Alphavirus vectors

Alphavirus-based expression systems have been developed for Semliki Forest virus (SFV) [7], Sindbis virus (SIN) [8], and Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEE) [9]. The basic alphavirus expression system comprises an expression vector and helper vector as illustrated for SFV in Figure 2. The expression vector carries the four SFV non-structural protein 1–4 (nsP1–4) genes, the subgenomic 26S promoter generally driving the expression of the SFV structural genes but has been replaced by the GoI. In vitro transcribed RNA from linearized SFV DNA plasmids can be directly used for transfection of host cells and recombinant protein expression. For the generation of replication-deficient viral particles, a helper vector carrying the SFV structural genes expressing the capsid (C), a precursor of E2 and E3 envelope (Env) proteins (p62), the small 6K protein, and the E1 Env protein is used for in vitro transcription and electroporation/transfection of baby hamster kidney (BHK-21) cells [7]. The produced recombinant SFV particles can efficiently infect mammalian and non-mammalian cells, primary cells in culture (primary neurons, rat hippocampal slices), and animals in in vivo studies. However, due to the presence of the packaging signal only in the RNA of the expression vector, no new SFV particles will be generated. If replication-proficient viral particles are preferred, which is often the case for oncolytic viruses (described below), SFV vectors with a second subgenomic 26S promoter followed by the GoI can be introduced into the full-length RNA genome either downstream of the non-structural or structural protein genes. The replication-proficient SFV vector can also be used for RNA delivery. Alternatively, the replacement of the SP6 RNA polymerase promoter by a cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter enables the use of the SFV expression vector directly as a plasmid DNA-based transfection system of mammalian cells [10]. Delivery of both RNA- and DNA-based alphavirus vectors can be improved by encapsulation in nanoparticles and especially RNA degradation can be reduced by the encapsulation procedure [11]. Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations have generally been based on ionizable lipids, phospholipids, cholesterol, and polyethylene glycol coated (PEGylated) lipids providing a particle size of 120–160 nm in diameter [12]. In more detail, LNPs contain the ionizable cationic lipid 1,2-dilinoleyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DLinDMA), the cationic lipid 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), 1,2-diastearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC) and 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[methoxy(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (ammonium salt, PEG-DMG 2000) [13].

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Figure 2. 

Schematic presentation of alphavirus expression systems. Replication-deficient alphavirus particles are generated from expression vector and helper vector DNA, which are in vitro transcribed and co-transfected/electroporated into mammalian cells for production of recombinant particles. Replication-proficient alphavirus particles are generated from the full-length alphavirus genome containing a second 26S subgenomic promoter and the GoI. In vitro transcribed RNA is transfected/electroporated into host cells for virus production. DNA replicon vector can be transfected into host cells for expression of the GoI. No virus progeny is produced. SP6: SP6 RNA polymerase promoter; 26S: alphavirus 26S subgenomic promoter

Flavivirus vectors

Flaviviruses such as Kunjin virus (KUN) [14], West Nile virus (WNV) [15], yellow fever virus (YFV) [16], dengue virus (DENV) [17], and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) [18] have been used for the engineering of expression systems. Moreover, expression vectors for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) [19] and classic swine fever virus (CSFV) have been constructed [20]. Typically, KUN expression vectors have been engineered to carry the GoI between the first 60 nucleotides of the C20 KUN core protein and the last 22 codons of the KUN E22 Env protein [14] (Figure 3). Because the GoI is part of a larger polyprotein, the introduction of the 18 amino acids long foot-and-mouth disease virus protease sequence allows the removal of the KUN flanking sequences from the GoI product [21]. To facilitate the production of KUN particles, packaging cell lines have been engineered [22].

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Figure 3. 

Schematic presentation of flavivirus expression systems. The GoI is introduced between C20 and E22 in frame with the downstream viral polyprotein. In the RNA-based system, the SP6 RNA polymerase promoter is used. For use of the DNA-based system, the SP6 promoter is replaced by a CMV promoter. 5’ UTR: 5’ untranslated region; C20: first 20 amino acids of KUN C protein; E22: last 22 amino acids of KUN E protein; U: mouse ubiquitin sequence; F: foot-and-mouth disease virus 2A autoprotease; HDVr: hepatitis delta virus ribozyme

