitivity to mature V2 bNAbs had been identified (Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72). Fig. 1. These displayed phylogenetic and/or contact sites, robustness across bNAbs and datasets, and were used for designing CH505 SET OPT. Fig. 9D.
  • Fig. 9P Three classes of sites were considered for mutation to increase sensitivity 7 : wildty pe resistant (replace with sensitive amino acid or non-significant); wildtype non-significant (replace with sensitive amino acid if available); and wildtype sensitive, but multiple sensitivity signatures at site (replace with more sensitive amino acid if available).
  • Fig. 9P Additional design considerations included (i) frequency of mutant (M- group & clade C); (ii) number of V2 bNAbs include the signature; and (iii) strength of each signature.
  • NxST 130 may be mutated to H-13. NxST 130 displays strong resistance signature for several bNAbs. H is robust across V2 bNAbs and datasets (vs D) and is not infrequent. On the other hand.
  • T-297 may be retained as there is no sensitivity signature or alternatives identified and T is the most common form. 11 mutations total were present in the final, initial design. Fig. 9Q. 8 resistant or non-significant with sensitive signatures were replaced. Additional mutations were one sensitive to more sensitive (R169K), one neutral to neutral (E170Q, remove -ve charge), one resistance signature for completing glycan shield (NxST332; no impact on sensitivity).
  • Hypervariable loops cannot be aligned due to extreme length and sequence variation. Rather, tests are performed to identify associations with net charge, length and number of glycans. Two significant hypervariable loop associations with sensitivity to V2 apex bNAbs were identified: (a) positively charged V2 loops (V2 apex bNAbs have long anionic CDRH3); and (b) smaller hypervariable V 1 & V2 combined (possible steric hindrance due to the dynamic loops). Fig. 9G-9I.
  • Mature signature introduction displays an increased sensitivity' to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. Germline signatures displayed further increased sensitivity to neturalization by mature V2 bNAbs.
  • Fig. 9J-9N UCA signatures increased the sensitivity of CH505 to neutralization by both CHOI and the PCT64 V2 bNAb UCAs.
  • Fig. 9K V2 SET OPT also gains CHOI UCA sensitivity, likely due to H-130.
  • UCA OPT2 that had CAP256 VRC26 UCA signatures also did not confer sensitivity' to this UCA. Because UCA OPT 2 displays low infectivity, it could not be tested.
  • D167N was shown to be sensitive for PCT64 LMCA.
  • D167N is associated with escape from early (13 month) PCT64 lineage Abs.
  • Fig. 10B Intriguingly, later PCT64 Abs (month 18 onwards) become more reliant on N-167. Month 18 Ab is agnostic and Month 24 Ab onwards become more sensitive with D167N.
  • M4C054 is an autologous Env from 4 months that is sensitive to PCT64-LMCA with glycan deletions at 130 and 133.
  • Fig. 10C This Env has N-167.
  • M18C043 is not neutralized by PCT64-LMCA even with 130 and/or 133 glycan deletion. This Env has D-167.
  • CAMB is natural SIVcpz Env (Nerrienet et al. J Virol. 2005 Jan; 79(2): 1312-1319. doi: 10.1128/JVI.79.2. 1312-1319.2005). It has been shown that CAM13 mutated to R-169, R-170 and K-171 (called ‘CAM13RRK') becomes sensitive to CHOI, PG9 and PG16 UCAs. Fig. 11 A.
  • CAM13RRK has poor reactivity with CHOI UCA.
  • H-130 is the strongest signature for CHOI UCA sensitivity. So the K130H mutation was introduced.
  • position 315 could be improved.
  • M-315 in CAM13RRK is very uncommon in HIV, so it was not possible to determine its impact. The 315 signature is only for month 24. Therefore, no change was recommended.
  • CAM13RRK has uncommon HIV amino acids for several outside epitope signatures for PG9 heavy /light reverted. In the epitope, T161M and Y173H can be considered. However, since there is good reactivity with PG9/PG16 UCAs, no change is needed.
  • the signatures for CAM13RRK are shown in Fig. 11B.
  • CAM13RRK has very long hypervariable V 1 loop.
  • Design construct CAM13RRK delVl changes the hypervariable VI loop length from 31 to 23 amino acids.
  • Fig. 11C The natural loops were modified to introduce deletions and positive charges.
  • Fig. 1 ID No gain was identified in hypervariable VI changes, but gains of +3 net charge (-1 for wildtype to +2 for the construct) was identified. Substantial change in hypervariable VI length was provided from 31 amino acids for the wildtype region to 12-16 for constructs.
  • CAM13RRK has 5 glycan holes: N130 + hyp V2 hole (this should be retained as filling it may reduce V2 apex UCA reactivity); N295 + N332 hole (interestingly, this is filled by N442 in one RM (T927)); N386 hole (filled by 2 RMs T927 and T925); and N234 and N616 holes (filling them wall likely not impact V2 UCA sensitivity and does not create bNAb sensitivity).
  • Fig. HE. Natural best hypervariable region has N442 and N386 holes filled.
  • Opt has N234 and N616 filled on top of these two.
  • CAM13RRK + K130H + Natural Vlh V2h swap + natural gly Expected to have improved CHOI UCA reactivity. Hyp VI & V2 loops from best SCIV infected RMs. Based on glycan shielding from RMs, added N442 and N386.
  • CAM13RRK + K130H + Opt Vlh V2h swap + opt gly Expected to have further improved VI & V2 hyp loops based on best loops from CAM13K/RRK infected RMs. May improve reactivity. Better gly can shielding as N234 and N616 are added.
  • signatures were calculated for binary phenotypes and sites of interest were found to have at least 2 of the 3: (a) contact site, (b) phylogenetic signature, and/or (c) strong q-value ⁇ 0.1.
  • For month 35 Abs 35B, 35D, 35G. 350 and 35S; no 35M since on a different branch), only signature sites of interest were 130 and 166.
  • H130 was chosen because it is the only signature for CH04 UCA.
  • the proposed sequence 172-174 VNA though rare is found multiple times (1.9% in C, 26 out of 1377 and 1.1% in M- group, 49 out of 4399).
  • Site 200 is a contact site ( ⁇ 8.5A from V2 apex bNAbs).
  • Retain E-269 No sensitive signature, so no need to mutate.
  • V2 and V2 hypervariable, and shorter V1+V2 hypervariable loops are preferred.
  • V2 and V1+V2 loops are preferred.
  • V3 charge association is likely due to charged aa signatures in V3, which are accounted for later.
  • preferred short and positively charged VI and V2 hypervariable loops were identified. These variants include - SET OPT, UCA OPT 1 and UCA OPT 2 - which will use the same hypervariable loops.
  • the 208 global virus panel based on most charge per unit hypervariable VI or hypervariable V2 length were sorted, and ZM233.6 and T250-4 were found to be the most preferred, respectively.
  • Fig. 12C The 208 global virus panel based on most charge per unit hypervariable VI or hypervariable V2 length were sorted, and ZM233.6 and T250-4 were found to be the most preferred, respectively. Fig. 12C.
  • Final design includes 10 mutations.
  • Fig. 12E. H-130 accounts for both CH04 UCA and PCT64 intermediate signatures, and the rest are for PG9 germline reverted Abs.
  • Hyp VI was used from ZM233.6 and hyp V2 was used from T250.
  • the last mutation, G732R, is not in the SHIV construct.
  • CAP256SU constructs were tested without glycan shield filling. (T250 and CH505 TF were glycan shield optimized).
  • CAP256SU OPT 4.0 is the same as CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R in Figures 8-12 and Figure 13.
  • N130H has 168-KKRR-171 motif.
  • K169R reduces CAP256UCA reactivity by 3-4 fold (CAP256UCAOPT v2 vs v3). So this motif could be used.
  • a predicted structure is depicted in figure. 15 A.
  • Hypervariable V 1 loop may be improved in charge by +2 units and in length by 2 amino acids (although one more VI glycan will be added and 130 glycan will be removed).
  • Fig. 15B Hypervariable V2 loop may be improved in charge by +4 units and in length by 3 amino acids. Further the one V2 loop glycan can be removed to avoid potential steric hindrance.
  • Fig. 15C Hypervariable V 1 loop may be improved in charge by +2 units and in length by 2 amino acids (although one more VI glycan will be added and 130 glycan will be removed).
  • PCT64UCA could prefer a negative V2 loop.
  • V2 apex bNAbs typically it has been observed that that positive and shorter V2 loops are preferred by V2 apex bNAbs, but for PCT64 UCA predicted structure a positively charged region (light chain) interacts with the hypervariable V2 loop.
  • Fig. 15F. Therefore, designs were optimized for negatively charged loops, using the PCT64 early Env diversity.
  • PCT64OPT construct has both a shorter loop that still preserves the interaction between the ends of V2 loop of PCT64 Envs with PCT64UCA. Predicted electrostatic energy is improved by 60kJ/mol when this V2 loop used. Also, previously it was identified found that PCT64 mol8-35 Abs are negatively impacted by V2 length and number of glycans.
  • CAP256SU UCA OPT 4.0 performs the best, and has K-171, while CAP256wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT has R-171. It is hypothesized that the R171K mutation will improve V2 UCA reactivity’ of CAP256wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT.
  • CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 has the best presentation of V2 UCA sensitive features. However, it has D-167, and it has been shown that PCT64 UCA requires N-167. It is therefore proposed that D167N mutation will improve the chance of CAP256SU UCA OPT 4.0 to be sensitive to PCT64 UCA.
  • CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 Since CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 is based on the SHIV CAP256SU, it has SIVmac239 cytoplasmic tail and Y-375. The reversion Y375S to HIV-1 Ser-375 was tested as CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S and CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S_D167N. Given the advantage of K-171 in other constructs, the R171K mutation was introduced in CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT construct. This CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_R171K construct improved reactivity to several UCAs. Fig. 18B.
  • CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 The best CAP256SU construct, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, was based on SHIV.CAP256SU (i.e. SIVmac239 cytoplasmic tail). Since HIV-1 constructs will be favorable vaccines, all CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 design mutations were introduced in the backbone of HIV-1 CAP256SU. Testing as a pseudovirus showed that neutralization profile was comparable if not slightly better than the SHIV -based construct. Fig. 18C.
  • CAP256SU UCAOPT 4.0 is the best CAP256SU based construct. However, this Env has been difficult to stabilize as SOSIP trimers.
  • CAP256wk34.80 is closely related Env to CAP256SU that can make well-folded SOSIPs (Gorman et al. Cell Rep 31(1): 107448 2020). Therefore the K169R was transformed to CAP256 wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171K construct to match all the mutations introduced in CAP256SU_UCA_OPT4.0, and tested this CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK Env. Fig. 18D.
  • I535N may also be included. Added the RnS mutations because CAP256SU and CAP256wk34.80 are quite similar to each other.
  • mRNA constructs have the signal peptide & cytoplasmic tail from CH848 mRNA constructs. From PDB 6VTT (Gorman et al.) it appears to be the bolded following: MTVTGTWRNYQQWWIWGILGFWMLMICNGLWV (SEQ ID NO: X) Alignment of sequences for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; and mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 is depicted in Fig. 18 F. Dots indicate deletions and dashes indicate identities.

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Abstract

In certain aspects the invention provides HIV-1 immunogens, including HIV-1 envelopes with optimized V2 loop for antibody induction.

Description

Compositions Comprising V2 OPT HIV Envelopes
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/495,528, filed on April 11, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
GOVERNMENT INTERESTS
[0002] This invention was made with government support under Center for HIV/AIDS Vaccine Immunology-Immunogen Design grant UM1-AI100645 and UM1-AI144371 from the NIH, NIAID. Division of AIDS. The government has certain rights in the invention. [0003] The United States government has rights in this invention pursuant to Contract No. 89233218CNA000001 between the United States Department of Energy and Triad National Security, LLC for the operation of Los Alamos National Laboratory'.
SEQUENCE LISTING
[0004] The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted electronically in ASCII format and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on [[Date]], is named [[Title]] and is [[Number]] bytes in size.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0005] The present invention relates in general, to a composition suitable for use in inducing anti -HIV- 1 antibodies, and, in particular, to immunogenic compositions comprising envelope proteins and nucleic acids to induce cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies and increase their breadth of coverage. The invention also relates to methods of inducing such broadly neutralizing anti -HIV- 1 antibodies using such compositions.
BACKGROUND
[0006] The development of a safe and effective HIV-1 vaccine is one of the highest priorities of the scientific community working on the HIV-1 epidemic. While anti-retroviral treatment (ART) has dramatically prolonged the lives of HIV- 1 infected patients, ART is not routinely available in developing countries.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In certain embodiments, the invention provides compositions and method for induction of immune response, for example cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing Ab (bNAb) induction.
[0008] In certain aspects, the invention provides a CH505, CAP256SU, CAP256wk34.80, CAM13, Q23, or T250 envelope immunogens comprising optimized V2 loop, for example but not limited to initiate VI V2. and/or CD4 binding site and/or Fusion Peptide unmutated common ancestor (UCA) broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAbs) precursors. In certain aspects the invention provides CH505 T/F envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop. In certain aspects the invention provides CAP256SU envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop. In certain aspects the invention provides CAP256wk34.80 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop. In certain aspects the invention provides CAM13 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop. In certain aspects the invention provides Q23 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop. In certain aspects the invention provides T250 envelopes comprising optimized V2 loop.
[0009] In certain embodiments, the compositions contemplate nucleic acid, as DNA and/or RNA, or proteins immunogens either alone or in any combination. In certain embodiments, the methods contemplate genetic, as DNA and/or RNA, immunization either alone or in combination with envelope protein(s).
[0010] In certain embodiments the nucleic acid encoding an envelope is operably linked to a promoter inserted in an expression vector. In certain aspects the compositions comprise a suitable carrier. In certain aspects the compositions comprise a suitable adjuvant.
[0011] In certain embodiments the induced immune response includes induction of antibodies, including but not limited to autologous and/or cross-reactive (broadly) neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 envelope. Various assays that analyze whether an immunogenic composition induces an immune response, and the type of antibodies induced are known in the art and are also described herein.
[0012] In certain aspects the invention provides a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain aspects the invention provides a nucleic acid consisting essentially of a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain aspects the invention provides an expression vector comprising any of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain aspects the invention provides an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain aspects the invention provides an expression vector consisting essentially a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are codon optimized for expression in a mammalian cell, in vivo or in vitro. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids consisting essentially of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids consisting of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain embodiments the nucleic acid of the invention, is operably linked to a promoter and is inserted in an expression vector. In certain aspects the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the expression vector.
[0013] In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding any one of the polypeptides of the invention.
[0014] In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid encoding an HIV-1 envelope of the invention.
[0015] In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods employ an HIV-1 envelope as polypeptide instead of a nucleic acid sequence encoding the HIV-1 envelope. In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods employ an HIV-1 envelope as polypeptide, a nucleic acid sequence encoding the HIV-1 envelope, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the polypeptides are recombinantly produced.
[0016] The envelope used in the compositions and methods of the invention can be a gpl60, gpl50, gpl45, gp!40, gp!20, gp41, or N-terminal deletion variants thereof as described herein, cleavage resistant variants thereof as described herein, or codon optimized sequences thereof. In certain embodiments the composition comprises envelopes as trimers. In certain embodiments, envelope proteins are multimerized, for example trimers are attached to a particle such that multiple copies of the trimer are attached and the multimerized envelope is prepared and formulated for immunization in a human. In certain embodiments, the compositions comprise envelopes, including but not limited to trimers as particulate, high- density array on liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the trimers are in a well ordered, near native like or closed conformation. In some embodiments the trimer compositions comprise a homogenous mix of native like trimers. In some embodiments the trimer compositions comprise at least 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% native like trimers.
[0017] The polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide comprising any one of the polypeptides described herein. The polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide consisting essentially of any one of the polypeptides described herein. The polypeptide contemplated by the invention can be a polypeptide consisting of any one of the polypeptides described herein. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide is recombinantly produced. In certain embodiments, the polypeptides and nucleic acids of the invention are suitable for use as an immunogen, for example to be administered in a human subject.
[0018] In certain embodiments the envelope is any of the forms of HIV- 1 envelope. In certain embodiments the envelope is a gpl20, gpl40, gp!45 (i.e. with a transmembrane), gpl50 envelope. In certain embodiments, gpl40 is designed to form a stable trimer. In certain embodiments envelope protomers form a trimer which is not a SOSIP trimer. In certain embodiment the trimer is a SOSIP based trimer wherein each protomer comprises additional modifications. In certain embodiments, envelope trimers are recombinantly produced. In certain embodiments, envelope trimers are purified from cellular recombinant fractions by antibody binding and reconstituted in lipid comprising formulations. See for example W02015/127108 titled ■‘Trimeric HIV-1 envelopes and uses thereof’ which content is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. In certain embodiments the envelopes of the invention are engineered and comprise non-naturally occurring modifications.
[0019] In certain embodiments, the envelope is in a liposome. In certain embodiments the envelope comprises a transmembrane domain with a cytoplasmic tail embedded in a liposome. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid comprises a nucleic acid sequence which encodes a gpl20, gpl40, gpl45, gpl50, gpl60.
[0020] In certain embodiments, where the nucleic acids are operably linked to a promoter and inserted in a vector, the vectors are any suitable vector. Non-limiting examples include, VSV, replicating rAdenovirus type 4, MV A, Chimp adenovirus vectors, pox vectors, and the like. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are administered in NanoTaxi block polymer nanospheres. In certain embodiments, the composition and methods comprise an adjuvant. Non-limiting examples include, AS01 B, AS01 E, gla/SE, alum, Poly I poly C (poly IC), polylC/long chain (LC) TLR agonists, TLR7/8 and 9 agonists, or a combination of TLR7/8 and TLR9 agonists (see Moody et al. (2014) J. Virol. March 2014 vol. 88 no. 6 3329-3339), or any other adjuvant. Non-limiting examples of TLR7/8 agonist include TLR7/8 ligands. Gardiquimod, Imiquimod and R848 (resiquimod). A non-limiting embodiment of a combination of TLR7/8 and TLR9 agonist comprises R848 and oCpG in STS (see Moody et al. (2014) J. Virol. March 2014 vol. 88 no. 6 3329-3339).
[0021] In non-limiting embodiments, the adjuvant is an LNP. See e.g.. without limitation Shirai et al. “Lipid Nanoparticle Acts as a Potential Adjuvant for Influenza Split Vaccine without Inducing Inflammatory Responses” Vaccines 2020, 8, 433; doi: 10.3390/vaccines8030433, published 3 August 2020. In non-limiting embodiments, LNPs used as adjuvants for proteins or mRNA compositions are composed of an ionizable lipid, cholesterol, lipid conjugated with polyethylene glycol, and a helper lipid. Non-limiting embodiment include LNPs without polyethylene glycol.
[0022] In certain aspects the invention provides a cell comprising a nucleic acid encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression. In certain aspects, the invention provides a clonally derived population of cells encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression. In certain aspects, the invention provides a stable pool of cells encoding any one of the envelopes of the invention suitable for recombinant expression.
[0023] In certain aspects, the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide listed in Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer designed to form an envelope trimer. The invention also provides nucleic acids encoding these recombinant polypeptides. Non-limiting examples of amino acids and nucleic acids of such protomers are shown in Figures 3A-5E, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, and 19-22.
[0024] In certain aspects the invention provides a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5. In certain aspects the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the recombinant trimer and a carrier, wherein the trimer comprises three identical protomers of an HIV-1 envelope listed in Table 1, 2, 3, 4 and/or 5. In certain aspects the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a nucleic acid encoding these recombinant HIV-1 envelope and a carrier.
[0025] In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids encoding HIV-1 envelopes for immunization wherein the nucleic acid encodes a gp!20 envelope, gp!20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gp!40CF. gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpI45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope.
[0026] In certain aspects the invention provides a selection of HIV- 1 envelopes for immunization wherein the HIV-1 envelope is a gp!20 envelope or a gp!20D8 variant. In certain embodiments a composition for immunization comprises protomers that form stabilized SOSIP trimers.
[0027] In certain embodiments, the compositions for use in immunization further comprise an adjuvant.
[0028] In certain embodiments, wherein the compositions comprise a nucleic acid, the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter, and could be inserted in an expression vector. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid is a mRNA. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle.
[0029] In one aspect the invention provides a composition for a prime boost immunization regimen comprising one or more envelopes from Table 1. 2, 3, 4 and/or 5, wherein the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer designed to form an envelope trimer, wherein the envelope is a prime or boost immunogen. In one aspect the invention provides a composition for a prime boost immunization regimen comprising one or more envelopes of the invention.
[0030] In certain aspects the invention provides methods of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering a composition comprising a polypeptide and/or any suitable form of a nucleic acid(s) encoding an HIV-1 envelope(s) in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
[0031] In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid encodes a gp!20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gp!40 envelope (gp!40C. gp!40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide is gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gp!40 envelope (gpl40C, gp!40CF, gp!40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gp!45 envelope, a gpI50 envelope, or a transmembrane bound envelope. [0032] In certain embodiments, the methods comprise administering an adjuvant. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance. In certain embodiments, the administered polypeptide is multimerized in a liposome or nanoparticle. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise administering one or more additional HIV-1 immunogens to induce a T cell response. Non-limiting examples include gag, nef, pol, etc.
[0033] In certain aspects, the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 Env ectodomain trimer, comprising three gpl20-gp41 protomers comprising a gpl20 polypeptide and a gp41 ectodomain, wherein each protomer is the same and each protomer comprises portions from envelope BG505 HIV-1 strain and gpl20 polypeptide portions from a CH505 HIV-1 strain and stabilizing mutations A316W and E64K. In certain embodiments, the trimer is stabilized in a prefusion mature closed conformation, and wherein the trimer does not comprise nonnatural disulfide bond between cysteine substitutions at positions 201 and 433 of the HXB2 reference sequence. Non-limited examples of envelopes contemplated as trimers are listed in Table 1. In some embodiments, the amino acid sequence of one monomer comprised in the trimer is shown in Figure 3-5, 12F, 13, 14, 16. 17. 18F, 20 and 22. In some embodiments, the trimer is immunogenic. In some embodiments the trimer binds to any one of the antibodies PGT145, PGT151, CH103UCA, CH103, VRC01, PGT128, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments the trimer does not bind to antibody 19B and/or 17B.
[0034] In certain aspects, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising any one of the recombinant trimers of the invention. In certain embodiments the compositions comprising trimers are immunogenic. The percent trimer in such immunogenic compositions could vary. In some embodiments the composition comprises 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%.75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% stabilized trimer.
[0035] In certain embodiments, the envelope comprises ferritin. In certain embodiments, the inventive designs comprise modifications, including without limitation linkers between the envelope and ferritin designed to optimize ferritin nanoparticle assembly.
[0036] In certain aspects, the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the inventive envelopes or nucleic acid sequences encoding the same. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid is mRNA. In certain embodiments, the mRNA is comprised in a lipid nanoparticle (LNP). [0037] In certain aspects, the invention provides compositions comprising a nanoparticle which comprises any one of the envelopes of the invention.
[0038] In certain embodiments, the nanoparticle is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
[0039] In certain aspects, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising any one of the stabilized envelopes of the invention. In certain embodiments, the composition is administered as a prime and/or a boost. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises nanoparticles. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention further comprise administering an adjuvant.
[0040] In certain aspects, the invention provides a composition comprising a plurality of nanoparticles comprising a plurality of the envelopes/trimers of the invention. In nonlimiting embodiments, the envelopes/trimers of the invention are multimeric when comprised in a nanoparticle. The nanoparticle size is suitable for delivery. In non-liming embodiments the nanoparticles are ferritin based nanoparticles.
[0041] In certain aspects, the invention provides nucleic acids comprising sequences encoding polypeptides or proteins of the invention. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are DNAs. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are mRNAs. In certain aspects, the invention provides expression vectors comprising the nucleic acids of the invention.
[0042] In certain aspects, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising mRNAs encoding the inventive envelopes. In certain embodiments, these are optionally formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In certain embodiments, the mRNAs are modified. Modifications include without limitations modified ribonucleotides, poly-A tail, 5’cap.
[0043] In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids encoding the inventive polypeptide or protein designs. In non-limiting embodiments, the nucleic acids are mRNA, modified or unmodified, suitable for use any use, e.g but not limited to use as pharmaceutical compositions. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are formulated in lipid, such as but not limited to LNPs.
[0044] In non-limiting embodiments, the invention provides compositions comprising an envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7. 8. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20-22 or any combination thereof. Non-limiting embodiments of combinations include CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0), CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0, CAM13RRK K130H, CH505 UCA OPT3 D167N, or any combination thereof. See Figures 8-12. Non-limiting embodiments of combinations includes HIV CAP256SU OPT 4.0, CAM13RRRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAP256wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT and A.Q23 17CHIM.SOSIPV5.2.8/293F (HV1301552) or any combination thereof (Figures 14-16). In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UC AOPT_R17 IK, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV CAP256SU OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAM13RRK. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi. In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises
HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_K169R_101nQQavi. In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises
HIV CAP256.wk34.c80 V2UCA OPT 4.0 R171K SOSIP.RnS2 WlnQQavi. In nonlimiting embodiments, the invention provides compositions comprising nucleic acids encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20-22, or any combination thereof. Provided are also methods of using these envelopes and/or nucleic acids, and/or compositions comprising administering an amount sufficient to induce immune responses in a subject.
[0045] In certain aspects, the invention provides a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide according to Table 2, Figures 4C-D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4 or an envelope polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19 or Figure 20. or Table 5 or an envelope polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 21 or Figure 22. In certain aspects, the invention provides a recombinant HIV- 1 envelope polypeptide CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0) or HIV CAP256.wk34.c80 V2UCA OPT 4.0 R171K. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer. In some embodiments, the polypeptide is designed to form an envelope trimer. In certain embodiments, the envelope is based on CH505 T/F envelope and comprises optimized sequence for binding to V2 antibodies, including without limitation V2 UCAs. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAP256. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on HIV_CAP256SU (based on the HIV sequence). In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAP256 SU (based on the SHIV.CAP256SU sequence). SHIV.CAP256SU differs in HXB2 position 375 and has a SlVmac cytoplasmic tail from HXB2 position 721 to the terminus. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAP256 SU_375S (the same as CAP256 SU sequence with a serine at HXB2 position 375). As used herein, an envelope based on CAP256 includes envelopes based at least on these three variants of CAP256SU. In certain embodiments, the envelope is based on CAP256wk34.80. In certain embodiments the envelope is based on CAM13. In certain embodiments, the envelope is based on Q23.17. In certain embodiment, the envelope comprises mutations H130D, D167N, K169R. Q170R and Q171K, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the VI hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 132-152 is replaced with the sequence STYNNTHNISK. In certain embodiments, the V2 hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 185-190 is replaced with the sequence NKNGRQ. In certain embodiments the VI hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 132-152 is replaced with the sequence STYNNTHNISK and the V2 hypervariable loop at wildtype Env HXB2 positions 185-190 is replaced with the sequence NKNGRQ. In certain embodiments, the envelope comprises glycan knock-in mutations as described in Wagh et al. Cell Reports 25(4):893-908 (2018) (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30355496/), the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In certain embodiments the envelope polypeptide is designed to multimerize. In some embodiments the envelope sequence comprises a self-assembling protein. In certain embodiments, the self-assembling protein is a ferritin. In other embodiments, the self assembling protein is added via a sortase A reaction. [0046] Is some embodiments, the envelope is based on CAM13RRK, CAM13RRRK, HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S. CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_Y375S_D167N. CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K, C AP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK, CAP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK D 167N, Q23. 17_(natural_wildtype), Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT GLY, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT ALT. Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT GLY ALT, Q23. 17_V2UCAOPT_GLY_ALT_R170Q, CH505 V2UCAOPT2 N332, CH505_V2UCAOPT_v3.0. See Table 2.
[0047] In certain embodiments, the optimized V2 loop modifications described herein can be incorporated into an envelope from Table 1 or Table 3.
[0048] In some embodiments, the invention provides a nucleic acid of Figures 19, 17, 20 or 22 or encoding a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide according to Table 2. Figures 4C- D, Figure 12F. Figure 13, Figure 20. or Table 3. Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16. Figure 17, or Figure 18F, or Table 4 or an envelope polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, Figure 20, or Figure 21. In non-limiting embodiments, the nucleic acid is an mRNA. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20. wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U). In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1- methyl-psuedouridine. In some embodiments, the mRNA is modified. In some embodiments, the modification is a modified nucleotide such as 5-methyl-cytidine and/or 6- methyl-adenosine and/or modified uridine. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein the poly A tail is about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be uridine (U) and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1 -methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1-methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the mRNA comprises the nucleic acids according to Figure 19 or 20, wherein thymine (T) will be 1-methyl-psuedouridine and wherein the sequence comprises the nucleotides up to the poly A tail, wherein the mRNA comprises a poly A tail about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long. In non-limiting embodiments, the mRNA is administered as an LNP.
[0049] In some aspects, the invention provides a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 2, Figures 4C-D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16. Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19 or 20, or Table 5 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 21. In some embodiments, the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the recombinant trimer and a carrier, wherein the trimer comprises three identical protomers of an HIV-1 envelope listed in Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3. Figure 14, Figure 15. Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F. or Table 4 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19 or 20 or Table 5 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 21.
[0050] In some embodiments, the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a nucleic acid encoding the recombinant HIV-1 envelope and a carrier. In some embodiments, the compositions comprise at least two different immunogens targeting different V2 UCAs. In non-limiting embodiments, the immunogens are from Table 1, Table 2 Table 3, Table 4 and/or Table 5. Non-limiting embodiment of a combination includes CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R (also referred to as CAP256SU_OPT_4.0), CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0, CAMI3RRK K130H, CH505 UCA OPT3 D167N, or any combination thereof. See Figures 8-12. Non-limiting embodiment of a combination includes CAP256SU OPT 4.0, CAM13RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT, CAP256wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT or any combination thereof (Figures 14-16). In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_4.0. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80 V2UCAOPT R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In non- limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256SU_OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23.17 (natural Env). In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRK, and Q23. 17 (natural Env). In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_RRK. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises CAM13RRK. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises
HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi. In non-limiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_K169R_101nQQavi. In nonlimiting embodiments, the composition comprises HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0_R171K SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi.
[0051] In some embodiments, the envelopes are or are designed as trimers, and/or nanoparticles.
[0052] In some embodiments the immunogenic composition further comprises an adjuvant. [0053] In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19, 20, 21 or any combination thereof is operably linked to a promoter. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is inserted in an expression vector.
[0054] In some aspects, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering a composition comprising any suitable form of a nucleic acid(s) encoding one or more envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19, 20 or 21 or any combination thereof or an envelope selected from Figures 4C-4D. 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 20 or 21 or any combination thereof in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
[0055] In some embodiments, the composition administered comprises a nucleic acid encoding a gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer. a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, a transmembrane bound envelope, a gp!60 envelope or an envelope designed to multimerize.
[0056] In some embodiments, the composition administered comprises a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, a transmembrane bound envelope, or an envelope designed to multimerize. [0057] In some embodiments, the composition administered further comprises an adjuvant. [0058] In some embodiments, the method further comprises administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance. In some embodiment, the polypeptide administered is multimerized in a liposome or nanoparticle.
[0059] In some embodiments, the method further comprising administering one or more additional HIV-1 immunogens to induce a T cell response.
[0060] In some aspects, the invention provides a composition comprises a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises an envelope, wherein the envelope is selected from Figures 4C-4D. 7, 8, 9. 10. 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, 19. 20. 21 or 22 or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the compositions comprises two, three, four or more different immunogens. In some embodiments the immunogens target different V2 UCAs. In non-limiting embodiments the different immunogens are selected from the various V2 OPT designs described herein.
[0061] In some embodiments, the nanoparticle of the composition is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
[0062] In some aspects, the invention provides a composition comprising a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises (a) a nucleic acid according to Figures 17, 19, 20 or 21 or encoding the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figures 4C- D, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figures 21 or (b) a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15. Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F. or Table 4. or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, Figure 20 or Figure 21.
[0063] In some embodiments, the nanoparticle of the composition is a ferritin selfassembling nanoparticle.
[0064] In some embodiments, the nanoparticle of the composition comprises multimers of trimers.
[0065] In some embodiments, the nanoparticle of the composition comprises 1-8 trimers.
[0066] In some aspects, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising any one of the recombinant envelopes or compositions described herein. In some embodiments the methods comprise administering two, three, four or more different immunogens. In some embodiments, the different immunogens target different V2 UCAs. In non-limiting embodiments the different immunogens are selected from the V2 OPT designs described herein— Tables 1, 2, 3, and/or 4, Figures 4C-4D, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18F, or 20. [0067] In some embodiments, the composition is administered as a prime.
[0068] In some embodiments, the composition is administered as a boost.
[0069] In some aspects, the invention provides a nucleic acid encoding any of the recombinant envelopes described herein. In some embodiments, the invention provides a composition comprising the nucleic acid and a carrier. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is an mRNA. In some embodiments, the mRNA is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle (LNP). [0070] In some embodiments, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising the nucleic acid encoding any of the recombinant envelopes described herein. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a carrier.
[0071] In certain aspects, the invention provides an immunogenic composition or composition, wherein the composition comprises at least two different HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acids encoding a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, or a combination thereof.
[0072] In certain aspects, the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising a first immunogen and a second immunogen, wherein the first immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, or Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21 or a nucleic acid encoding said recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, and wherein the second immunogen is a different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, or Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21 or a nucleic acid encoding said different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain aspects, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering the immunogenic composition in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response. In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance. [0073] In certain embodiments, at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, the first immunogen and the second immunogen are a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, the first immunogen and the second immunogen are a nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid is an mRNA. In certain embodiments, the mRNA is encapsulated in an LNP. In certain embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises one or more additional immunogens, wherein the one or more additional immunogens is different to the first and second immunogens. [0074] In certain aspects, the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising HIV-1 envelopes HIV CAP256SU OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23. 17. In certain aspects, the invention provides a method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering the immunogenic composition in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response. In certain embodiments, the method further comprising administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
[0075] In certain embodiments, the HIV-1 envelopes are in the form of a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acid, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more of the HIV-1 envelopes is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid is an mRNA. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a carrier. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises an adjuvant.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color.
[0077] Figure 1 shows CH505 Mature Optimized Design. Shown are CH505 amino acid substitutions that are statistically associated with for V2 apex mature bNAb sensitivity. The letters represent single amino acids, and the height of the letter in the sequence LOGO indicates its frequency in the population. The numbers underneath the LOGO are HXB2 reference strain positions in the viral sequence. O stands for an N embedded in a N-linked glycosylation site. Blue are amino acids that are associated with sensitivity, red are amino acids associated with resistance, black are amino acids that were not associated with either sensitivity or resistance. The V2 SET OPT chimeric SOSIP (last row) carries all the design mutations from the full length CH505 TF V2 SET OPT except at 31, 33 and 588, 644. For the former, the SOSIP construct has the favorable mutations.
[0078] For 588, we suggest mutating to K (quite common aa, signature p-value = 0.0005- 0.026 depending on the V2 bnab, odd's ratio (OR) = 2-5). For 644, we suggest mutating to R (most common sensitive aa, p=0.0006-0.007, OR=2.7-7.9).
[0079] To minimize the number of constructs, we propose adding these to UCA OPT! SOSIP constructs (note: our UCA OPT1 carried all the sensitive signatures for mature bNAbs also in addition to most UCAs/intermediates). Gp41 mutations could also be added in some embodiments.
[0080] Figure 2 shows additional signature amino acids associated with V2 bNAb unmutated common ancestor or early intermediate antibodies from early stages of V2 apex bNAb maturation. See Figure 1 for details. UCA OPT1 SOSIP construct just has one sub-optimal aa at PG9 germline reverted Ab signature sites as compared to the full length UCA OPT1 - it has an M-535 instead of 1-535. We suggest using 1-535 (fairly common aa, signature p = 0.01. OR = 3.3). Data not shown for other V2 UCAs/intermediates (CH04. PCT64) but the SOSIP UCA OPT1 construct carries all the favorable mutations for their signature sites as well. Gp41 mutations could also be added in some embodiments.