MVs vectors

In contrast to the positive-strand self-replicating RNA viruses, the negative-strand RNA viruses including paramyxoviruses such as MVs have required the engineering of packaging systems and helper cell lines [23]. In the context of MVs expression vector systems, the GoI is introduced either between the phosphoprotein (P) and the matrix (M) protein or between the hemagglutinin (HA) and the large (L) protein (Figure 4). For MVs, different rescue methods have been developed, such as engineering of stable human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cell lines expressing the MV-nucleoprotein (N), MV-P and T7 polymerase for co-transfection with a plasmid expressing the full-length MV genome, the GoI and the T7 polymerase driven MV-L expression [24, 25]. In another strategy, the MV-N, MV-P and MV genomes are expressed from DNA plasmids in HEK293 cells superinfected with a replication-deficient vaccinia virus [VV; modified VV Ankara (MVA)] providing the T7 polymerase [26]. An MV rescue technology has also been established for CMV-driven DNA plasmids expressing the MV genome and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) complex [27].

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Figure 4. 

Schematic presentation of MV expression systems. The GoI is introduced either between the P and the M protein or between the HA and the L protein. T7: T7 RNA polymerase promoter; T7T: T7 terminator

Rhabdovirus vectors

In the context of negative-strand rhabdoviruses, expression vectors have been constructed for vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) [28] and rabies virus (RABV) [29]. Reverse genetics based on a recombinant VV has been applied for VSV [30] and RABV [31] engineering. Additionally, a VV-free system has been developed, where the VSV N, P and L genes are driven by a T7 polymerase promoter and an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) [32].

Typically, both pseudotyped and recombinant VSV particles have been engineered [28, 33]. Generally, pseudotyped VSV particles are generated by replacing the VSV glycoprotein (G) with another Env protein and VSV pseudovirus particles can selectively infect host cells but generate no virus progeny (Figure 5A) [28]. However, fully infectious VSV particles can be generated in mammalian producer cell lines [33]. An alternative strategy comprises the insertion of the GoI between the M and G genes and/or the G and L genes in the VSV genome (Figure 5B). VSV particles have also demonstrated oncolytic activity, preferentially replicating in and killing tumor cells without causing damage to normal cells. Similarly, the Mariba virus has been engineered as an oncolytic vector for cancer therapy [34]. In the context of RABV vectors, the GoI is inserted between the N and P genes or between the G and L genes [35, 36] (Figure 5C).

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Figure 5. 

Schematic presentation of rhabdovirus expression systems. A. VSV pseudovirus system, where the VSV G protein is replaced by the GoI; B. recombinant VSV expression system, where the GoI can be inserted between the M and G proteins, or between the G and L proteins; C. RABV system, where the GoI is introduced between the N and P proteins, or the G and L proteins

Recombinant particles for infectious diseases

Clearly, the most common approach has been the utilization of recombinant viral particles in different forms. In this context, replication-deficient vectors have been frequently used. For example, a chimeric VSV vector was engineered by replacing the VSV G protein with the CHIKV-Env and the ZIKV ME glycoproteins [42]. A single administration of 1 × 10⁷ chimeric VSV particles induced neutralizing Ab responses to both CHIKV and ZIKV and protected wild-type and interferon (IFN) receptor-deficient A129 mice against both CHIKV and ZIKV challenges. In another approach, the removal of the furin cleavage site (FCS) between the E2 and E3 Env proteins in VEE, WEE and EEE generated infectious but replication-deficient viral particles [43]. Co-immunization of mice with VEE, WEE, and EEE or with individual particles elicited robust immune responses and protected mice from subcutaneous or aerosol challenges with any of the three alphaviruses. Likewise, cynomolgus macaques showed complete protection against challenges with VEE and EEV, but only partial protection against WEE was established. Related to MVs, expression of CHIKV C and Env proteins from an MV vector elicited strong immune responses and protected macaques from viremia [44].