[0081] Figures 3A-3C show non-limiting embodiments of amino acid sequences. These are continuous sequences where dashes represent gaps if these sequences were aligned.
[0082] Figures 4A and 4B show non-limiting embodiments of amino acid and nucleic acid sequences. In Figure 4B, VDAT = cloning site and Kozak sequence. Underlined = signal peptide that is cleaved from mature protein. Figure 4C shows a non-limiting embodiment of a gp!60 envelope amino acid sequence for CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2. Figure 4D shows a non-limiting embodiment of a nucleic acid sequence encoding the envelope in Figure 4C. [0083] Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show non-limiting embodiment of sortase designs and nucleic acid and protein sequences. Figure 5E shows non-limiting embodiments of ferritin designs. The linker between the envelope sequence and the ferritin protein sequence could be any suitable linker. The ferritin protein could be any suitable ferritin. See e.g. without limitation US Patent 10,961,283, incorporated herein by reference. The envelopes in these designs are CH505 T/F or CH505 M5. A skilled artisan can readily incorporate the V2 optimization into these envelopes.
[0084] Figure 6A shows neutralization data for optimized designs of the invention. Figure
Y1 6B summarized the neutralization data of Figure 6A and shows IC50 ((pg/ml) titers). In Figure 6B K170R should be Q170R. The neutralization data is from a standard assay in the field: see for e.g. Barbian et al. PMID: 25900654 or Montefiori et al. PMID: 18432938. In this assay Envs being tested are inserted in a standard HIV backbone with a luciferase reporter, the viruses are then expressed in 293T cells and then tested for ability to infect TZM-bl cells in presence of varying concentrations of antibodies measured by luciferase based luminosity. The neutralization results show the drop in infectivity of each pseudotyped Env in the presence of different concentrations of the UCAs. These data show that UCA OPT2 N332 (ver 1) showed reduced infectivity in presence of high concentrations of only 2 UCAs (CHOI and PCT64), while UCA OPT2 N332 ver2 shows substantially reduced infectivity at high concentrations of CHOI, PCT64, PG9 and PG16 UCAs. These results show that version 2 can bind to the 4 V2 apex UCAs, thus suggesting that it could trigger such rare V2 apex precursors when used as an immunogen.
[0085] Figures 7A-7I depict the second round design strategy. Fig. 7A depicts the detection of the R170 signature which is a polar contact with Tyrl 11. Fig. 7B depicts PG16 RUA and PG9 RUA sensitivity- for CAM13K (i.e. CAM 13 + Q171K), CAM13K + K169R, CAM13K + K1 9R + K170R and CAM13K + K169R + K170Q. Fig. 7C depicts Al 61 interactions. Fig. 7D depicts the PCT64 LMCA signature determined using CH505 UCA OPT + H130D was tested to determine. Figs. 7E-7G depict sensitivity of CH505 TF. CH505 UCA OPT 2 + N332, CH505 UCA OPT 2 + H130D, CH505 UCA OPT 2 + Q170R. or CH505 UCA OPT 2 + H130D + K1 9R + Q170R to VRC26 UCA, CHOI RU A3, PG9 RUA, PG16 RUA, PCT64LMCA, and RM5695 UCA. Fig. 7H depicts the sensitivity- of candidates to five UCA lineages. Fig. 71 depicts sensitivity of CH505T; CH505 OPT2 N332; CH505 OPT2 N332 Q170R; or CH505 OPT2 N332 H130D, K169R, Q170R to VRC26 UCA, CHOI RUA3, PG9 RUA, PG16RUA, PCT64 LMCA, or 5695 rhesus UCA.
[0086] Figures 8A-8B depict identified V2 apex UCA neutralization constructs. Fig. 8A shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail are sensitive to all V2 apex UCAs. Fig. 8B depicts other neutralization constructs.
[0087] Figures 9A-9S depict initial determination of attractive V2 apex bNAbs targets for immunogen design. Fig. 9A depicts the viral membrane structure. Fig. 9B depicts the V2 apex bNAB from SHIV CH505 infected RM. Fig. 9C show s schematic of signature based approach of immunogen design. See also Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72. Fig. 9D depicts phylogenetic and/or contact sites, robustness across bNAbs and datasets, and were used for designing CH505 SET OPT. Fig. 9E depicts neutralization data for 208 global viruses against CH04 & CAP256 UCAs, and heavy and/or light chain germline reverted PG9. Fig. 9F shows analyses for CAP256 IA4. For CAP256 IA4 weak signatures found due to low statistical power (3 out of 208 viruses neutralized). Only resistant signatures outside the epitope. Change to neutral at most sites would involve mutation to rare amino acid and/or removing glycans that could introduce vulnerable gaps in the glycan shield. Only two mutations introduce at 736 & 842. Designed UCA optimized constructs without (UCA OPT1) and with (UCA OPT2) these weak signatures. Fig. 9G shows Hypervariable Loop Characteristic. Hypervariable loops cannot be aligned due to extreme length & sequence variation. Tested for associations with net charge, length & number of glycans. Found two significant hypervariable loop associations with sensitivity to V2 apex bNAbs: Positively charged V2 loops; V2 apex bNAbs have long anionic CDRH3. Smaller hypervariable VI & V2 combined: possible steric hindrance due to the dynamic loops. Fig. 9H shows Hypervariable VI & V2 substitutions: Optimizing for Positive Charge and optimizing for smaller length based on M-group Hypervariable length distribution. Fig. 91 depicts M-group hypervariable length distribution. Fig. 9J depicts mature signature and germline signature sensitivity to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. It show s that mature signature introduction increases sensitivity to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. Shown are results for CH505 TF and CH505 V2 SET envelopes as gp!60 constructs in a pseudovirus neutralization assay. The assay is a standard TZM-B1 cell neutralization assay as describer in Sarzotti-Kelsoe et al. J Immunol Methods. 2014 Jul ;409: 131-46. doi: 10.1016/j.jim.2013.1 1.022. Epub 2013 Dec 1. Antibody is shown in each panel. It further show s that germline signatures further increase sensitivity' to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. Shown are results for CH505 TF, CH505 V2 SET, and CH505 UCA OPT1 envelopes as gp!60 constructs in a pseudovirus neutralization assay. Antibody is shown in each panel. The thick arrow' show's CH505 UCA OPT1 curve, which in panels A and E overlaps with CH505 V2 SET curve. Fig. 9K shows that UCA signatures increase neutralization sensitivity of CH505 envelopes by unmutated common ancestor (UCA) or reverted common ancestor (RUA) antibodies. Shown are results for CH505 TF. CH505 V2 SET. and CH505 UCA OPT1 envelopes as gpl60 constructs in a pseudovirus neutralization assay. Antibody is shown in each panel. UCA signatures increased the sensitivity of CH505 to neutralization by both CHOI and the PCT64 V2 bNAb UCAs. V2 SET OPT also gains CHOI UCA sensitivity, likely due to H-130. UCA OPT2 that had CAP256 VRC26 UCA signatures did not confer sensitivity to this UCA. Fig. 9L depicts V2 UCA neutralization. Fig. 9M show sensitivity to neutralization by mature V2 apex bnAbs. Respective antibodies are listed in each panel. N332 represents a predicted V2 apex bNab resistance signature, but is critical for V3 bNabs (CH505 Env has N334). Moving the N334 glycan to N332 did not reduce its sensitivity to mature V2 bNabs, and rendered it highly sensitive to PGT121. The legend listed in Fig 9M is applicable to all panels in this figure. Fig. 9N shows summary of expression and binding data for various optimized designs expressed as SOSIP designs. Various non-limiting embodiments of SOSIP designs are shown in Figures 3 and 4. Fig. 90 shows SET OPT & UCA OPT constructs expressed as chimeric CH505- BG505 SOSIPs. Different constructs tested with varying quality & expression. Expression of UCA OPT1 with NxST 332 and gp41 mutations resulted in highest level of trimer formation (88% versus 12% monomer ) as shown. It further shows antibody binding consistent with neutralization results. Binding data consistent with neutralization results. Fig. 9P depicts three classes of sites in the CH505 TF considered for mutation to increase sensitivity'. Fig. 9Q depicts the mutations present in the CH505 V2 initial design (CH505 TF V2 SET OPT). Fig. 9R depicts the additional mutations present in the CH505 TF UCA OPT1. Fig. 9S shows a summary of the neutralization data. The table shows that introduction of V2 apex mature signatures in CH505 TF improved sensitivity to mature bNAbs, and gained sensitivity to CHOI UCA — SET OPT column. Introduction of UCA signatures further improved sensitivity to mature bNAbs. to CHOI UCA and gained sensitivity to PCT64 LMCA — UCA OPT column. In this figure the UCA OPT label shows UCA OPT2 + N332— the slope of the curve where the curve for CH505 UCA OPT2 + N332 is bending for the PCT64LMCA, whereas it is not for PG9RUA. This indicates that when measured the neutralization up to 250ug/ml, 50% neutralization could be reached at 105ug/ml. First column lists the antibody. “WT” refers to CH505 TF sequences without optimization signatures.
[0088] Figures 10A-10D depict results of second round of designs. Fig. 10A depicts longitudinal Env evolution data demonstrating escape predominantly at particular amino acid. Fig. 10B depicts D167N association with escape from early (13 month) PCT64 lineage Abs. Fig. IOC depicts M4C054‘s sensitivity to PCT64-LMCA with glycan deletions at 130 and 133. Fig. 10D depicts CH505.V2UCAOPT.v3.D167N design and neutralization testing.
[0089] Figures 11A-11F depict CAM13RRK V2 UCA development. Fig. 11A depicts CAM13 mutated at R-169, R-170 and K-171 (‘CAM13RRK’) is sensitive to CHOI, PG9 and PG16 UCAs. Fig. 11B depicts signatures for CAM13RRK. Fig. 11C depicts design construct CAM13RRK delVl reducing the hypervariable V 1 loop length. Fig. 11 D depicts modifications of the natural loops to introduce deletions and positive charges. Fig. HE depicts CAM13RRK glycan holes. Fig. 1 IF depicts results from neutralization testing. [0090] Figures 12A-12H depict CAP256SU based Env designs. Fig. 12A depicts month 35 Abs (35B, 35D, 35G, 350 and 35S; no 35M since on a different branch) signature sites. Fig. 12B depicts several other identified signatures. Fig. l2C depicts a sorted list of the 208 global virus panel based on most charge per unit hypervariable VI or hypervariable V2 length. Fig. 12D depicts the M-group distributions of VI, V2 and V 1+V2 length and charge with CAP256SU WT (each in blue, medians in red and constructs in purple). Fig. 12E depicts CAP256SU design including 10 mutations. Fig. 12F depicts sequences of SHIV CAP256SU, CAP256SU UCA OPT. CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0, CAP256SU UCA OPT 3.0, and UCA OPT 3.0 K170R. Fig. 12G depicts neutralization of VR26UCA or VRC26.25, CHOI or CHOI RUA, PG9 or PG9999 RUA, PG16 or PG16 RUA, PCT64 LMCA or PCT64, or Rh- 1A or RhA-1 neutralization by CAP256SU_V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R_UCA or CAP256SU_V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R_maturebNAb. Fig. 12H depicts CAP256SU constructs and glycan shield filling.
[0091] Figure 13 shows non-limiting embodiments of ammo acid sequences listed in Table 2. These sequences comprise a signal peptide. A skilled artisan understands that any form of a recombinantly expressed protein based on these designs does not include a signal peptide which removed during cell processing.
[0092] Figure 14 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens -sortase designs.
[0093] Figures 15A to 15 J show rationale and design for a cocktail of V2 apex bNAb germline targeting Envelopes comprising optimized CAP256_wk34.80 based envelopes. Fig. 15A depicts a predicted CAP256UCAOPT v3 structure. Fig. 15B depicts an improved hypervariable VI loop. Fig. 15C depicts an improved hypervariable V2 loop. Fig. 15D depicts the glycan holes of CAP256wk34.80. Fig. 15E depicts possible PCT64UCA escape mutations. Fig. 15F depicts the predicted structure of PCT64 UCA interacting with a positively charged region (light chain) of the hypervariable V2 loop. Fig. 15G depicts variation in PCT64 Envs. Fig. 15H depicts a summary of the designs. Fig. 151 depicts neutralization testing experimental data for V2 apex UCA neutralization. Fig. 15J depicts construct designs CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_D167N and CAP256SU_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K.
[0094] Figure 16 shows amino acid sequences of non-limiting embodiments of optimized envelopes.
[0095] Figure 17 shows amino acid sequences and nucleic acid sequences encoding amino acid sequences of non-limiting embodiments of optimized envelopes. HV 1303230 to HV1303254 are gp!50 and gpl60 mRNA constructs designed for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_v4.0.
[0096] Figures 18A-18F depict examples and sequences for development of improved constructs and mRNAs Fig. 18A depicts the CAM13RRK + K168R (CAM13RRRK) construct reactivity tests. Fig. 18B depicts the CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_R171K reactivity to several UCAs. Fig. 18C depicts HIV-1 CAP256SU with all CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 backbone mutations introduced reactivity test. Fig. 18D depicts the CAP256 wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171K construct reactivity tests. Fig. 18E depicts the SOSIP mutations of strategy 1 for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 mRNA designs. Fig. 18F depicts the alignment of sequences for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; and mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; is depicted in Fig. 18 F. Dots indicate deletions and dashes indicate identities.
[0097] Figure 19 discloses exemplary mRNA sequences encoding an immunogen.
[0098] Figure 20 discloses depict examples and sequences for development of improved constructs and mRNAs. Figure discloses amino acid and nucleic acid sequences for HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0SOSIP.RnS2_101nQQavi,
HIV CAP256.wk34.c80 V2UCA OPT 4.0SOSIP.RnS2 K169R lOlnQQavi. and HIV_CAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCA_OPT_4.0_Rl 71 K SOSTP.RnS2_101nQQavi. Additional exemplary mRNA sequences encoding an immunogen are also disclosed along with the amino acid sequence of the encoded immunogen. The signal sequence is underlined in the amino acid sequences.
[0099] Figure 21 discloses exemplary nucleotide sequences encoding an immunogen. [0100] Figure 22 discloses exemplary amino acid sequences encoding an immunogen.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0101] The development of a safe, highly efficacious prophylactic HIV-1 vaccine is of paramount importance for the control and prevention of HIV- 1 infection. A major goal of HIV-1 vaccine development is the induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) (Immunol. Rev. 254: 225-244. 2013). BnAbs are protective in rhesus macaques against SHIV challenge, but as yet, are not induced by current vaccines. [0102] For the past 25 years, the HIV vaccine development field has used single or prime boost heterologous Envs as immunogens, but to date has not found a regimen to induce high levels of bnAbs.
[0103] Recently, anew paradigm for design of strategies for induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies was introduced, that of B cell lineage immunogen design (Nature Biotech. 30: 423, 2012) in which the induction of bnAb lineages is recreated. It was recently demonstrated the power of mapping the co-evolution of bnAbs and founder virus for elucidating the Env evolution pathways that lead to bnAb induction (Nature 496: 469, 2013). [0104] Sequences/Clones
[0105] Described herein are nucleic and amino acids sequences of HIV-1 envelopes. The sequences for use as immunogens are in any suitable form. In certain embodiments, the described HIV-1 envelope sequences are gpl60s. In certain embodiments, the described HIV-1 envelope sequences are gpl20s. Other sequences, for example but not limited to stable SOSIP trimer designs, gpl45s, gpl40s, both cleaved and uncleaved, gpl40 Envs with the deletion of the cleavage (C) site, fusion (F) and immunodominant (I) region in gp41- named as gpl40ACFI (gpl40CFI), gpl40 Envs with the deletion of only the cleavage (C) site and fusion (F) domain — named as gpl40ACF (gpl40CF), gpl40 Envs with the deletion of only the cleavage (C) — named gpl40AC (gpl40C) (See e.g. Liao et al. Virology7 2006, 353, 268-282), gpl50s, gp41s, which are readily derived from the nucleic acid and amino acid gpl60 sequences. In certain embodiments the nucleic acid sequences are codon optimized for optimal expression in a host cell, for example a mammalian cell, a rBCG cell or any other suitable expression system.
[0106] An HIV-1 envelope has various structurally defined fragments/forms: gpl60; gpl40— -including cleaved gpl40 and uncleaved gpl40 (gpl40C), gpl40CF, or gpl40CFI; gpl20 and gp41. A skilled artisan appreciates that these fragments/forms are defined not necessarily by their crystal structure, but by their design and bounds within the full length of the gpl60 envelope. While the specific consecutive amino acid sequences of envelopes from different strains are different, the bounds and design of these forms are well known and characterized in the art.
[0107] For example, it is well known in the art that during its transport to the cell surface, the gpl60 polypeptide is processed and proteolytically cleaved to gpl20 and gp41 proteins. Cleavages of gpl60 to gpl20 and gp41 occurs at a conserved cleavage site “REKR.’" See Chakrabarti et al. Journal of Virology vol. 76. pp. 5357-5368 (2002) see for example Figure 1, and Second paragraph in the Introduction on p. 5357; Binley et al. Journal of Virology vol. 76, pp. 2606-2616 (2002) for example at Abstract; Gao et al. Journal of Virology vol. 79, pp. 1154-1 163 (2005); Liao et al. Virology vol. 353(2): 268-282 (2006).
[0108] The role of the furin cleavage site was well understood both in terms of improving cleave efficiency, see Binley et al. supra, and eliminating cleavage, see Bosch and Pawlita, Virology 64 (5):2337-2344 (1990); Guo et al. Virology 174: 217-224 (1990); McCune et al. Cell 53:55-67 (1988); Liao et al. J Virol. Apr; 87(8):4185-201 (2013).
[0109] Likewise, the design of gpl40 envelope forms is also well known in the art, along with the various specific changes which give rise to the gpl40C (uncleaved envelope), gpl40CF and gpl40CFI forms. Envelope gpl40 forms are designed by introducing a stop codon within the gp41 sequence. See Chakrabarti et al. at Figure 1.
[0110] Envelope gpl40C refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a functional deletion of the cleavage (C) site, so that the gpl40 envelope is not cleaved at the furin cleavage site. The specification describes cleaved and uncleaved forms, and various furin cleavage site modifications that prevent envelope cleavage are known in the art. In some embodiments of the gpl40C form, two of the R residues in and near the furin cleavage site are changed to E, e g., RRVVEREKR (SEQ ID NO: X) is changed to ERVVEREKE (SEQ ID NO: X), and is one example of an uncleaved gpl40 form. Another example is the gpl40C form which has the REKR site changed to SEKS. See supra for references.
[0111] Envelope gpl40CF refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a deletion of the cleavage (C) site and fusion (F) region. Envelope gpl40CFI refers to a gpl40 HIV-1 envelope design with a deletion of the cleavage (C) site, fusion (F) and immunodominant (I) region in gp41. See Chakrabarti et al. Journal of Virology' vol. 76, pp. 5357-5368 (2002) see for example Figure 1, and Second paragraph in the Introduction on p. 5357; Binley et al.
Journal of Virology vol. 76, pp. 2606-2616 (2002) for example at Abstract; Gao et al. Journal of Virology' vol. 79, pp. 1154-1163 (2005); Liao et al. Virology' vol. 353(2): 268-282 (2006). [0112] In certain embodiments, the envelope design in accordance with the present invention involves deletion of residues (e.g., 5-11, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 amino acids) at the N- terminus. For delta N-terminal design, amino acid residues ranging from 4 residues or even fewer to 14 residues or even more are deleted. These residues are between the maturation (signal peptide, usually ending with CX, X can be any amino acid) and "VPVXXXX. . . In case of CH505 T/F Env as an example, 8 amino acids (italicized and underlined in the below sequence) were deleted: MRVMGIQRNYPQWWIWSMLGFWMLMICNGA^ZZZn VPVWKEAKTTLFCASDA KAYEKEVHNVWATHACVPTDPNPQE ... (SEQ ID NO: X)(rest of envelope sequence is indicated as c'. .. ”). In other embodiments, the delta N-design described for CH505 T/F envelope can be used to make delta N-designs of other CH505 envelopes. In certain embodiments, the invention relates generally to an immunogen, gpl60, gpl20 or gpl40, without an N-terminal Herpes Simplex gD tag substituted for amino acids of the N-terminus of gpl20, with an HIV leader sequence (or other leader sequence), and without the original about 4 to about 25, for example 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 amino acids of the N-terminus of the envelope (e.g. gpl20). See US Patent 10,040.826, e.g. at pages 10-12, the contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0113] The general strategy of deletion of N-terminal amino acids of envelopes results in proteins, for example gpl20s, expressed in mammalian cells that are primarily monomeric, as opposed to dimeric, and, therefore, solves the production and seal ability problem of commercial gpl20 Env vaccine production. In other embodiments, the amino acid deletions at the N-terminus result in increased immunogenicity of the envelopes.
[0114] In certain aspects, the invention provides composition and methods which CH505 Envs, as gpl20s, gpl40s cleaved and uncleaved, gpl45s, gpl50s and gpl60s, stabilized and/or multimerized trimers, as proteins, DNAs, RNAs. or any combination thereof, administered as primes and boosts to elicit immune response. CH505 Envs as proteins would be co-administered with nucleic acid vectors containing Envs to amplify antibody induction. In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods include any immunogenic HIV-1 sequences to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction. In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods include mosaic and/or consensus HIV-1 genes to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction. In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods include mosaic group M and/or consensus genes to give the best coverage for T cell help and cytotoxic T cell induction. In some embodiments, the mosaic genes are any suitable gene from the HIV-1 genome. In some embodiments, the mosaic genes are Env genes, Gag genes, Pol genes, Nef genes, or any combination thereof. See e.g. US Patent No. 7951377. In some embodiments the mosaic genes are bivalent mosaics. In some embodiments the mosaic genes are trivalent. In some embodiments, the mosaic genes are administered in a suitable vector with each immunization with Env gene inserts in a suitable vector and/or as a protein. In some embodiments, the mosaic genes, for example as bivalent mosaic Gag group M consensus genes, are administered in a suitable vector, for example but not limited to HSV2. would be administered with each immunization with Env gene inserts in a suitable vector, for example but not limited to HSV-2.
[0115] Nucleic acid sequences
[0116] In certain aspects the invention provides compositions and methods of Env genetic immunization either alone or with Env proteins to recreate the swarms of evolved viruses that have led to bnAb induction. Nucleotide-based vaccines offer a flexible vector format to immunize against virtually any protein antigen. Currently, two types of genetic vaccination are available for testing — DNAs and mRNAs.
[0117] In certain aspects the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as DNA. See Graham BS, Enama ME, Nason MC, Gordon IJ, Peel SA, et al. (2013) DNA Vaccine Delivered by aNeedle-Free Injection Device Improves Potency of Priming for Antibody and CD8+ T-Cell Responses after rAd5 Boost in a Randomized Clinical Trial. PLoS ONE 8(4): e59340, page 9. Various technologies for delivery of nucleic acids, as DNA and/or RNA. so as to elicit immune response, both T-cell and humoral responses, are known in the art and are under developments. In certain embodiments, DNA can be delivered as naked DNA. In certain embodiments, DNA is formulated for delivery by a gene gun. In certain embodiments, DNA is administered by electroporation, or by a needle-free injection technologies, for example but not limited to Biojector® device. In certain embodiments, the DNA is inserted in vectors. The DNA is delivered using a suitable vector for expression in mammalian cells. In certain embodiments the nucleic acids encoding the envelopes are optimized for expression. In certain embodiments DNA is optimized, e.g. codon optimized, for expression. In certain embodiments the nucleic acids are optimized for expression in vectors and/or in mammalian cells. In non-limiting embodiments these are bacterially derived vectors, adenovirus based vectors, rAdenovirus (e.g. Barouch DH, et al. Nature Med. 16: 319-23, 2010), recombinant mycobacteria (e.g. rBCG or M smegmatis) (Yu, JS et al. Clinical Vaccine Immunol. 14: 886- 093,2007; ibid 13: 1204-11,2006). and recombinant vaccinia type of vectors (Santra S. Nature Med. 16: 324-8, 2010), for example but not limited to ALVAC, replicating (Kibler KV et al., PLoS One 6: e25674, 2011 nov 9.) and non-replicating (Perreau M et al. J. virology 85: 9854-62, 2011) NYVAC. modified vaccinia Ankara (MV A)), adeno-associated virus, Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) replicons, Herpes Simplex Virus vectors, and other suitable vectors.
[0118] In certain aspects the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as DNA or RNA in suitable formulations. Various technologies which contemplate using DNA or RNA or may use complexes of nucleic acid molecules and other entities to be used in immunization. In certain embodiments, DNA or RNA is administered as nanoparticles consisting of low dose antigen-encoding DNA formulated with a block copolymer (amphiphilic block copolymer 704). See Cany et al.. Journal of Hepatology 2011 vol. 54 j 115-121; Amaoty et al., Chapter 17 in Yves Bigot (ed.), Mobile Genetic Elements: Protocols and Genomic Applications, Methods in Molecular Biology, vol. 859, pp293-305 (2012); Amaoty et al. (2013) Mol Genet Genomics. 2013 Aug;288(7-8):347-63. Nanocarrier technologies called Nanotaxi® for immunogenic macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Protein) delivery are under development. See for example technologies developed by incellart.
[0119] In certain aspects, the invention provides nucleic acids comprising sequences encoding envelopes of the invention. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are DNAs. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are mRNAs. In certain aspects, the invention provides expression vectors comprising the nucleic acids of the invention.
[0120] In certain aspects, the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising mRNAs encoding the inventive antibodies. In certain embodiments, these are optionally formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In certain embodiments, the mRNAs are modified. Modifications include without limitations modified ribonucleotides, poly-A tail, 5’cap.
[0121] Nucleic acid sequences provided herein, e.g. see Figure 19, 20, are provided as DNA sequences. However, it should be understood that such sequences also represent RNA sequences, for example, mRNA. For example, RNA polymerase can be used to make RNA sequences from DNA sequences. In RNA sequences, thymine will be uridine. In some embodiments, uridine will be 1-methyl-pseudouridine. In some embodiments, nucleic acids of the invention, including RNA sequences or mRNAs, can further comprise any type of modified nucleotides, including, but not limited to 5-methyl-cytidine. 6-methyl-adenosine. or modified uridine.
[0122] Nucleic acid sequences provided herein, e.g. see Figure 19, 20, are provided with a poly A tail length of 101 nucleotides. However, it should be understood that mRNA sequences can comprise different lengths of poly A tail. For example, in some embodiments 1 the poly A tail is about 85 to about 200 nucleotides long. For example, in some embodiments the poly A tail is 85 to 200 nucleotides long. In some embodiments the poly A tail is about 85 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments the poly A tail is 85 to 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments the poly A tail is about 90 to about 110 nucleotides long. In some embodiments the poly A tail is 90 to 110 nucleotides long.
[0123] In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids encoding the inventive envelopes. In non-limiting embodiments, the nucleic acids are mRNA. modified or unmodified, suitable for any use, e.g. but not limited to use as pharmaceutical compositions. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are formulated in lipid, such as but not limited to LNPs.
[0124] In some embodiments the antibodies are administered as nucleic acids, including but not limited to mRNAs which could be modified and/or unmodified. See US Pub 20180028645A1, US Pub 20090286852, US Pub 20130111615, US Pub 20130197068, US Pub 20130261172, US Pub 20150038558, US Pub 20160032316, US Pub 20170043037. US Pub 20170327842. US Patent 10,006,007, US Patent 9,371.511, US Patent 9.012,219, US Pub 20180265848. US Pub 20170327842._US Pub 20180344838A1 at least at paragraphs [0260] -[0281], US Pub 20190153425 for non-limiting embodiments of chemical modifications, wherein each content is incorporated by reference in its entirety7.
[0125] mRNAs delivered in LNP formulations have advantages over non-LNPs formulations. See US Pub 20180028645A1, US Pub 20190274968, US Pub 20180303925, wherein each content is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0126] In certain embodiments the nucleic acid encoding an envelope is operably linked to a promoter inserted an expression vector. In certain aspects the compositions comprise a suitable carrier. In certain aspects the compositions comprise a suitable adjuvant.
[0127] In certain aspects the invention provides an expression vector comprising any of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain aspects the invention provides an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding any of the polypeptides of the invention, wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acids are codon optimized for expression in a mammalian cell, in vivo or in vitro. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids consisting essentially of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides nucleic acids consisting of any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain embodiments the nucleic acid of the invention, is operably linked to a promoter and is inserted in an expression vector. In certain aspects the invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising the expression vector.
[0128] In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one of the nucleic acid sequences of the invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising any one of the nucleic acid sequences of invention. In certain aspects the invention provides a composition comprising at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding any one of the polypeptides of the invention.
[0129] In one embodiment, the nucleic acid is an RNA molecule. In one embodiment, the RNA molecule is transcribed from a DNA sequence described herein. In some embodiments, the RNA molecule is encoded by one of the inventive sequences. In another embodiment, the nucleotide sequence comprises an RNA sequence transcribed by a DNA sequence encoding the polypeptide sequence of the sequences of the invention, or a variant thereof or a fragment thereof. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention provides an RNA molecule encoding one or more of inventive antibodies. The RNA may be plus-stranded. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the RNA molecule can be translated by cells without needing any intervening replication steps such as reverse transcription.
[0130] In some embodiments, a RNA molecule of the invention may have a 5' cap (e.g. but not limited to a 7-methylguanosine, 7mG(5')ppp(5')NlmpNp, CleanCap® (e.g., the AG, GG. AU, 3’OMe AG, or 3’OMe GG CleanCap®), or ARCA). This cap can enhance in vivo translation of the RNA. The 5' nucleotide of an RNA molecule useful with the invention may have a 5' triphosphate group. In a capped RNA this may be linked to a 7-methylguanosine via a 5'-to-5' bridge. A RNA molecule may have a 3' poly-A tail. It may also include a poly -A polymerase recognition sequence (e.g. AAUAAA) near its 3' end. In some embodiments, a RNA molecule useful with the invention may be single-stranded. In some embodiments, a RNA molecule useful with the invention may comprise synthetic RNA.
[0131] The recombinant nucleic acid sequence can be an optimized nucleic acid sequence. Such optimization can increase or alter the immunogenicity of the envelope. Optimization can also improve transcription and/or translation. Optimization can include one or more of the following: low GC content leader sequence to increase transcription; mRNA stability and codon optimization; addition of a Kozak sequence (e.g.. GCC ACC) for increased translation; addition of an immunoglobulin (Ig) leader sequence encoding a signal peptide; and eliminating to the extent possible cis-acting sequence motifs (i.e.. internal TATA boxes). [0132] Methods for in vitro transfection of mRNA and detection of envelope expression are known in the art.
[0133] Methods for expression and immunogenicity determination of nucleic acid encoded envelopes are known in the art.
[0134] In certain aspects the invention contemplates using immunogenic compositions wherein immunogens are delivered as recombinant proteins. V arious methods for production and purification of recombinant proteins, including trimers such as but not limited to SOSIP based trimers, suitable for use in immunization are known in the art. In certain embodiments recombinant proteins are produced in CHO cells.
[0135] The immunogenic envelopes can also be administered as a protein boost in combination with a variety' of nucleic acid envelope primes (e.g., HIV -1 Envs delivered as DNA expressed in viral or bacterial vectors).
[0136] Dosing of proteins and nucleic acids can be readily determined by a skilled artisan. A single dose of nucleic acid can range from a few nanograms (ng) to a few micrograms (pg) or milligram of a single immunogenic nucleic acid. Recombinant protein dose can range from a few' pg micrograms to a few' hundred micrograms, or milligrams of a single immunogenic polypeptide.
[0137] Administration: The compositions can be formulated with appropriate carriers using known techniques to yield compositions suitable for various routes of administration. In certain embodiments the compositions are delivered via intramuscular (IM), via subcutaneous, via intravenous, via nasal, via mucosal routes, or any other suitable route of immunization.
[0138] The compositions can be formulated with appropriate carriers and adjuvants using techniques to yield compositions suitable for immunization. The compositions can include an adjuvant, such as, for example but not limited to, alum, 3M052, poly IC, MF-59 or other squalene-based adjuvant, ASOIB, or other liposomal based adjuvant suitable for protein or nucleic acid immunization. In certain embodiments, the adjuvant is GSK AS01E adjuvant containing MPL and QS21. This adjuvant has been shown by GSK to be as potent as the similar adjuvant AS01B but to be less reactogenic using HBsAg as vaccine antigen [Leroux- Roels et al., IABS Conference, April 2013], In certain embodiments, TLR agonists are used as adjuvants. In other embodiment, adjuvants which break immune tolerance are included in the immunogenic compositions.
[0139] In certain embodiments, the compositions and methods comprise any suitable agent or immune modulation which could modulate mechanisms of host immune tolerance and release of the induced antibodies. In non-limiting embodiments modulation includes PD-1 blockade; T regulatory cell depletion; CD40L hyperstimulation; soluble antigen administration, wherein the soluble antigen is designed such that the soluble agent eliminates B cells targeting dominant epitopes, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, an immunomodulatory agent is administered in at time and in an amount sufficient for transient modulation of the subject's immune response so as to induce an immune response which comprises broad neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1 envelope. Non-limiting examples of such agents is any one of the agents described herein: e.g. chloroquine (CQ), PTP1B Inhibitor - CAS 765317- 72-4 - Calbiochem or MSI 1436 clodronate or any other bisphosphonate; a Foxol inhibitor, e.g. 344355 | Foxol Inhibitor, AS1842856 - Calbiochem; Gleevac, anti-CD25 antibody, anti- CCR4 Ab, an agent which binds to a B cell receptor for a dominant HIV-1 envelope epitope, or any combination thereof. In non-limiting embodiments, the modulation includes administering an anti-CTLA4 antibody. Non-limiting examples are ipilimumab and tremelimumab. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise administering a second immunomodulatory agent, wherein the second and first immunomodulatory agents are different.
[0140] There are various host mechanisms that control bnAbs. For example, highly somatically mutated antibodies become autoreactive and/or less fit (Immunity 8: 751, 1998; PloS Comp. Biol. 6 e!000800, 2010; J. Thoret. Biol. 164:37, 1993); Polyreactive/autoreactive naive B cell receptors (unmutated common ancestors of clonal lineages) can lead to deletion of Ab precursors (Nature 373: 252, 1995; PNAS 107: 181, 2010; J. Immunol. 187: 3785, 2011); Abs with long HCDR3 can be limited by tolerance deletion (JI 162: 6060, 1999; JCI 108: 879, 2001). BnAb knock-in mouse models are providing insights into the various mechanisms of tolerance control of MP ER BnAb induction (deletion, anergy, receptor editing). Other variations of tolerance control likely will be operative in limiting BnAbs with long HCDR3s, high levels of somatic hypermutations.
[0141] For a summary7 of CH505 sequences and designs see US Patent 10,968,255, e.g. but not limited to Table 1, Figures 22-24, and US Patent 10,004,800 (Figure 17). [0142] It is readily understood that the envelope glycoproteins referenced in various examples and figures comprise a signal/leader sequence. It is well known in the art that HIV- 1 envelope glycoprotein is a secretory protein with a signal or leader peptide sequence that is removed during processing and recombinant expression (without removal of the signal peptide, the protein is not secreted). See for example Li et al. Control of expression, glycosylation, and secretion of HIV- 1 gp!20 by homologous and heterologous signal sequences. Virology 204(l):266-78 (1994) ("Li et al. 1994”). at first paragraph, and Li et al. Effects of inefficient cleavage of the signal sequence of HIV- 1 gpl20 on its association with calnexin, folding, and intracellular transport. PNAS 93:9606-9611 (1996) (“Li et al. 1996”), at 9609, Any suitable signal sequence could be used. In some embodiments the leader sequence is the endogenous leader sequence. Most of the gpl20 and gpl60 amino acid sequences include the endogenous leader sequence. In other non-limiting examples, the leader sequence is human Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TP A) sequence, human CD5 leader sequence (e g. MPMGSLQPLATLYLLGMLVASVLA; SEQ ID NO: X). Most of the chimeric designs include CD5 leader sequence. A skilled artisan appreciates that when used as immunogens, and for example when recombinantly produced, the amino acid sequences of these proteins do not comprise the leader peptide sequences.