In the context of LHF, immunization of guinea pigs and macaques with VSV particles expressing the LASV GPC resulted in protection against challenges with LASV strains from Liberia, Mali, and Nigeria [45]. Likewise, a single immunization of macaques with 1 × 10⁶ plaque forming units (pfu) of recombinant MV-LASV-GPC particles provided protection [46]. Additionally, YFV vectors expressing the LASV-GPC showed protection in 80% of immunized guinea pigs [47], but immunization of marmosets failed to prevent LASV infections [48]. Among alphaviruses, VEE particles expressing LASV-GPC or N protected guinea pigs from challenges with the LASV Josiah strain [49]. Similarly, the VEE-LASV-GPC protected inbred CBA/J mice from challenges with the LASV LP and Josiah strains [50]. In the case of EBOV, VEE particles expressing EBOV-G protected guinea pigs from EBOV challenges [49]. Furthermore, KUN-based expression of the EBOV-G D637L mutant, showing superior cleavability and shedding compared to wildtype G, provided protection in 75% of immunized nonhuman primates [51]. VSV-based EBOV vaccine candidates have been promising as shown by the immunization of macaques with 5 × 10⁷ VSV-EBOV-G particles, resulting in protection against challenges with EBOV-Makona [52] and ZEBOV [53] strains. VEE particles expressing the ectodomain (ECD) of the DENV Env prevented DENV infection in immunized mice [54]. Partial protection was achieved in mice immunized with MV particles expressing the ED3 [55]. In the context of ZIKV, it was mentioned above that immunization of mice with chimeric VSV particles expressing the precursor membrane-Env of ZIKV (ZIKV-prME) elicited strong immune responses and provided protection against challenges with ZIKV [42]. Moreover, mice immunized with MV particles expressing the ZIKV Env gene were protected against challenges with the nonlethal ZIKV Asian strain PRVABC59 and the lethal African strain MR766 [56]. However, viral clearance from the brain and reproductive tract did not take place. Co-administration of MV-E2 and MV-NIS resulted in complete viral clearance of ZIKV from the female reproductive tract and fetal protection [56].

Vaccine development against HIV/AIDS has been of significant interest and self-replicating RNA viruses are no exception. MV vectors expressing HIV-1 Gag-like particles induced robust cellular and humoral immune responses in mice [57]. Alphaviruses have been frequently used for HIV vaccine development. For instance, immunization of mice with SFV-HIV Env particles resulted in higher Ab titers compared to immunization with conventional plasmid DNA or recombinant Env protein [58]. Furthermore, SFV particles expressing the Indian HIV-1C Env-Gag-Pol-RT genes induced robust T-cell responses, which were superior in comparison to SFV RNA replicon immunization [59].

The seasonal IFV outbreaks have increased the interest in utilizing self-replicating RNA viruses for vaccine development. For example, the recombinant MV AIK-C vaccine candidate carries the IFVA HA gene from the influenza A/Sapporo/10⁷/2013 (H1N1pdm) strain [60]. Immunization of cotton rats with the MV AIK-C IFVA-HA induced robust immune responses and protected rats against challenges with IFVA. Furthermore, the VSV G protein was replaced by the IFVA HA protein from the highly pathogenic avian IFV (HPAIV) A/Vietnam/1203/04 (VN1203) strain and the NA protein of the mouse-adapted H1N1 IFVA/Puerto Rico/8/34 (PR8) in the VSVΔG vector for immunization studies in mice [61]. A single immunization with VSVΔG-H5N1 protected mice from challenges with pathogenic H5N1 strains. Moreover, VSV particles expressing the HAfl were subjected to either a single dose or prime-boost regimens in mice [62]. A single dose of VSV-HAfl was fast-acting, showing 100% protection when administered three days prior to IFVA challenges. It also induced cross-protective H5-specific Ab responses and protection was achieved against challenges with various H5 clade 2 strains. In another approach, a single dose of 1 × 10⁷ pfu of VEE-HA particles provided protection in chickens challenged with the IFVA isolate A/HK/156/97 [63]. Moreover, SIN particles expressing the external domain of the IFVA M2e in the SIN E2 Env protein were subjected to intranasal immunization of mice [64]. All mice vaccinated with SIN-E2S1-M2e particles survived challenges with a virulent IFVA strain, while control animals did not. In the case of CSFV, the IFVA N and HA genes were introduced into the CSFV RepRNA vector [65]. Pigs immunized with a mixture of CSFV-Rep-HA and CSFV-Rep-N particles were compared to CSFV RNA replicon-PEI complexes and naked RNA replicons. Strong HA- and N-specific humoral and cellular responses were detected after immunization with CSFV particles and RNA-PEI formulations. In contrast, naked CSFV RNA replicons elicited only modest immunogenicity. Overall, the strongest immunogenicity was achieved with CSFV particles.

Coronaviruses have gained special attention for vaccine development in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Although several viral vector-based vaccines have received emergency use authorization (EUA) and have been extensively reviewed elsewhere [66], the focus of this review will be solely on vaccine candidates based on self-replicating RNA viruses. Prior to the SARS-CoV-2, mice immunized with VEE particles expressing the SARS-CoV spike (S) protein gave protection against challenges with SARS-CoV [67]. In the case of the MERS, the VSVΔG-MERS-CoV S vector was engineered, where the VSV G gene was replaced by the MERS-COV S gene [68]. Intramuscular or intranasal immunizations of rhesus macaques induced neutralizing Ab and T-cell responses. In the context of COVID-19, MV-based expression of SARS-CoV-2 S induced strong Th1-biased Ab and T-cell responses in immunized mice [69]. Moreover, immunization of mice with VSV-SARS-CoV-2 S particles induced neutralizing Ab responses and provided protection against SARS-CoV-2-related pathogenesis [70]. Like MERS-CoV-2 S, the SARS-CoV-2 S gene was introduced into the VSVΔG vector for immunization of Syrian golden hamsters, which elicited potent neutralizing antibodies (Abs) and protected the animals against challenges with SARS-CoV-2 [71]. Recently, co-immunization of SIN particles expressing the SARS-CoV-2 S protein and the αOX40 in C57BL/6J mice elicited long-lasting neutralizing Abs and robust T-cell responses after prime-boost vaccination [72]. Furthermore, the treatment protected mice from SARS-CoV-2.

In addition to human coronaviruses, vaccine development has taken place for animal coronaviruses. Chimeric BVDV particles expressing the PEDV S protein were intramuscularly administered to BALB/c mice, resulting in BVDV- and PEDV-specific Ab responses and neutralization of both BVDV and PEDV [73].

Attenuated viruses for infectious diseases

In another approach, a live-attenuated CYD-TDV has been evaluated in cynomolgus macaques showing good safety with no toxicological concerns after repeated administration [74]. In another approach, the live-attenuated CHIKV-NoLS vaccine candidate was formulated for in vivo RNA delivery in cationic adjuvant formulation 01 (CAF01) liposomes [75]. Immunization of immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice with liposome-delivered CHIKV-NoLS RNA elicited reduced IgM and IgG levels with low CHIKV-neutralizing capacity compared to the original live-attenuated CHIKV-NoLS. The immunization provided local protection in the ipsilateral foot of mice, but not systemic protection against wild-type CHIKV after one injection. In another study, an attenuated hybrid VEE-RABV replicon vector was engineered by replacing all VEE structural proteins with RABV G [76]. Mice immunized with the hybrid vector elicited strong humoral immune responses and were protected against challenges with virulent RABV. Moreover, the VEE-RABV-G was highly attenuated and caused much weaker inflammatory and apoptotic effects in the brain, resulting in significantly lower weight loss and morbidity compared to standard live-attenuated RABV.

RNA replicons for infectious diseases

RNA-based vaccine approaches have been applied long before the current COVID-19 vaccines were developed [77]. The RNA amplification of self-replicating RNA viruses in the host cell cytoplasm has made RNA replicons attractive and potentially superior to synthetic mRNA as vaccine vehicles. Like synthetic mRNA, encapsulation of RNA replicons in LNPs or nanocarrier lipids (NLCs) has improved delivery and reduced RNA degradation. For example, immunization of mice with NLC formulations of VEE-based ZIKV-ME RNA replicons showed complete protection against ZIKV with only a single administration of 10 ng of RNA [78]. In another approach, naked SFV-HIV Env RNA replicons were intramuscularly injected into mice, which induced Env-specific immune responses in 80% of immunized animals [79]. The delivery and stability of VEE-HIV-1 gp140 RNA replicons were improved in mice by encapsulation in cationic nanoemulsion (CNE), which consisted of squalene, DOTAP and sorbitan trioleate [80]. Compared to VEE particles or MF59-adjuvanted HIV gp140 recombinant protein, intramuscular administration of 50 μg of VEE-HIV-1 gp140 RNA-CNE formulations induced stronger immune responses in rhesus macaques [81]. In another study, immunization with as little as 10 μg of naked SFV-HA RNA replicon resulted in protection in 90% of BALB/c mice [82]. Moreover, immunization with SFV-HA RNA replicons provided protection against RSV and TBEV in mice [82]. In another study, the VEE-HA RNA replicon [83] was compared to immunization of mice with synthetic mRNA [84], which confirmed that only 1.25 μg of RNA replicon was needed to establish protection against IFVA challenges compared to 80 μg of synthetic mRNA.