[0143] HIV-1 envelope trimers and other envelope designs
[0144] This example shows that stabilized HIV-1 Env trimer immunogens show enhanced antigenicity for broadly neutralizing antibodies and are not recognized by non-neutralizing antibodies. The example also describes additional envelope modifications and designs. In some embodiments these envelopes, including but not limited to trimers are further multimerized, and/or used as particulate, high-density array in liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles. Any one of the envelopes of the invention could be designed and expressed as described herein.
[0145] A stabilized chimeric SOSIP designs were used to generate CH505 trimers. This design was applicable to diverse viruses from multiple clades.
[0146] Elicitation of neutralizing antibodies is one goal for antibody-based vaccines. Neutralizing antibodies target the native trimeric HIV-1 Env on the surface virions. The trimeric HIV-1 envelope protein consists of three protomers each containing a gpl20 and gp41 heterodimer. Recent immunogen design efforts have generated soluble near-native mimics of the Env trimer that bind to neutralizing antibodies but not non-neutralizing antibodies. The recapitulation of the native trimer could be a key component of vaccine induction of neutralizing antibodies. Neutralizing Abs target the native trimeric HIV-1 Env on the surface of viruses (Poignard et al. J Virol. 2003 Jan;77(l):353-65; Parren et al. J Virol. 1998 Dec;72(12): 10270-4.; Yang et al. J Virol. 2006 Nov;80(22): 11404-8.). The HIV-1 Env protein consists of three protomers of gp!20 and gp41 heterodimers that are noncovalently linked together (Center et al. J Virol. 2002 Aug;76(15):7863-7.). Soluble near-native trimers preferentially bind neutralizing antibodies as opposed to non-neutralizing antibodies (Sanders et al. PLoS Pathog. 2013 Sep; 9(9): el 003618).
[0147] Sequential Env vaccination has elicited broad neutralization in the plasma of one macaque. The overall goal of our project is to increase the frequency of vaccine induction of bnabs in the plasma of primates with Env vaccination. We hypothesized that vaccination with immunogens that target bnAb B cell lineage and mimic native trimers will increase the frequency of broadly neutralizing plasma antibodies. One goal is increasing the frequency of vaccine induction of bnAb in the plasma of primates by Env vaccination. It is expected that vaccination with immunogens that target bnAb B cell lineages and mimic the native trimers on virions will increase the frequency of broadly neutralizing plasma antibodies.
[0148] Previous work has shown that CH505 derived soluble trimers are hard to produce. From a study published by Julien et al in 2015 (Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2015 Sep 22; 112(38): 11947-11952.) it was shown that while CH505 produced comparable amounts of protein by transient transfection, only 5% of the CH505 protein formed trimer which 5 times low er than the gold standard viral strain BG505. Provided here are non-limiting embodiments of well-folded trimers for Env immunizations.
[0149] Near-native soluble trimers using the 6R.SOSIP.664 design are capable of generating autologous tier 2 neutralizing plasma antibodies in the plasma (Sanders et al. 2015), which provides a starting point for designing immunogens to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies. While these trimers are preferentially antigenic for neutralizing antibodies, they still possess the ability to expose the V3 loop, which generally results in strain-specific binding and neutralizing antibodies after vaccination. Using the unliganded structure the BG505.6R.SOSIP.664 has been stabilized by adding cysteines at position 201 and 433 to constrain the conformational flexibility such that the V3 loop is maintained unexposed (Kwon et al. Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2015 Jul; 22(7): 522-531.).
[0150] Provided are engineered trimeric immunogens derived from multiple viruses from CH505. We generated chimeric 6R.SOSIP.664, chimeric disulfide stabilized (DS) 6R.SOSIP.664 (Kwon et al Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2015 Jul; 22(7): 522-531.), chimeric 6R.SOSIP.664v4.1 (DeTaeye et al. Cell. 2015 Dec 17;163(7): 1702-15. doi: 10.I016/j.cell.20I5. 11.056), and chimeric 6R.SOSIP.664v4.2 (DeTaeye et al. Cell. 2015 Dec 17;163(7): 1702-15. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.1 1.056). The 6R.SOSIP.664 is the basis for all of these designs and is made as a chimera of C.CH0505 and A.BG505. The gpl20 of C.CH505 was fused with the BG505 inner domain gpl20 sequence within the alpha helix 5 (a5) to result in the chimeric protein. The chimeric gpl20 is disulfide linked to the A.BG505 gp41 as outlined by Sanders et al. (PLoS Pathog. 2013 Sep; 9(9): el003618). These immunogens were designed as chimeric proteins that possess the BG505 gp41 connected to the CH505 gpl20, since the BG505 strain is particularly adept at forming well-folded, closed trimers. This envelope design retains the CH505 CD4 binding site that is targeted by the CH 103 and CH235 broadly neutralizing antibody lineages that were isolated from CH505.
[0151] Based on the various designs, any other suitable envelope, for example but not limited to CH505 envelopes as described in US Patent 10,004,800, incorporated herein by reference, can be designed. Other suitable envelopes include, but are not limited to. CAP256SU, CAP256wk34.80, CAMB, Q23, an T250 envelopes.
[0152] Recombinant envelopes as trimers could be produced and purified by any suitable method. For a non-limiting example of purification methods see Ringe RP, Yasmeen A, Ozorowski G, Go EP, Pritchard LK, Guttman M, Ketas TA, Cottrell CA, Wilson IA, Sanders RW, Cupo A, Crispin M, Lee KK. Desaire H, Ward AB, Klasse PJ. Moore JP. 2015.
Influences on the design and purification of soluble, recombinant native-like HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein tnmers. J Virol 89: 12189 -12210. doi: 10.1128/JVI.01768-15.
[0153] Multimeric Envelopes
[0154] Presentation of antigens as particulates reduces the B cell receptor affinity necessary for signal transduction and expansion (See Baptista et al. EMBO J. 2000 Feb 15; 19(4): 513— 520). Displaying multiple copies of the antigen on a particle provides an avidity effect that can overcome the low affinity between the antigen and B cell receptor. The initial B cell receptor specific for pathogens can be low affinity, which precludes vaccines from being able to stimulate and expand B cells of interest. In particular, very few naive B cells from which HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibodies arise can bind to soluble HIV-1 Envelope. Provided are envelopes, including but not limited to trimers as particulate, high-density array on liposomes or other particles, for example but not limited to nanoparticles. See e.g. He et al. Nature Communications 7, Article number: 12041 (2016), doi : 10.1038/ncomms 12041;
Bamrungsap et al. Nanomedicine, 2012, 7 (8), 1253-1271. [0155] To improve the interaction between the naive B cell receptor and immunogens, envelope designed can be created to wherein the envelope is presented on particles, e.g. but not limited to nanoparticle. In some embodiments, the HIV-1 Envelope trimer could be fused to ferritin. Ferritin protein self assembles into a small nanoparticle with three fold axis of symmetry'. At these axes the envelope protein is fused. Therefore, the assembly of the threefold axis also clusters three HIV-1 envelope protomers together to form an envelope trimer. Each ferritin particle has 8 axes which equates to 8 trimers being displayed per particle. See e.g. Sliepen et al. Retrovirology201512:82, DOI: 10.1186/sl2977-015-0210-4.
[0156] Any suitable ferritin sequence could be used. In non-limiting embodiments, ferritin sequences are disclosed in US Patent 10,961,283, incorporated herein by reference.
[0157] Ferritin nanoparticle linkers: The ability to form HIV-1 envelope ferritin nanoparticles relies self-assembly of 24 ferritin subunits into a single ferritin nanoparticle. The addition of a ferritin subunit to the C-terminus of HIV-1 envelope may interfere with the ability of the ferritin subunit to fold properly and or associate with other ferritin subunits. When expressed alone ferritin readily forms 24-subunit nanoparticles, however appending it to envelope only yields nanoparticles for certain envelopes. Since the ferritin nanoparticle forms in the absence of envelope, the envelope could be sterically hindering the association of ferritin subunits. Thus, we designed ferritin with elongated glycine-serine linkers to further distance the envelope from the ferritin subunit. To make sure that the glycine linker is attached to ferritin at the correct position, we created constructs that attach at second amino acid position or the fifth amino acid position. The first four n-terminal amino acids of natural Helicobacter pylori ferritin are not needed for nanoparticle formation but may be critical for proper folding and oligomerization when appended to envelope. Thus, we designed constructs with and without the Leucine, serine, and lysine amino acids following the glycine-serine linker. The goal will be to find a linker length that is suitable for formation of envelope nanoparticles when ferritin is appended to most envelopes. Any suitable linker between the envelope and ferritin could be uses, so long as the fusion protein is expressed and the trimer is formed.
[0158] Another approach to multimerize expression constructs uses staphylococcus Sortase A transpeptidase ligation to conjugate inventive envelope trimers, for e.g. but not limited to cholesterol. Non-limiting embodiments of envelope designs for use in Sortase A reaction are shown in Figures 5A-B and Figure 14 and Figures 21 and 22. The trimers can then be embedded into liposomes via the conjugated cholesterol. To conjugate the trimer to cholesterol either a C-terminal LPXTG tag or a N-terminal pentaglycine repeat tag is added to the envelope trimer gene. Cholesterol is also synthesized with these two tags. Sortase A is then used to covalently bond the tagged envelope to the cholesterol. The sortase A-tagged trimer protein can also be used to conjugate the trimer to other peptides, proteins, or fluorescent labels. In non-limiting embodiments, the sortase A tagged trimers are conjugated to ferritin to form nanoparticles. Any suitable ferritin can be used.
[0159] The invention provides design of envelopes and trimer designs wherein the envelope comprises a linker which permits addition of a lipid, such as but not limited to cholesterol, via a Sortase A reaction. See e g. Tsukiji, S. and Nagamune, T. (2009), Sortase-Mediated Ligation: A Gift from Gram-Positive Bacteria to Protein Engineering. ChemBioChem, 10: 787-798. Doi: 10. 1002/cbic.200800724; Proft. T. Sortase-mediated protein ligation: an emerging biotechnology tool for protein modification and 36mmobilization. Biotechnol Lett (2010) 32: 1. Doi: 10.1007/sl0529-009-01 16-0; Lena SchmohL Dirk Schwarzer, Sortase- mediated ligations for the site-specific modification of proteins, Current Opinion in Chemical Biology, Volume 22, October 2014, Pages 122-128, ISSN 1367-5931, dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cbpa.2014.09.020; Tabata et al. Anticancer Res. 2015 Aug;35(8):4411- 7; Pntz et al. J. Org. Chem. 2007, 72, 3909-3912.
[0160] The lipid modified envelopes and trimers could be formulated as liposomes. Any suitable liposome composition is contemplated.
[0161] The lipid modified and multimerized envelopes and trimers could be formulated as liposomes. Any suitable liposome composition is contemplated.
[0162] Nomenclature for trimers: chim.6R.DS.SOSIP.664 is SOSIP.I; CHIM.6R.SOSIP.664 is SOSIP.II; CHIM.6R.SOSIP.664V4.1 is SOSIP.III.
[0163] V2 optimization
[0164] The CH505 HIV-1 virus has been subject to intensive study as a vaccine reagent based on the observation that during the course of the natural CH505 HIV-1 infection, potent broadly neutralizing antibodies were generated by the host that targeted the CD4bs region. Here we have designed an immunogen based on the surprising finding that the HIV-1 CH505 transmitted-founder (TF) virus Envelopes, when used as vaccine, have the capacity to induce V2 apex directed heterologous neutralizing antibody responses. This has been observed in a knoc — in mice, rabbits and rhesus macaques, and in one CH505 SHIV infected macaque. These results raise the prospect of ultimately creating a dual -targeting CH505-based immunogen design that can induce both V2 apex and CD4bs broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). The designs we propose focus on enhancing both the initiation of appropriate V2 apex targeting neutralizing antibody and expand the breadth of the response.
[0165] Despite the fact the CH505 TF Envelope can elicit V2 apex neutralizing antibody responses, it is not particularly sensitive to mature V2 apex bNAbs and is not neutralized by putative V2 apex bNAb precursors. We hypothesized that these factors could be limit the successful V2 apex bNAb induction, and that CH505 TF variants with improved sensitivity to V2 apex mature and precursor antibodies might serve as better immunogens.
[01 6] Thus, we used our previously published statistically robust and phylogenetically corrected strategy7 to compare the CH505 TF to amino acid and glycan signatures that associate with sensitivity to multiple V2 apex bNAbs (Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe (2019) 25:59-72). We found that CH505 TF carried resistance signatures at 10 sites, and by introducing favorable mutations at these sites, we designed a variant called V2 SET OPT (signature-based epitope targeted optimized) (Fig. 1). Shorter and more positively charged hypervariable VI and V2 loops are significantly associated with neutralization sensitivity' bymature V2 apex bNAbs, so yve also introduced optimal VI and V2 hypervariable loops from tyvo natural Envs, ZM233.6 and T250-4. respectively, into our constructs.
[0167] We next applied signature analyses to neutralization data for 109-208 global viruses tested against unmutated or early ancestral antibodies that ultimately gave rise to antibody lineages that targeted the V2 apex and potent broadly neutralizing antibodies: CH04 UCA, CAP256-VRC26 and PCT64 early intermediates, and heavy and/or light chain germline reverted PG9 and PGT145. Using this strategy7, we identified signatures associated with sensitivity7 to V2 apex precursors (Fig. 2).
[0168] The hypervariable loop characteristics associated with sensitivity to V2 apex precursors were similar to those of the mature, and hence, the hypervariable VI and V2 loop modifications from V2 SET OPT were retained.
[0169] The first round of V2 optimization yvas successful in improving sensitivity to all mature V2 apex bNAbs and for 2 out of 6 UCAs tested (CHOI and PCT64). A further round of iterative design optimization yvas carried out to improve reactivity against the remaining 4 UCAs. These designs introduced three mutations H130D. K169R and Q170R. The first mutation was based on the consideration that D-130 yvas a sensitivity signature for PCT64 UCA (while H-130 yvas sensitivity' signature for CH04 UCA) and yvas introduced yvith the aim of improving sensitivity to PCT64 UCA. The K169R and Q170R mutations were introduced with the aim of improving sensitivity’ to PG9 and PG16 UCAs. Both of these mutations were found to improve the PG9 and PG16 UCAs in the background of an SIV strain, while the latter Q170R was also found to be the strongest sensitivity signature associated with sensitivity to fully germline reverted PG9 antibody (both heavy and light chains reverted) in the PG9 epitope. Introduction of these 3 mutations in the context of CH505.TF.V2UCA.OPT2.N332 was found to improve sensitivity to PG9 and PG16 UCAs, while retaining sensitivity to CHOI and PCT64 UCAs and to all mature V2 apex bNAbs. [0170] In non-limiting embodiments, these vaccines are being expressed as chimeric SOSIP proteins, and so have CH505 TF gpl20s, with a BG505 gp41 that end at HIV-1 HXB2 numbering position 664. SOSIP proteins are modified Env proteins that are stabilized for expression as native-like soluble trimers.
[0171] These sensitivity mutations in a CH505 TF background expressed as SOSIP proteins we propose will result in immunogens that are more susceptible to V2-apex antibodies, and thus may be better able to trigger and stimulate them.
[0172] The modified sequence we are suggesting trying as immunogens are enclosed. We start the alignment with CH505.TF as a reference, the natural transmitted founder virus that we are building mutations into. We follow with full length protein sequences that contain the amino acid modifications we believe may be advantageous. We include the natural strains ZM233.6 and T250-4 in the alignment, as we included their hypervariable regions.
[0173] Table 1 shows V2 Optimized CH505 TF immunogens
Figure imgf000040_0001
[0174] Non-limiting embodiments of sequences of the envelopes in Table 1 are described in Figures 3, 4, and 5 shows non-limiting embodiments of multimerization designs, including ferritin and/or sortase, which could be used as guidance to design V2OPT CH505T/F designs. In Figures 4C-D (see Table 2 below), CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2 envelope sequence is shown as a gp 160 envelope. This V2 optimized design could be used as the basis to design any suitable protomer, wherein in non-limiting embodiments the protomer can form stabilized trimer. Non-limiting designs of envelope protomers include SOSIP designs, designs comprising F14 mutations (See US Pub 20210379177, incorporated herein by reference), and so forth. In non-limiting embodiments, any of the envelope designs, including without limitation designs in Figures 3, 4, or 5, could comprise mutations H130D, K169R and/or Q170R.
[0175] Table 2 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens. See Figure 4C- 4D, 13, 16, 17 and 20.
Figure imgf000041_0001
Figure imgf000042_0001
Figure imgf000043_0001
Figure imgf000044_0001
Figure imgf000045_0002
[0176] Figure 5 shows non-limiting embodiments of multimerization designs, including ferritin and/or sortase, which could be used as guidance to design any of the envelopes in Table 2 or 4 as multimeric designs. In Figures 4C-D, CH505.V2UCAOPT.ver2 envelope sequence is shown as a gpl60 envelope. This V2 optimized design could be used as the basis to design any suitable protomer, wherein in non-limiting embodiments the protomer can form a stabilized trimer. Non-limiting designs of envelope protomers include SOSIP designs, designs comprising F14 mutations (SeeUS Pub 20210379177, incorporated herein by reference), and so forth.
[0177] Table 3 shows non-limiting embodiments of optimized immunogens — sortase design.
See Figure 14.
Figure imgf000045_0001
[0178] The trimer could be incorporated in a nanoparticle, including without limitation any ferritin-based nanoparticle.