LNP-encapsulated VEE RNA replicons carrying the prefusion-stabilized SARS-CoV-2 S gene have been intramuscularly administered to BALB/c mice, showing strong dose-dependent SARS-CoV-2-specific Ab responses and neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 [12]. Moreover, BALB/c mice immunized with the VEE-based self-transcribing and replicating RNA (STARR)-based vaccine (LUNAR-COV19) expressing the full-length SARS-CoV-2 S protein generated robust neutralizing immune responses [85]. Protection against SARS-CoV-2 was achieved in humanized ACE2 transgenic mice.

Plasmid DNA replicons for infectious diseases

The application of self-replicating RNA viruses based on plasmid DNA has allowed direct use of DNA avoiding safety concerns related to viral vectors and degradation issues with RNA delivery. For example, immunization of BALB/c mice with plasmid DNA replicons of the attenuated VEE V4020 strain-induced strong neutralizing Ab responses and provided protection against wild-type VEE [86]. Furthermore, immunization with VEE V4020 DNA protected cynomolgus macaques from aerosol challenges with wild-type VEE [87]. In another study, BALB/c mice were immunized with SFV DNA replicons expressing the HIV Env and Gag-Pol-Nef fusion protein, which elicited robust immune responses [88]. A single low dose of 0.2 μg of SFV DNA replicons was sufficient for greatly enhanced immune responses when the prime immunization was followed by a heterologous boost with MVA particles expressing HIV Env and Gag-Pol-Nef fusion protein [88].

Clinical trials for infectious diseases

Self-replicating RNA viruses have also been subjected to clinical trials for infectious diseases (Table 2). For example, a randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-finding phase I trial to find the optimal dose of MV-LASV (V182-001) in 52 healthy volunteers is in progress (NCT04055454). Related to EVD, the VSV-EBOV-G vaccine candidate VSV-ZEBOV has been evaluated in 7,651 individuals with suspected EVD in a phase III trial showing good efficacy and protection [89]. Another phase III trial in 4,160 individuals confirmed the efficacy of the VSV-ZEBOV vaccine [90]. Both the US FDA and the EMA have approved VSV-ZEBOV [91]. The YFV-based tetravalent CYD-TDV has been subjected to several clinical trials, showing an overall pooled protective vaccine efficacy of 65.5% [92]. However, the vaccine was substantially more effective against severe DF. The CYD-TDV vaccine (Dengvaxia^®) has received regulatory approval in several countries [93]. The VEE-based HIV-1 Gag vaccine AVX101 has been subjected to two phase I double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled studies in healthy volunteers in the US and South Africa [94]. Due to vaccine instability issues, one trial was stopped. Unfortunately, the second trial had also to be prematurely discontinued due to manufacturing issues and lower immune responses seen in humans compared to findings from preclinical studies.

Among negative-strand self-replicating RNA viruses, the MV-SARS-CoV-2 S vaccine candidate TMV-083 showed disappointingly weak immune responses in a COVID-19 phase I trial in vaccinated volunteers, which led to the termination of the study (NCT04497298). Similarly, despite showing good safety and tolerability profiles, the VSV-SARS-CoV-2 S vaccine candidate V590 showed a weaker immune response than obtained from convalescent COVID-19 patients in a phase I trial, justifying the early discontinuation of the study (NCT04569786). In another approach, a phase I/II clinical study for the VSVΔG-SARS-CoV-2 S vaccine candidate is in progress (NCT04608305). Healthy volunteers will receive a single dose of 5 × 10⁵, 5 × 10⁶, or 5 × 10⁷ pfu of VSVΔG-SARS-CoV-2 (IIBR-100) for the evaluation of the safety, immunogenicity, and potential efficacy of the vaccine candidate. Moreover, a phase IIb/III for IIBR-100 has been registered for a study against an approved COVID-19 vaccine (NCT04990466).

In the context of RNA replicons, a phase I randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-finding phase I/II study for the SARS-CoV-2 S RNA-LNP vaccine candidate COVAC1 has been registered (ISRCTN17072692). So far, no results have been published.