[0179] Throughout the application amino acid positions numbers refer to HXB2 numbering. [0180] Any of the immunogens herein may be encoded by a nucleic acid. Figures 4A, 4D, 5 A. 5B, 5E, 14, 17, 20 and 21 provide non-limiting examples of nucleic acids encoding an immunogen. In certain embodiments, the nucleic acid may be a DNA, an RNA, or an mRNA. Non-limiting examples of mRNA nucleic acids encoding an immunogen of the present technology include, but are not limited to, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0.A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coA.Q23_17CHIM.SOSIPV5.2.8 293F (HV1301552)-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coCAP256.wk34.c80 SOSIP.RnS2 (HV 1303049)- Al 01, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coCAP256.wk34.c80_V2UCAOPT_v3.0 SOSIP.RnS2(HV1303050)-A101, 2560_pUC- ccTEV-coHV 1303230- Al 01 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV 1303231 - Al 01 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303232-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303233-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303234-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303235-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV 1303236- Al 01 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV 1303237- A 101 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303238-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303239-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303240-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303241-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV 1303242- A 101, 2560 pUC-ccTEV-coHV 1303243- A 101 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV 1303244- Al 01 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV 1303245-A 101 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303246-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303247-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303248-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303249-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303250-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV1303251-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV 1303252- A 101 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHV 1303253- A 101 , 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303254-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- coHV1303326,A.Q23.6R.DS.SOS.GS.I535M.K658Q_E659D_Igss-A101, 2560_pUC- ccTEV-coHV1303327,A.Q23.DS.SOSL.GS.I535M.K658Q_E659D_Igss-A101, 2560_pUC- ccTEV-coHV1303328,A.Q23.6R.DS.SOS.GS.I535M.K658Q E659D Igss-AlOl, and 2560_pUC-ccTEV-coHVl 303329, A.Q23. DS. SOSL.GS.I535M.K658Q_E659D_Igss-Al 01, mma3_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, mma4_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, mma5_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNA3_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNA4_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0-A101, 2560_pUC-ccTEV- co.mRNA5_CAP256SUJJCA_OPT_4.0-Al 01, mma4_CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK, mma5_CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK, mma6_CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK, mma4_C AP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK_D 167N, mma5_C AP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK D 167N, mma6_C AP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK_D 167N, mma4 CAP256 wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171 K, mma5_C AP256_wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171 K, mma6_CAP256_wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171 K, mma5U.CAM13.RRK.6R.DS.SOSIP.UFO.HV1302437, mma5.CAM13.RRK.6R.DS.SOSIP.UFO.HV1302437. It will be understood that nonidentical nucleic acid sequences may encode the same amino acid sequence. As such these examples do not exclude nucleic acid sequences that encode immunogens with the same amino acid sequence but possess different nucleic acid sequences.
[0181] Exemplary constructs are provided in Table 4.
Figure imgf000047_0001
Figure imgf000048_0001
Figure imgf000049_0001
Figure imgf000050_0001
Figure imgf000051_0001
Figure imgf000052_0001
Figure imgf000053_0001
Figure imgf000054_0001
Figure imgf000055_0001
Figure imgf000056_0001
Figure imgf000057_0001
Figure imgf000058_0001
Figure imgf000059_0001
Figure imgf000060_0001
Figure imgf000061_0001
Figure imgf000062_0001
Figure imgf000063_0001
Figure imgf000064_0001
Figure imgf000065_0001
Figure imgf000066_0001
Figure imgf000067_0001
Figure imgf000068_0001
Figure imgf000069_0001
Figure imgf000070_0001
Figure imgf000071_0001
Figure imgf000072_0001
[0182] Modifications disclosed include (all positions are based on HXB2 numbering):
• ¥7121 includes a Y712I substitution. Without being bound by theory, this modification increase expression of Env on cell surface. See Labranche et al. J. Virol. 69(9):5217-5227 (1995). • Sodroski includes substitutions H66A, A582T, and L587A. Without being bound by theory, this modification prevents CD4-induced conformations. See Pacheco et al. J Virol. 91 (5): e02219-16 (2017).
• F14 includes substitutions A204V, V208L, V68I, and V255L. Without being bound by theory, this modification prevents CD4-induced conformations. See Henderson et al. Nat Commun. 11 : 520 (2020).
• SOSIPincludes substitutions A501C, T605C, and I559P. Without being bound by theory7, this modification stabilizes prefusion conformation. See Sanders et al. J. Virol. 76. 8875-8889 (2002).
• SOS includes substitutions A501C and T605C. Without being bound by theory, this modification stabilizes prefusion conformation. See Sanders et al. J. Virol. 76, 8875- 8889 (2002).
• DS includes substitutions 1201 C and A433C. Without being bound by theory, this modification fixes prefusion conformation. See Kwon et al. Nat Struct Mol Biol 22:522-531 (2015).
• 3mut includes substitutions N302M, T320L, and A329P. Without being bound by theory, this modification stabilizes trimer apex, improve thermostability7. See Chuang, G-Y et al. J Virol 94:e00074-20 (2020)
• 2G includes substitutions D636G and T569G. Without being bound by theory, this modification prevents postfusion gp41 helical transition. See Guenaga J., et al. Immunity 46(5):792-803.e3 (2017).
• RnS includes substitutions E442N, S437P, A204I, I573F, K588E, D589V, Y609P, K651F, S655I, and I535N. It replaces rare and/or destabilizing mutations from wildty pe Env. (Specific to CAP256wk34.80 Env, but we also used for CAP256SU based on its high similarity to the former. Due to conflict with F14 mutation A204V, when RnS are combined with Fl 4, the A204V in F14 was used. ). See Gorman J., et al. Cell Reports 31(1): 107488 (2020).
• Signal Peptide #1 replaces wildtype signal peptide with MAISGVPVLGFFIIAVLMSAQESWA (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification improves expression of mRNA constructs.
• Glycine-Serine linker #1 replace 508-REKR-511 yvith GGGGSGGGGS (SEQ ID NO: X), a flexible linker between gp!20 & gp41 to replace furin cleavage. Also referred to as modification "L". See Sharma S.K., et al. Cell Reports 11 (4): 539-550 (2015).
• RRRRRR replaces 508-REKR-51 1 with RRRRRR and replaces native furin cleavage site with a modified furin cleavage sequence between gpl20 & gp41. Without being bound by theory, this modification increases cleavage frequency. Also referred to as modification "6R or R6". See Ringe RP et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2013 Nov 5: 110(45):18256-61.
• SIVMac CT replaces wildtype cytoplasmic tail (HXB2 713-854) with truncated SIVMac cytoplasmic tail RPVFSSPPSYFQ (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification improves expression of Env on cell-surface when expressed by mRNA immunogens. See Postler T.S., Desrosiers R.C. J. Virol. K . - 15 (2013).
• GS replaces sequence from HXB2 546-568 with GSAGSAGSGSAGSGSAGSGSAGS (SEQ ID NO: X) and replaces the unstable portion (23 amino acids) of envelope heptad repeat 1 with a flexible linker of equivalent size. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
• T316W includes substitution T316W. Without being bound by theory', this modification includes hydrophobic amino acid in the V3 loop to facilitate packing of the V3 loop and prevent unwanted exposure. See de Taeye SW, Ozorowski G, Torrents de la Pena A, et al. Cell. 2015;163(7): 1702-1715.
• I535M includes substitution I535M. Without being bound by theory', this modification stabilizes of the interprotomer contacts in gp41. See de Taeye SW, Ozorowski G, Torrents de la Pena A, et al. Cell. 2015; 163(7): 1702-1715.
• deltaG deletes HIV-1 envelope Glycine at position 29. Without being bound by theory', this modification presumes Glycine 29 to be the final amino acid in the signal peptide. Glycine 29 is removed when an artificial signal sequence is added. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
• LL855/6AA includes substitutions L855A and L856A. Without being bound by theory', this modification is a mutation of a conserved dileucine motif that mediates endocytosis of HIV- 1 envelope. Without being bound by theory, when combined with Y712I boosts surface expression of HIV- 1 envelope. See By land R et al. Mol Biol Cell. 2007 Feb; 18(2)414-25. • IGHVss replace wildtype signal peptide with MGWSCIILFLVATATGVHA (SEQ ID NO: X). a mouse immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region signal sequence. Without being bound by theory, this modification enhances protein secretion from cells. UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot Accession Number P01750. Also referred as "mlgss". See Cheng KW et al. Biochem J. 2021;478(12):2309-2319.
• BPrlss replaces wildtype signal peptide with MDSKGSSQKGSRLLLLLVVSNLLLPQGVLA (SEQ ID NO: X), a bovine prolactin signal sequence. Without being bound by theory', this modification enhances protein secretion from cells. See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
• PC includes substitutions S655K and K658Q. Without being bound by theory, this modification includes contact amino acids between envelope protomers. Without being bound by theory, this modification stabilizes sequence found in BG505. Protomer contacts are referred to as "PC". See Saunders et al. Unpublished.
• H66A includes substitution H66A. Without being bound by theory, substitution in gpl20 that modulates the transition from the unliganded conformation of envelope to the CD4-bound state. See Pacheco B, et al. J Virol. 2017;91(5):e02219-16.
• 2560 pUC-ccTEV-AlOl 5’UTR includes aGcATAAAAGTCTCAACACAACATATACAAAACAAACGAATCTCAAGCAA TCAAGCATTCTACTTCTATTGCAGCAATTTAAATCATTTCTTTTAAAGCAA AAGCAATTTTCTGAAAATTTTCACCATTTACGAACGATAGCGCT (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification is an improved 5’ UTR sequence for mRNA stability and half-life from screens. See Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh, Drew Weissman et al.
• 2560 pUC-ccTEV-AlOl 3’UTR includes actagtAGTGACTGACTAGGATCTGGTTACCACTAAACCAGCCTCAAGAACAC CCGAATGGAGTCTCTAAGCTACATAATACCAACTTACACTTACAAAATGTT GTCCCCCAAAATGTAGCCATTCGTATCTGCTCCTAATAAAAAGAAAGTTTC TTCACATTCT (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification is an improved 5' UTR sequence for mRNA stability' and half-life from screens. See Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh, Drew Weissman et al.
• poly A (immediatly after 3'UTR) includes
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAA (SEQ ID NO: X). Without being bound by theory, this modification is an improved polyA tail sequence for mRNA stability and half-life. See Jalkanen et al. Semin Cell Dev Biol. 34:24-32 (2014).
• mRNA codon optimization includes a reverse translation of protein amino acid sequence to optimal codons. Without being bound by theory’, this modification codon optimization is performed as follow: amino acid sequence is reverse translated into an DNA sequence using a modified mammalian codon usage table. The table increases both the CIA and the GC content of the mRNA. The reverse translated sequence (or mRNA sequence) is modeled into mFold and Delta H/Delta G computed, and the sequence with the lowest free energy is selected. In some cases, the codons can be replaced in specific locations to relax the tridimentional structure of the optimized mRNA. The sequence is then cloned between the 5'UTR and 3'UTR above. See Leppek et al. Nature Communications 13: 1536 (2022).
[0183] The exemplary constructs provided herein, see e.g., Table 4, include various combinations of these envelope modifications. Any modification or combination of the modifications described herein, including but not limited, to different versions of soluble proteins, different versions of membrane expressed proteins, stabilization mutations, furin cleavage site mutations, signal peptides, and/or cytoplasmic tail modifications can be applied to any full-length envelopes sequence. For example, one or more of the modifications described herein can be applied to envelope CAM13RRK, CAM13RRRK, HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_Y375S_D167N. CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_PCT64UCA_OPT, CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_R171K.
CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK, CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK_D167N, Q23.17_(natural_wildtype), Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT GLY,
Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT ALT, Q23. 17 V2UC AOPT GLY ALT,
Q23. 17_V2UCAOPT_GLY_ALT_R170Q, CH505 V2UCAOPT2 N332, CH505_V2UCAOPT_v3.0.
[0184] In some embodiments, envelope CAM13RRK, CAM13RRRK, HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_Y375S_D167N. CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT,
Figure imgf000076_0001
CAP256_wk34.80 V2UCA OPT RRK, CAP256_wk34.80 V2UC A OPT RRK D 167N, Q23.17_(natural_wildtype), Q23.17 V2UCAOPT, Q23.17 V2UCAOPT GLY, Q23. 17 V2UCAOPT ALT, Q23. 17 V2UC AOPT GLY ALT,
Q23. 17_V2UCAOPT_GLY_ALT_R170Q, CH505 V2UCAOPT2 N332, CH505_V2UCAOPT_v3.0 comprises one or more of modifications Y712I, Sodroski substitutions. F14 substitutions, SOSIP substitutions, SOS substitutions, DS substitutions, PP substitutions. 3mut substitutions, 2G substitutions, RnS substitutions. Signal Peptide #1, Glysine-Serine linker #1, RRRRRR, SIVMacCT, GS, T316W, I535M, deltaG, LL855/6AA, IGHVss, BPrlss, PC substitutions, or H66A.
[0185] The invention is described in the following non-limiting examples.
Table 5 shows exemplary embodiments of non-limiting immunogens.
Figure imgf000077_0001
Figure imgf000078_0001
Figure imgf000079_0001
Figure imgf000080_0001
Figure imgf000081_0001
Figure imgf000082_0001
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0186] Saunders et al. have reported that vaccination with stabilized CH505 SOSIP trimers elicits VlV2-glycan bnAbs. See Cell Rep. 2017 Dec 26; 21(13): 3681-3690, incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Example 2:
[0187] CH505-BG505 Chimeric SOSIP Redesign for V2 UCA Constructs & for V5 glycan mutants
[0188] Chimeric v4 6R SOSIP constructs have BG505 gp41 and end at HXB2 664. Thus, the SOSIP constructs have sub-optimal amino acids at some of our mature and UCA signature sites in gp41.
[0189] Since the region encompassed by the SOSIP constructs ends at 664, the UCA OPT1 SOSIP and OPT2 SOSIP constructs are the same. Same for UCA OPT1 N332 and UCA OPT2 N332 SOSIPs. So, skip testing the OPT2 SOSIP constructs.
[0190] Instead, we suggest testing two other constructs: with and without gp41 optimized mutations in the backbones of UCA OPT1 and UCA OPT1 N332 - these are UCA OPT1 gp41mut and UCA OPT1 N332 gp41mut.
[0191] The gp41mut constructs introduce favorable amino acids at 3 sites: 588 and 644 (signature sites for mature V2 apex bNAbs) and 535 (PG9 germline reverted signature).
[0192] List of SOSIP constructs for testing:
[0193] CH505TF_V2.SET.OPT_ch.SOSIPv4.1
[0194] CH505TF_V2.SET.OPT.N332_ch.SOSIPv4.1
[0195] CH505TF_V2.UCA.OPTl_ch.SOSIPv4. 1
[0196] CH505TF V2.UCA.OPT1.N332 ch.SOSIP.v4.1
[0197] But we propose testing the following two instead of the UCA OPT2 constructs (since they are same as UCA OPT1 for the SOSIP constructs):
[0198] CH505TF_V2.UCA.OPTl.gp41mut_ch.SOSIP.v4.1
[0199] CH505TF_V2.UCA.OPTl.N332.gp41mut_ch.SOSIP.v4. 1
[0200] The gp41mut constructs have 3 mutations in gp41: R->K at position 588; G->R at position 644; M->I at position 535. [0201] Additional optimized sequences are shown in Figure 4C, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, and 18F, and characterization in Figures 6A and 6B and 8-12, 15, and 18. Additional SOSIPs sequences are shown in Figure 13, 14, 17 , 21 and 22.
Example 3 Animal Studies
[0202] In non-limiting embodiment these immunogens can be used as either single primes and boosts in humanized mice or bnAb UCA or intermediate antibody VH + VL knockin mice, non-human primates (NHPs) or humans, or used in combinations in animal models or in humans.
[0203] Immunogens to initiate V1V2, and/or CD4 binding site and/or Fusion Peptide unmutated common ancestor (UCA) broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAbs) precursors. [0204] Non-limiting examples of immunizations are listed:
1 . Prime X 3 with either A, B, C, D, G or H (listed in Figures 3, 12F, 13, 14, 16, 17, or 18F, Table 1). In other embodiments, these immunogens could be in any suitable envelope form.
2. Take the optimal prime for bnAbs and after priming, boost with A, B, C, D, G or H.
3. Take the optimal prime for bnAbs, and after priming boost with a mixture of A, B, C, D, G or H.
4. Prime X3 with the mixture of A, B, C, D, G and H and the boost with one of A, B, C D, D or H to focus the response on bnAb epitopes.
5. Prime as in steps #1-4 above and then boost with the CH505 Transmitted/Founder (TF) gp!40 SOSIP trimer that has induced autologous neutralizing antibodies against the CH505 tier 2 TF virus.
6. Prime as in steps #1-4 above and then boost with the forms of the MT 145 SIV Env (see e.g. Andrabi et al.. 2019, Cell Reports27, 2426-244) or similar SIV envelope that has a V 1V2 loop -glycan bnAb epitope that binds to VI V2-glycan UCAs and bnAbs.
7. Prime as in steps #1-4 above and then boost with CM244, ZM233, WITO HIV-1 envelope or other WT Envs that have binding affinity for V1V2 bnAbs and their UCAs.
[0205] In non-limiting embodiments, these are administered as recombinant protein. Any suitable adjuvant could be use. In non-limiting embodiments, these are administered as nucleic acids, DNA and/or mRNAs. In non-limiting embodiments, the mRNAs are modified mRNAs administered as LNPs.
[0206] In non-limiting embodiments, the immunogens provide optimal prime for V1V2, and/or CD4 binding site, and/or Fusion Peptide precursors. In some embodiments, an optimal prime is determined by measurement of the frequency of bnAb precursors before immunization and after each immunization to determine if the immunization has expanded the desired bnAb B cell precursor pool. This can be performed by initial B cell repertoire analysis by single cell sorting of memory or germinal center B cells (e.g. Bonsignori et al. Sci Transl Med. 2017 Mar 15; 9(381): eaai7514.) and then followed by next generation sequencing of either lymph node, blood or other immune organ B cells to determine if the primed B cell bnAb clones were expanded and therefore boosted.
Example 4
[0207] This example shows information and sequences of a second design round. This second round of designs resulted in gains in sensitivity to the CAP256 and PG9/PG16 UCAs. [0208] Several signatures had been found for PG9 with only the heavy and/or light chain reverted. However, no PG9 UCA reactivity was identified. Thus, it was hypothesized that the single chain revered PG9 is not a good mimic of the PG9 UCA.
[0209] It was observed that 4 out of 177 viruses were neutralized for fully reverted PG9gHgL. Signatures were detected using the following criteria: (i) contact sites; (ii) p less than 0.05; and (iii) at least two sensitive viruses have the signature. Using these criteria, one signature was identified — Arginine 170 (i.e., Argl70 or R170). Figure 7A. Argl70 is a polar contact with Tyrl 11. Lysl70, however, is not a contact, as it is 4.2A away. PG9 UCA possesses Trpl 11 , raising the question of whether this residue participates in cation-pi interactions with Argl70.
[0210] Mutations of K169 to arginine (K169R) resulted in enhanced PG16 RUA sensitivity of about 10-fold and double mutations at K169 and K.170 (K169R and K170R) resulted in roughly a 50-fold sensitivity enhancement. There was a similar, though less pronounced improvement in PG9 with these mutations. Based on these results and signatures the following mutations were investigated: CH505 UCA OPT + Q170R and CH505 UCA OPT + Q170R + K169R. Results are depicted in Figure 7B.
[0211] Previous designs relied on weak outside epitope signatures for CAP256 1A4 (breadth= 3 of 202 viruses). The threshold signature was relaxed to A-1 1 sensitive for CAP256 IA4 & UCA. Structurally A-161 is at the base of 160 glycan, so it may impact glycan dynamics or processing. Experimental testing showed M161A did not gain CAP256 UCA sensitivity. Fig. 7C.
[0212] CH505 UCA OPT2 + N332 is weakly neutralized by PCT64 LMCA (IC50 = 105ug/ml). Previous designs were most favorable for all PCT64 intermediate signatures except at 130. D-130 associated with sensitivity. H-130 was used as it was the only CH04 UCA sensitivity signature, and was not a significant signature for PCT64 intermediates. CH505 UCA OPT + H130D was tested to determine the PCT64 LMCA signature. Fig. 7D. [0213] Q170R improved sensitivity to PG16RUA and CHOI RUA. Fig. 7E. H130D improved sensitivity to PCT64 LMCA and reduced sensitivity to CHOI RUA. Fig. 7F. H130D + K169R + Q170R improved sensitivity to PG9 and PG16 RUAs. Fig. 7G. This was a surprising 100-fold improvement for PG16 RUA compared to the Q170R mutation.
[0214] The H130D + K169R + Q170R mutation displayed slight improvement over UCA OPT2 for CHOI UCA, but was slightly reduced compared to the Q170R mutation. H130D + K169R + Q170R sensitivity was slightly reduced for PCT64 LMCA compared to UCA OPT2. H130D sensitivity for PCT64 LMCA was also reduced, but neutralization was observed at 50% at about lOOpg/ml.
[0215] In summary, the redesign of UCA OPT showed partial success. H130D improved sensitivity to PCT64 UCAs. Q170R and K169R improved PG9 and PG16 UCA sensitivity. Triple mutants can be potentially neutralized by CHOI and PG16 UCAs and may provide weak neutralization of PG9 and PCT64 UCAs. Leading candidates were tested for sensitivity and were found to be reactive to three out of five linage UCAs tested. Fig. 7H. This includes leading candidate CH505.V2UCAOPT.v2 + H130D + K169R + Q170R (CH505.V2UCAOPT.v3). The initial round of signature based optimization of CH505 led to improved sensitivity to all V2 apex mature and gain of reactivity to UCAs of two lineages. This second round produced improvements by gaining reactivity to one more lineage’s UCA. [0216] Further development may include improving sensitivity to the three reactive lineage UCAs, developing SOSIP and/or mRNA expression and their associated immunization abilities, testing as SHIVs for accelerated V2 apex bNAb development, and co-optimizing for simultaneous targeting of CH235 and V2 apex UCAs.
[0217] Any one of these immunogens could be tested in any suitable animal study to determine immunogenicity of the envelopes. Example 5
[0218] This example shows information and sequences of a third design round. The design was directed towards a cocktail of pan V2 apex bNAb germline targeting envelopes.
[0219] Env signatures were used to design Envs that are sensitive to V2 apex bNAb UCA. The natural Envs CH505.TF, CAP256-SU, CAM13, T250 and Q23 were used as starting templates and improved upon. Figure 8 A shows the leading constructs that together as a cocktail are sensitive to all V2 apex UCAs. No single natural or optimized Env is sensitive to each V2 UCAs, so we want to use a cocktail of Envs for multiple V2 apex bNAb germline targeting. Other constructs are still being improved and tested. Fig. 8B.
(CH505_UCA_OPT2_N332_H130D_K169R_K170R is also referred to as
CH505_V2UCA_OPT_v3.0.)
[0220] Background: V2 apex bNAbs are an attractive target for immunogen design. Fig. 9A. V2 apex bNAbs arise frequently in HIV-1 infected humans (12-15%) and in SHIV infected RMs (11%). Low levels of somatic hypermutation are required (Wiehe et al Cell Host Microbe 23(6):759 (2018)). Low levels of poly- and autoreactivity are also preferred (Liu et al J Virol 89:784 (2015)). Long anionic CDRH3s (>24aa) encoded by germline. Precursors are rare, so germline targeting immunogens are critical. No natural Envs that can target multiple V2 apex bNAb lineages, therefore requiring immunogen design.
[0221] CH505 Envs can induce V2 apex (b)NAbs. CH505 TF can trigger germline a V2 apex UCA carry ing B-cell line (CHOI UCA Ramos cells). One rhesus macaque (out of 4) immunized with CH505 Envs (gpl40) developed tier-2 heterologous NAbs directed at the V2 apex. (Saunders et al Cell Rep 2017 21(13) 3681-90). RM5695 infected with SHIV CH505 based quasispecies post vaccination developed V2 apex bNAbs. (Roark et al. Science 2020 371(6525):eabd2638). Fig. 9B. Therefore, it is desired to design CH505 TF immunogens with improved antigenicity7 to mature and UCAs of V2 apex bNAbs.
[0222] Initial Design: A schematic of the signature based approach of immunogen design used is depicted in Fig. 9C. See also Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72. Signatures are amino acids or glycan motifs statistically associated with one group of viruses vs others. Previously, sequence patterns associated with sensitivity to mature V2 bNAbs had been identified (Bricault et al. Cell Host Microbe 2019 25(1) 59-72). Fig. 1. These displayed phylogenetic and/or contact sites, robustness across bNAbs and datasets, and were used for designing CH505 SET OPT. Fig. 9D. Three classes of sites were considered for mutation to increase sensitivity7: wildty pe resistant (replace with sensitive amino acid or non-significant); wildtype non-significant (replace with sensitive amino acid if available); and wildtype sensitive, but multiple sensitivity signatures at site (replace with more sensitive amino acid if available). Fig. 9P. Additional design considerations included (i) frequency of mutant (M- group & clade C); (ii) number of V2 bNAbs include the signature; and (iii) strength of each signature. For example, NxST 130 may be mutated to H-13. NxST 130 displays strong resistance signature for several bNAbs. H is robust across V2 bNAbs and datasets (vs D) and is not infrequent. On the other hand. T-297 may be retained as there is no sensitivity signature or alternatives identified and T is the most common form. 11 mutations total were present in the final, initial design. Fig. 9Q. 8 resistant or non-significant with sensitive signatures were replaced. Additional mutations were one sensitive to more sensitive (R169K), one neutral to neutral (E170Q, remove -ve charge), one resistance signature for completing glycan shield (NxST332; no impact on sensitivity).
[0223] Neutralization data for 208 global viruses against CH04 & CAP256 UCAs, and heavy and/or light chain germline reverted PG9 was generated. (Gorman et al. NSMB 23 81-90 (2016)) Fig. 9E. Unlike other bNAb classes. V2 apex precursors can neutralize heterologous strains. CH04 UCA shows 4% breadth. PG9 with both heavy and light chain reverted provides 2% breadth. CAP256 UCA only neutralizes 1 autologous virus. Partial germline reverted PG9 (heavy or light) display a higher breadth. These data were used to calculate signatures.
[0224] Robust signature sites met at least 2 criteria: (a) contact site; (b) phylogenetically corrected signature; and/or (c) strong association (q < 0.1 ). Figs. 2, 7D. Few signatures for CH04 UCA, and PCT64 early bNAbs were identified. Several signatures for PG9 either heavy or light chain reverted were identified, due to their relatively higher breadth. UCA OPT 1 (CH505 TF UCA OPT1) includes mature V2 apex signatures, with 5 additional for UCAs. Fig. 9R.
[0225] For CAP256 IA4, weak signatures were found due to low statistical power (3 out of 208 viruses neutralized). Only resistant signatures outside the epitope were identified.
Change to neutral residues at most sites would involve mutation to rare amino acid and/or removing glycans that could introduce vulnerable gaps in the glycan shield. Only two mutations were introduced at positions 736 and 842. Designed UCA optimized constructs without (UCA OPT1) and with (UCA OPT2) these weak signatures. Fig. 9F.
[0226] Hypervariable loops cannot be aligned due to extreme length and sequence variation. Rather, tests are performed to identify associations with net charge, length and number of glycans. Two significant hypervariable loop associations with sensitivity to V2 apex bNAbs were identified: (a) positively charged V2 loops (V2 apex bNAbs have long anionic CDRH3); and (b) smaller hypervariable V 1 & V2 combined (possible steric hindrance due to the dynamic loops). Fig. 9G-9I.
[0227] Mature signature introduction displays an increased sensitivity' to neutralization by mature V2 bNAbs. Germline signatures displayed further increased sensitivity to neturalization by mature V2 bNAbs. Fig. 9J-9N. UCA signatures increased the sensitivity of CH505 to neutralization by both CHOI and the PCT64 V2 bNAb UCAs. Fig. 9K. V2 SET OPT also gains CHOI UCA sensitivity, likely due to H-130. UCA OPT2 that had CAP256 VRC26 UCA signatures also did not confer sensitivity' to this UCA. Because UCA OPT 2 displays low infectivity, it could not be tested.
[0228] Introduction of V2 apex mature signatures in CH505 TF improved sensitivity’ to mature bNAbs, and gained sensitivity to CHOI UCA. Introduction of UCA signatures further improved sensitivity to mature bNAbs, to CHOI UCA and gained sensitivity to PCT64 LMCA. Figs. 9N, 9S.
[0229] SET OPT & UCA OPT constructs were expressed as chimeric CH505-BG505 SOSIPs (Saunders). Different constructs tested with varying quality & expression. The best was UCA OPT1 with NxST 332 and gp41 mutations. Binding data was consistent with neutralization results. Fig. 90.
[0230] Longitudinal Env evolution shows escape predominantly at sites 166. 167, 168 and 1 9 (Landais et al. Immunity' 2017). Fig. 10A. Therefore, TF amino acids at these sites may be associated with sensitivity' to PCT64 UCA. All constructs so far have possessed R-166, K- 168 and R-169. However, they all have D-167, which is associated with escape from early PCT64 lineage Abs. Therefore, it may be beneficial to introduce mutation D167N.
[0231] D167N was shown to be sensitive for PCT64 LMCA. D167N is associated with escape from early (13 month) PCT64 lineage Abs. Fig. 10B. Intriguingly, later PCT64 Abs (month 18 onwards) become more reliant on N-167. Month 18 Ab is agnostic and Month 24 Ab onwards become more sensitive with D167N. M4C054 is an autologous Env from 4 months that is sensitive to PCT64-LMCA with glycan deletions at 130 and 133. Fig. 10C. This Env has N-167. M18C043 is not neutralized by PCT64-LMCA even with 130 and/or 133 glycan deletion. This Env has D-167. CH505.V2UCAOPT.v3.D167N design and neutralization testing is depicted in Fig. 10D. [0232] CAM13RRK V2 UCA Optimization: K130H for improving CHOI UCA sensitivity and swapping the very long hypervariable VI and negative V2
[0233] CAMB is natural SIVcpz Env (Nerrienet et al. J Virol. 2005 Jan; 79(2): 1312-1319. doi: 10.1128/JVI.79.2. 1312-1319.2005). It has been shown that CAM13 mutated to R-169, R-170 and K-171 (called ‘CAM13RRK') becomes sensitive to CHOI, PG9 and PG16 UCAs. Fig. 11 A.
[0234] CAM13RRK has poor reactivity with CHOI UCA. Several experiments have shown that H-130 is the strongest signature for CHOI UCA sensitivity. So the K130H mutation was introduced. For PCT64, position 315 could be improved. However, M-315 in CAM13RRK is very uncommon in HIV, so it was not possible to determine its impact. The 315 signature is only for month 24. Therefore, no change was recommended. CAM13RRK has uncommon HIV amino acids for several outside epitope signatures for PG9 heavy /light reverted. In the epitope, T161M and Y173H can be considered. However, since there is good reactivity with PG9/PG16 UCAs, no change is needed. The signatures for CAM13RRK are shown in Fig. 11B.
[0235] CAM13RRK has very long hypervariable V 1 loop. Design construct CAM13RRK delVl changes the hypervariable VI loop length from 31 to 23 amino acids. Fig. 11C. The natural loops were modified to introduce deletions and positive charges. Fig. 1 ID. No gain was identified in hypervariable VI changes, but gains of +3 net charge (-1 for wildtype to +2 for the construct) was identified. Substantial change in hypervariable VI length was provided from 31 amino acids for the wildtype region to 12-16 for constructs.
[0236] CAM13RRK has 5 glycan holes: N130 + hyp V2 hole (this should be retained as filling it may reduce V2 apex UCA reactivity); N295 + N332 hole (interestingly, this is filled by N442 in one RM (T927)); N386 hole (filled by 2 RMs T927 and T925); and N234 and N616 holes (filling them wall likely not impact V2 UCA sensitivity and does not create bNAb sensitivity). Fig. HE. Natural best hypervariable region has N442 and N386 holes filled. Opt has N234 and N616 filled on top of these two.
[0237] Constructs for testing:
[0238] CAM13RRK + K130H + Natural Vlh V2h swap + natural gly. Expected to have improved CHOI UCA reactivity. Hyp VI & V2 loops from best SCIV infected RMs. Based on glycan shielding from RMs, added N442 and N386. [0239] CAM13RRK + K130H + Opt Vlh V2h swap + opt gly. Expected to have further improved VI & V2 hyp loops based on best loops from CAM13K/RRK infected RMs. May improve reactivity. Better gly can shielding as N234 and N616 are added.
[0240] Neutralization testing was performed. Fig. 1 IF. Given that both K130H mutation and VI hypervariable loop deletion improve sensitivity7, a variant that includes both these changes was designed (CAM13RRK_K130H_delVl). Testing is ongoing.
[0241] CAP256SU based designed Envs
[0242] Strategy: CAP256SU is quite sensitive to V2 apex mature bNAbs (IC50 = 0.0004 - 2.2 pg/ml for CAP256 bNAbs, CHOI, PG9, PGDM1400 & PGT145). It is also neutralized by CAP256 UCA (IC50 ~35pg/ml). Thus, a variant that is optimized to carry7 sensitivity signatures for PG9 germline reverted Abs. CH04 UCA. and PCT64 intermediate Abs was designed.
[0243] As before, signatures were calculated for binary phenotypes and sites of interest were found to have at least 2 of the 3: (a) contact site, (b) phylogenetic signature, and/or (c) strong q-value < 0.1. For month 35 Abs (35B, 35D, 35G. 350 and 35S; no 35M since on a different branch), only signature sites of interest were 130 and 166. Fig. 12A. These were the same for Month 18 Ab, 18D. 166 already carries sensitive R. H130 was chosen because it is the only signature for CH04 UCA. H-130 is slightly sensitive for month 18, 24 and 35 Abs (odd’s ratio = 2.6-3.5, p = 0.19-0.25 for simple Fisher’s). For Month 24 (24F; no 24E since on a different branch), additional sites found are 164, 165 and 315 (all contact sites). Each has the sensitive aa in WT.
[0244] Several other signatures were identified. Fig. 12B.
[0245] Use M-84: Two sensitive signatures M-174 (odds ratio (OR)=2.8-3.4, p = 0.007- 0.017) and 1-174 (OR=2.2-2.3, p=0.015-0.028). Choose M because higher OR and more frequent in C (36.02% vs 35.66% for I), even though it is less frequent in M-group (15.3% vs 44.5% for I).
[0246] Use H-130: H130 is the only sensitive signature for CH04UCA (OR = 40-42, p = 3.1E-6 - 8.3E-5. It is rare (6.1% in M. 4.6% in C), similar to D. which is favorable for PG9 germline Abs. D is modestly sensitive for PG9 germline Abs (OR = 3.4-4.5, p = 0.019- 0.024).
[0247] Use M-161: M is most favorable (OR =2.8-3.4, p=0.0007- 0.02). It is at 8.8% in C and 18.9% in M-group. A is borderline sensitive signature for PG9 germline (OR = 3.3, p = 0.03). It has higher frequency in subtype C (21.8% vs 8.8% for M-161). Since M is not that rare and is stronger signature, use M
[0248] Retain D-167: No sensitive signature. Since D is most common in M-group and is in wildtype, we retain it.
[0249] Use Q-170: Q is the only sensitive signature (OR=2.1, p = 0.017). Fairly frequent in C and M-group (35% and 47%, respectively). Experimentally validated for CAMB vs PG16 UCA.
[0250] Use V-172: V is the only sensitive signature (OR = 3.2-4.2, p = 5.5E-6 - 0.004). Fairly frequent (35% in M, 33% in C) Also beneficial to remove the negative E.
[0251] Use N-173: N is the strongest sensitive association (OR = 13 - inf, p = 0.0005-0.06). It is rare (2.8% in M. 3.7% in C), but the only other sensitive signature S is also rare (3.8%, 5.6%) (OR=4.1, p = 0.065). H is more frequent (16.6% in M, 13.1% in C), but only borderline sensitive signature (OR = 2.2-3. 1, p = 0.08-0.09). Choose N-173 since it is the strongest signature, and while it is rare, it is still found in 51 of 1377 subtype C Envs.