Recombinant particles for cancers

In the context of brain tumors, SFV particles expressing endostatin showed superior tumor regression and a decrease in intratumoral vascularization in a B16 brain tumor mouse model compared to RV-based endostatin expression [100]. Moreover, dendritic cells (DCs) transduced with SFV-IL-18 particles combined with recombinant IL-12 induced Th1-biased immune responses and elicited anti-tumor immunity in a B16 brain tumor mouse model [101]. Selective infection and elimination of brain tumor cells were achieved with the chimeric VSVΔG-CHIKV vector, where the VSV G protein was replaced by the CHIKV E3-E2-6K-E1 polyprotein [102].

Moreover, VSVΔG-CHIKV demonstrated targeting of intracranial xenografts derived from melanoma patients, while normal cells showed no or low infection rates. Administration of VSVΔG-CHIKV prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing mice for over 100 days. Targeting brain cancers, especially with replication-proficient viral particles, have raised some concern related to the neurotropic nature of many viruses such as alphaviruses [103]. For this reason, neuron-specific micro-RNA miRT124 sequences were inserted into the genome of the replication-competent SFV4 virus [104]. This manipulation altered the viral tropism resulting in SFV4-miRT124 targeting CT-2A orthotopic gliomas, significant tumor growth inhibition and prolonged survival in intraperitoneally injected C57BL/6 mice. In the case of breast cancer, complete inhibition of lung metastases and long-term survival in 90% of animals were observed in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice immunized with SFV-IL-12 particles and the aroC Salmonella typhimurium strain LVR01 [105]. The combination therapy was superior compared to the administration of either SFV-IL-12 or LVR01 alone.

Self-replicating RNA viruses have also been applied for immunizations against HPVs. For example, immunization of MV-susceptible IFN alpha receptor (IFNAR)/CD46 transgenic mice with recombinant MV particles expressing the HPV-16 L1 C protein elicited strong humoral immune responses and neutralizing Abs against L1 [106]. Moreover, MV-HPV 16 L1 C particles have been compared to immunizations with recombinant HPV-16 L1 and HPV-18 L1 protein vaccines produced in Pichia pastoris yeast cells [107]. Immunization of non-human primates elicited strong immune responses for both virus- and protein-based vaccines. The CRPV E1, E2, E6 and E7 proteins have been expressed from VSV vectors for evaluation in rabbits [108]. Immunization of rabbits with VSV-CRPV-E1, E2, E6, and E7 significantly reduced papilloma volumes, with VSV-CRPV-E7 showing a superior reduction in papilloma volume of 96.9% and complete eradication of existing tumors. In another study, TC-1 tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice were intramuscularly immunized with VSV-HPV E7, which induced HPV-16 E7-specific T-cell responses and reduced tumor volumes 10-fold [109]. Additionally, VEE particles expressing the HPV-16 E7 protein elicited CD8⁺ T-cell responses and protected immunized C57BL/6 mice from tumor challenges [110]. Additionally, the HPV E6-E7 fusion protein was expressed from the SFVenh vector, providing enhanced transgene expression due to the presence of the translation enhancer signal from the SFV C gene [111]. Immunization of C57BL/6 mice with SFVenh-HPV E6-E7 particles generated complete eradication of established tumors.

Self-replicating RNA viruses have also been validated for colon cancer treatment. KUN particles expressing the GM-CSF were intratumorally administered to BALB/c mice with CT26 colon tumors, which elicited CD8⁺ T-cell responses, resulting in tumor regression and cure of 50% of immunized mice [112]. Moreover, immunization of BALB/c mice with SFV particles expressing the VEGFR-2 resulted in inhibition of tumor growth, reduction in tumor angiogenesis and prevention of the spread of metastases [113]. When SFV-IL-4 particles were co-administered with SFV-VEGFR-2 particles, the VEGFR-2-specific Ab responses were enhanced, and the survival of mice was prolonged [113]. In another study on colon cancer, mice with MC38cea colon adenocarcinomas were immunized with MV-GM-CSF particles, which delayed tumor progression and increased the survival time of mice [114]. Intratumoral administration resulted in complete remission in one-third of mice and tumor re-engraftment was rejected. In the context of lung cancer, SFV-EGFP particles efficiently killed human H358a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and inhibited the growth of H358a spheroids through SFV-based apoptotic action and induction of caspase activity [115]. Immunization of nu/nu mice with SFV-EGFP particles showed complete tumor regression in three out of seven nu/nu mice implanted with H358a lung tumors. In another study, complete tumor remission and long-term survival were observed in CT26. CL25 tumor-bearing mice immunized with SIN-LacZ particles [116]. Moreover, intratumoral administration of VSV particles expressing VSV-IFNβ resulted in tumor regression, prolonged survival, and cure in 30% of immunized mice with syngeneic LM2 lung tumors [117].