[0252] Retain A-174: Only sensitive signature is S (OR=2.4-2.6, p = 0.02-0.08). However it is very rare in subtype C (1.8%). in spite of 10.5% in M. A is only weakly resistant (OR = 0.37-0.39, p = 0.011-0.057). So, change from A is not warranted. The proposed sequence 172-174 VNA though rare is found multiple times (1.9% in C, 26 out of 1377 and 1.1% in M- group, 49 out of 4399).
[0253] Use A-200: A is the only sensitive signature (OR = 2.8-3. p = 0.0005-0.0096). It is moderately frequent (25% in M, 34% in C). Site 200 is a contact site (<8.5A from V2 apex bNAbs).
[0254] Retain E-269: No sensitive signature, so no need to mutate.
[0255] Use S-336: S is the only sensitive signature (OR=3.5-5.8, p = 0.0005-0.0098). It is at 13.9% in C, and less frequent in M-group (8.2%).
[0256] Use N-636: N is the strongest sensitive signature (OR=2.2-16.4, p = 0.0002-0.076). Other sensitive signature is S (OR=1.9, p = 0.035). N is somewhat common in C (31.3%), slightly rarer in M-group (18%). S is more frequent (53.7% in C, 40.9% in M-group), but it is not chosen since it is a weaker signature than N.
[0257] Use R-732: Only sensitive signature is R (OR=5.4-8.9, p = 1.33E-8 - 0.0084). It is moderately common (35% in M, 61% in C).
[0258] For mature V2 apex bNAbs, positively charged V2 and V2 hypervariable, and shorter V1+V2 hypervariable loops are preferred. For UCA/germline Abs, positively charged V2 and V1+V2 loops are preferred. (V3 charge association is likely due to charged aa signatures in V3, which are accounted for later). Thus, preferred short and positively charged VI and V2 hypervariable loops were identified. These variants include - SET OPT, UCA OPT 1 and UCA OPT 2 - which will use the same hypervariable loops. The 208 global virus panel based on most charge per unit hypervariable VI or hypervariable V2 length were sorted, and ZM233.6 and T250-4 were found to be the most preferred, respectively. Fig. 12C.
[0259] ZM233.6 hyp VI loop and T250?s hyp V2 loop were used. The M-group distributions of VI, V2 and V1+V2 length and charge with CAP256SU WT are shown in Fig. 12D (each in blue, medians in red and constructs in purple).
[0260] Final design includes 10 mutations. Fig. 12E. H-130 accounts for both CH04 UCA and PCT64 intermediate signatures, and the rest are for PG9 germline reverted Abs. Hyp VI was used from ZM233.6 and hyp V2 was used from T250. The last mutation, G732R, is not in the SHIV construct.
[0261] When CAP256 UCA OPT was tested, it lost neutralization by CAP256_UCA and gained neutralization only by CHOI UCA (IC50 = 1.92pg/ml). To see if neutralization could be regained by CAP256_UCA, all of the changes, except H-130 and hypervanable V 1 and V2, were reverted. This is CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_2.0. Fig. 12F.
[0262] CAP256SU constructs were tested without glycan shield filling. (T250 and CH505 TF were glycan shield optimized). Fig 12H. Background from SHIV CAP256SU RMs: N339 was predicted to fill the TF glycan hole never comes up in SHIV CAP256SU RMs; N396 partially fills TF glycan hole and arises in all 3 RMs before breadth detected. Sporadic gain in RM43037 without breadth; N411-> N413 shift also in 3 RMs with breadth and not in RM43037 without breadth. This does not impact glycan shield, as we calculate it, but it could improve glycosylation efficiency of the 408 and 413 glycans, or could impact breadth development by some unknown reasons. Based on these data fully glycan shielded CAP256SU UCA OPT 2.0 construct with the following glycans added (N396 + N413 + N339) was tested. K169R and K170R were also added. With glycans added and K169R is CAP256SU UCA OPT 3.0 and with K170R added to this is CAP256_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R. Fig. 12F.
[0263] Neutralize of VR26UCA or VRC26.25, CHOI or CHOI RUA, PG9 or PG9999 RUA, PG16 or PG16 RUA, PCT64 LMCA or PCT64, or Rh-IA or RhA-1 neutralization by CAP256SU_V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R_UCA or CAP256SU V2UCAOPTv3.0K170R maturebNAb was determined. Fig. 12G. [0264] Any one of these immunogens could be tested in any suitable animal study to determine immunogenicity of the envelopes.
Example 6
[0265] This example shows information and sequences of a CAP256_wk34.80 V2 UCA Optimization. In this Example 6 and Figure 15, CAP256SU OPT 4.0 is the same as CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_3.0_K170R in Figures 8-12 and Figure 13.
[0266] Previously, 3 design mutations have been successful: N130H; R-169 + R-170; and Hyp VI & V2 loop swaps. It was desired to introduce N130H as it is needed for CHOI UCA reactivity, does not impact CAP256 UCA reactivity and could improve PCT64UCA reactivity . CAP256wk34.80 has 168-KKRR-171 motif. K169R reduces CAP256UCA reactivity by 3-4 fold (CAP256UCAOPT v2 vs v3). So this motif could be used. A predicted structure is depicted in figure. 15 A.
[0267] Hypervariable V 1 loop may be improved in charge by +2 units and in length by 2 amino acids (although one more VI glycan will be added and 130 glycan will be removed). Fig. 15B. Hypervariable V2 loop may be improved in charge by +4 units and in length by 3 amino acids. Further the one V2 loop glycan can be removed to avoid potential steric hindrance. Fig. 15C.
[0268] For CAP256wk34.80, 2 missing glycans (295 and 339) create glycan holes. Fig. 15D. For CAP256SU, glycans were introduced at positions 339, 396 (already present in wk34.80) and 413. 396 and 413 holes are based on longitudinal SHIV CAP256 evolution. Adding these glycans did not impact CAP256 UCA neutralization. Thus, N413 was also added to the CAP256wk34.80 constructs.
[0269] PCT64UCA escape mutations were investigated. Fig, 15E. N167D was chosen because there are clear signs of escape and structural rationale. Structurally, R-169 and K-169 make sense for investigation. Escape mutations are typically uncharged or negative.
However, K-169 is sampled rarely and is not a dominant escape. Fig. 10A. For positions 170 and 171, no or very little escape has been seen in PCT64. Structurally no close interactions appear between these residues and PCT64UCA.
[0270] PCT64UCA could prefer a negative V2 loop. Typically it has been observed that that positive and shorter V2 loops are preferred by V2 apex bNAbs, but for PCT64 UCA predicted structure a positively charged region (light chain) interacts with the hypervariable V2 loop. Fig. 15F. Therefore, designs were optimized for negatively charged loops, using the PCT64 early Env diversity.
[0271] Very little variation in PCT64 Envs was observed up to month 7. Fig. 15G. The PCT64OPT construct has both a shorter loop that still preserves the interaction between the ends of V2 loop of PCT64 Envs with PCT64UCA. Predicted electrostatic energy is improved by 60kJ/mol when this V2 loop used. Also, previously it was identified found that PCT64 mol8-35 Abs are negatively impacted by V2 length and number of glycans.
[0272] The designed V2 loop removes that. A summary of the designs is depicted in Fig.
15H. Neutralization testing experimental data for V2 apex UCA neutralization is depicted in Fig. 151.
[0273] Two additional designs are proposed. Fig. 15J. CAP256SU UCA OPT 4.0 performs the best, and has K-171, while CAP256wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT has R-171. It is hypothesized that the R171K mutation will improve V2 UCA reactivity’ of CAP256wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT. CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 has the best presentation of V2 UCA sensitive features. However, it has D-167, and it has been shown that PCT64 UCA requires N-167. It is therefore proposed that D167N mutation will improve the chance of CAP256SU UCA OPT 4.0 to be sensitive to PCT64 UCA.
[0274] Any one of these immunogens and/or any combination thereof could be tested in any suitable animal study to determine immunogenicity of the envelopes.
Example 7
[0275] This example shows information and sequences of development of improved constructs and mRNAs.
[0276] Using cleavage site predictions and SignalP
(https://services. healthtech. dtu.dk/service.php?SignalP-6.0), it was found that the motif 168KRRK171 could introduce an aberrant cleavage site into CAM13RRK. To alleviate this, the mutation K168R is predicted to reduce aberrant cleavage site creation, while not significantly impacting V2 apex bNAb sensitivity7. Based on this CAM13RRK + K168R (CAM13RRRK) was constructed and tested. Fig. 18A.
[0277] Since CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 is based on the SHIV CAP256SU, it has SIVmac239 cytoplasmic tail and Y-375. The reversion Y375S to HIV-1 Ser-375 was tested as CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S and CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0_375S_D167N. Given the advantage of K-171 in other constructs, the R171K mutation was introduced in CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT construct. This CAP256wk34.80_V2_UCA_OPT_R171K construct improved reactivity to several UCAs. Fig. 18B.
[0278] The best CAP256SU construct, CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0, was based on SHIV.CAP256SU (i.e. SIVmac239 cytoplasmic tail). Since HIV-1 constructs will be favorable vaccines, all CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 design mutations were introduced in the backbone of HIV-1 CAP256SU. Testing as a pseudovirus showed that neutralization profile was comparable if not slightly better than the SHIV -based construct. Fig. 18C.
[0279] CAP256SU UCAOPT 4.0 is the best CAP256SU based construct. However, this Env has been difficult to stabilize as SOSIP trimers. CAP256wk34.80 is closely related Env to CAP256SU that can make well-folded SOSIPs (Gorman et al. Cell Rep 31(1): 107448 2020). Therefore the K169R was transformed to CAP256 wk34.80 V2UCA OPT R171K construct to match all the mutations introduced in CAP256SU_UCA_OPT4.0, and tested this CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK Env. Fig. 18D. Based on the bending of neutralization curve for PCT64 UCA, CAP256_wk34.80_V2UCA_OPT_RRK_ D167N will also be tested, which has been shown to be a necessary requirement for PCT64 UCA reactivity.
[0280] Strategy 1 for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 mRNA designs. Fig. 18E. Four mRNA constructs that introduce stabilization mutations gradually: mRNAl : Joe2 mRNA2: Joe2 + F14
[0281] *SOSIP = A501 C + T605C + I559P
[0282] # Kwong_muts added are 3mut + 2G + RnS (Fig. 18E)
[0283] I535N may also be included. Added the RnS mutations because CAP256SU and CAP256wk34.80 are quite similar to each other.
[0284] All mRNA constructs have the signal peptide & cytoplasmic tail from CH848 mRNA constructs. From PDB 6VTT (Gorman et al.) it appears to be the bolded following: MTVTGTWRNYQQWWIWGILGFWMLMICNGLWV (SEQ ID NO: X) Alignment of sequences for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; mRNAl_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0; and mRNA2_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 is depicted in Fig. 18 F. Dots indicate deletions and dashes indicate identities.
[0285] Strategy7 2 for CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_4.0 mRNA designs. Using stabilization and expression strategies from Mu et al. Cell Rep 38(11): 110514 (2022), gp!50 and gp!60 mRNA constructs were designed for HIV_CAP256SU_UCA_OPT_v4.0. These sequences are denoted HV1303230 to HV1303254. Fig. 17.
[0286] Any one of these immunogens and/or any combination thereof could be tested in any suitable animal study to determine immunogenicity of the envelopes.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3. Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21.
2. The recombinant HIV-1 envelope of claim 1, wherein the polypeptide is a non-naturally occurring protomer designed to form an envelope trimer.
3. A nucleic acid encoding the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide of claim 1.
4. A recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of an envelope from Table 2. Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21.
5. An immunogenic composition comprising the recombinant trimer of claim 4 and a carrier.
6. An immunogenic composition comprising the nucleic acid of claim 3 and a carrier.
7. The immunogenic composition of claim 5 or 6 further comprising an adjuvant.
8. The nucleic acid of claim 3 or the immunogenic composition of claim 6 wherein the nucleic acid is operably linked to a promoter, and optionally wherein the nucleic acid is inserted in an expression vector.
9. A method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering a composition comprising any suitable form of a nucleic acid(s) of claim 3 or the polypeptide of claim 1 in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
10. The method of claim 9 wherein the nucleic acid encodes a gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gpl45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, a transmembrane bound envelope, a gpl60 envelope or an envelope designed to multimerize.
11. The method of claim 9 wherein the polypeptide is gpl20 envelope, gpl20D8 envelope, a gpl40 envelope (gpl40C, gpl40CF, gpl40CFI) as soluble or stabilized protomer of a SOSIP trimer, a gp!45 envelope, a gpl50 envelope, a transmembrane bound envelope, or an envelope designed to multimerize.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the composition further comprises an adjuvant.
13. The method of claim 9, further comprising administering an agent which modulates host immune tolerance.
14. The method of claim 1 1, wherein the polypeptide administered is multimerized in a liposome or nanoparticle.
15. The method of claim 10, wherein the nucleic acid administered is a mRNA.
16. The method of claim 10 or 15, wherein the nucleic acid is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle.
17. The method of claim 9, further comprising administering one or more additional HIV-1 immunogens to induce a T cell response.
18. A composition comprising a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises any one of the envelopes of claim 1.
19. The composition of claim 18, wherein the nanoparticle is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
20. A composition comprising a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises any one of the trimers of claims 2 or 4.
21. The composition of claim 20, wherein the nanoparticle is ferritin self-assembling nanoparticle.
22. The composition of claim 20, wherein the nanoparticle comprises multimers of trimers.
23. The composition of claim 20, wherein the nanoparticle comprises 1-8 trimers.
24. A composition comprising a nanoparticle and a carrier, wherein the nanoparticle comprises any one of the nucleic acids of claim 3.
25. The composition of claim 24, wherein the nucleic acid is a mRNA.
26. The composition of claims 24 or 25, wherein the nanoparticle is a lipid nanoparticle.
27. A method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising any one of the recombinant envelopes of the preceding claims or compositions of the preceding claims.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the composition is administered as a prime.
29. The method of claim 27, wherein the composition is administered as a boost.
30. A nucleic acid encoding any of the recombinant envelopes of the preceding claims.
31. A composition comprising the nucleic acid of claim 30 and a carrier.
32. A method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering an immunogenic composition comprising the nucleic acid of claim 30 or the composition of claim 31.
33. The nucleic acid of claim 3 or the immunogenic composition of claim 6, wherein the nucleic acid is a mRNA.
34. The nucleic acid of claim 33, wherein the mRNA is encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle.
35. An immunogenic composition or composition of any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises at least two different HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acids encoding a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, or a combination thereof.
36. An immunogenic composition comprising a first immunogen and a second immunogen, wherein the first immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20, or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21 or a nucleic acid encoding said recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide, and wherein the second immunogen is a different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide from Table 2, Figure 4C, Figure 12F, Figure 13, Figure 20 or Table 3, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 16, Figure 17, or Figure 18F, Table 4, or Table 5, Figure 22 or encoded by a nucleic acid according to Figure 19, 20 or 21or a nucleic acid encoding said different recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
37. The immunogenic composition of claim 36, wherein at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
38. The immunogenic composition of claim 37, wherein at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
39. The immunogenic composition of claim 37 or 38, wherein the first immunogen and the second immunogen are a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
40. The immunogenic composition of claim 36, wherein at least one of the first immunogen and the second immunogen is a nucleic acid.
41. The immunogenic composition of claim 40, wherein the first immunogen and the second immunogen are a nucleic acid.
42. The immunogenic composition of claim 40 or 41, wherein the nucleic acid is an mRNA.
43. The immunogenic composition of claim 42. wherein the mRNA is encapsulated in an LNP.
44. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 35 to 43, further comprising one or more additional immunogens, wherein the one or more additional immunogens is different to the first and second immunogens.
45. An immunogenic composition comprising HIV-1 envelopes HIV CAP256SU OPT4.0, CAP256wk34.80_V2UCAOPT_R171K, CAM13RRRK, and Q23.17.
46. The immunogenic composition of claim 45, wherein the HIV-1 envelopes are in the form of a recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptides or nucleic acid, or a combination thereof.
47. The immunogenic composition of claim 46, wherein one or more of the HIV-1 envelopes is a recombinant trimer comprising three identical protomers of the recombinant HIV-1 envelope polypeptide.
48. The immunogenic composition of claim 46, wherein the nucleic acid is an mRNA.
49. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 35 to 48, wherein the composition comprises a carrier.
50. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 35 to 49, wherein the composition further comprises an adjuvant.
51. A method of inducing an immune response in a subject comprising administering the immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 35-50 in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response.
52. The method of claim 51. further comprising administering an agent w hich modulates host immune tolerance.
PCT/US2024/024154 2023-04-11 2024-04-11 Compositions comprising v2 opt hiv envelopes WO2024215947A1 (en)

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007047916A2 (en) * 2005-10-17 2007-04-26 Novartis Ag Multiclade hiv vaccines
WO2016037154A1 (en) * 2014-09-04 2016-03-10 The United States Of America, As Represented By The Secretary, Department Of Health & Human Services Recombinant hiv-1 envelope proteins and their use
WO2017151801A1 (en) * 2016-03-01 2017-09-08 Duke University Compositions comprising hiv envelopes to induce ch235 lineage antibodies
WO2018218225A1 (en) * 2017-05-25 2018-11-29 Duke University Compositions comprising modified hiv envelopes
WO2021081437A2 (en) * 2019-10-23 2021-04-29 Duke University Compositions comprising v2 opt hiv envelopes

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007047916A2 (en) * 2005-10-17 2007-04-26 Novartis Ag Multiclade hiv vaccines
WO2016037154A1 (en) * 2014-09-04 2016-03-10 The United States Of America, As Represented By The Secretary, Department Of Health & Human Services Recombinant hiv-1 envelope proteins and their use
WO2017151801A1 (en) * 2016-03-01 2017-09-08 Duke University Compositions comprising hiv envelopes to induce ch235 lineage antibodies
WO2018218225A1 (en) * 2017-05-25 2018-11-29 Duke University Compositions comprising modified hiv envelopes
WO2021081437A2 (en) * 2019-10-23 2021-04-29 Duke University Compositions comprising v2 opt hiv envelopes

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