Several studies have involved melanoma, such as immunization of B16-OVA tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice with KUN-GM-CSF particles, which showed substantial tumor regression and cure of more than 50% of immunized animals [112]. Furthermore, immunization of mice with B16 melanoma tumors with VEE particles expressing the TRP-2 elicited humoral responses, demonstrated anti-tumor activity, and prolonged survival of immunized mice [118]. The combination of VEE-TRP-2 particles with the antagonist CTLA-4 mAb resulted in tumor regression in 50% of immunized mice, while complete tumor regression was seen in 90% of mice after co-administration of VEE-TRP-2 particles and the agonist anti-glucocorticoid-induced GITR mAb [119].

In the case of hematological cancers, SIN vectors expressing Luc have demonstrated good infection efficacy of malignant BW5147 mouse hematopoietic T-cells resulting in SIN-induced apoptosis [120]. Intraperitoneal administration of SIN particles targeted tumors and substantially prolonged survival in tumor-bearing CH3HXAKR mice. In another approach, combination therapy of SIN particles and the anti-4-1BB mAb showed complete tumor eradication in a BALB/c A20 B cell lymphoma model [121]. Moreover, a non-cytopathic SFV vector has been utilized for the overexpression of the idiotypic mouse follicular lymphoma-derived A20 mAb in BHK cells [122]. The purified A20 mAb was conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin for immunization of BALB/c mice, which induced antitumor responses and prolonged survival of immunized animals.

In the context of ovarian cancer, a tumor-targeting MV vector containing the single-chain Ab variable fragment (scFv) specific for the αFR has been engineered [123]. Intratumoral MV-αFR injection of mice implanted with ovarian SKOV3ip.1 tumors showed a reduction in tumor volume and improved overall survival. MV-CEA and MV-NIS particles have also been applied for immunization of mice carrying SKOV3ip.1 tumors [124]. Although immunization with MV-CEA or MV-NIS generated inhibition of tumor growth in mice, the effect was significantly better after co-administration of MV-CEA and MV-NIS. In another approach, severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice simultaneously immunized with SIN-IL-12 particles and treated with the CPT-11 topoisomerase inhibitor irinotecan showed substantial inhibition of growth of aggressive ES2 human ovarian tumors and long-term survival of mice [125]. A prime-boost regimen with SFV-OVA particles followed by immunization with VV-based OVA expression elicited OVA-specific CD8⁺ T-cell responses and accelerated anti-tumor activity in C57BL/6 mice implanted with murine ovarian surface epithelial carcinoma (MOSEC) [126].

Pancreatic cancer has been targeted by engineering an MV vector selectively unable to use the SLAM [127]. Immunization of SCID mice carrying KLM1 and Capan-2 pancreatic tumor xenografts with MV-SLAMBlind particles demonstrated significant suppression of tumor growth.

In the context of prostate cancer, intratumoral administration of MV-CEA particles in a prostate PC-3 mouse model resulted in a significant delay in tumor growth and prolonged survival of mice [128]. Furthermore, VEE particles expressing the PSMA induced robust PSMA-specific immune responses in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice [129]. In another study, VEE-based expression of the STEAP elicited CD8⁺ T-cell responses against a newly defined STEAP epitope and prolonged overall survival in prophylactic and therapeutic mouse models [130]. Likewise, VEE-based expression of the PSCA in transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice resulted in long-term survival in 90% of mice [131].

Oncolytic viruses for cancer

As many of the oncolytic viruses described for cancer therapy are attenuated strains, it makes sense to describe them in the same paragraph. Oncolytic MV vectors engineered to express GFP, CEA, and NIS demonstrated efficient replication and induction of cytotoxicity in GSCs [132]. Furthermore, MV-NIS administration to nude mice showed significantly prolonged survival. In another study, oncolytic replication-proficient SFV VA-EGFP particles were intravenously administered to BALB/c mice expressing firefly Luc in a subcutaneous orthotopic human glioma model [133]. A single administration of SFV VA-EGFP particles resulted in complete inhibition of intracranial firefly Luc expression and long-term survival in 16 out of 17 mice.

The oncolytic M1 alphavirus has been evaluated for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer [99]. The oncolytic activity of M1 in a TNBC mouse model was further enhanced by 100-fold by co-administration of doxorubicin. In another approach, MV-SLAMBlind particles showed strong oncolytic activity against human breast cancer xenografts in immunodeficient mice [134]. Moreover, subcutaneous administration of cynomolgus macaques with MV-SLAMBlind particles resulted in no measles-related clinical symptoms, indicating its safe use for breast cancer therapy [135]. In the case of lung cancer, superior survival was achieved after local immunization of nude mice carrying A549 lung adenocarcinoma with oncolytic SFV VA-EGFP particles in comparison to conditionally replicating Ad Ad5-Delta24TK-GFP particles [135]. However, systemic administration was unable to elicit significant immune responses with either vector system. Moreover, the oncolytic MV Hu-191 strain showed efficient suppression of tumor growth and prolongation of survival of immunized Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC)-bearing CH57BL/6 mice [136]. Additionally, uncontrolled growth of lung and colorectal adenocarcinomas was prevented in nude mice immunized with the live-attenuated oncolytic MV Schwarz strain [137]. In another study, the potent killing of lung cancer cell lines and tumor regression in nude mice was achieved after immunization with the oncolytic MV Edmonston strain expressing CEA [138]. In the case of melanoma, a live-attenuated YFV strain expressing the chicken OVA cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitope SIINFEKL induced CD8⁺ lymphocyte responses and protected immunized C57BL/6 mice from challenges with B16-OVA or B16F0 cells [139]. In another approach, the oncolytic MV L-16 strain showed the potential killing of tumor cells and prevented tumor growth in the mel Z mouse melanoma model [140]. Moreover, the pseudotyped VSV expressing the LCMV G generated tumor regression in subcutaneous A375 xenograft and B16-OVA syngeneic mouse tumor models and further regression of lung metastases after systemic administration [141]. The MV-LCMV-G vector also showed oncolytic activity in ovarian cancer cell lines and in vivo in the A2780 ovarian mouse tumor model [142]. Combination therapy with the JAK1/2 inhibitor Rux further increased tumor regression. Oncolytic VSVΔM51 particles have also been compared to Sendai virus and RSV in the highly aggressive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) [143]. Although the susceptibility of VSV varied among PDAC cells, its oncolytic activity was superior compared to the Sendai virus or RSV. Furthermore, the oncolytic VSV-ΔM51-GFP vector generated reduced tumor growth in mice implanted with PDAC xenografts, which was improved by co-administration of Gem [144].

Prostate cancer has been targeted by oncolytic self-replicating RNA viruses. For example, anti-tumor activity and prolonged survival in the PC-3 prostate cancer mouse model were seen by co-administration of oncolytic MV and MuV [145]. Co-administration of MV and MuV was superior compared to immunization with either MV or MuV alone. In another approach, the oncolytic VSV-ΔM51-GFP vector efficiently was replicated in DU145 and PC-3 prostate tumor cells and induced their death [146]. Immunization of nude mice with VSV-ΔM51-GFP resulted in selective eradication of malignant cells and prolonged the survival of animals. Moreover, the oncolytic VSV-LMCV-G vector efficiently infected and killed several prostate cancer cell lines [147]. In vivo, intratumoral and intravenous administration of VSV-LCMV-G generated long-term remission of subcutaneous tumors and bone metastases in DU145 and 22Rv1 prostate tumor mouse models.

RNA replicons for cancer

The classic example of RNA replicon immunization dates back to 1999 [148]. As little as 0.1 μg SFV-LacZ RNA elicited antigen-specific CD8⁺ T-cell responses and protected immunized mice against challenges with CT26 colon tumors. Therapeutic efficacy was also seen, where tumor regression and prolonged survival were obtained in mice with pre-existing tumors. In another study, BALB/c mice were intramuscularly immunized with naked KUN RNA replicons expressing the Mpt [149]. Immunization with 30 μg of KUN-Mpt RNA elicited CD8⁺ T-cell responses and provided protection against B16 melanoma cell challenges.

DNA replicons for cancer

The therapeutic effect of SIN DNA replicon-based expression of human gp100, a melanoma antigen, and mouse IL-18 has been evaluated in the B16-gp100 mouse model [150]. Immunization of mice resulted in both enhanced protective and therapeutic effects on brain tumors and significantly prolonged the survival of mice. In the context of breast cancer, Ad particles and SIN DNA replicons expressing the HER2/neu gene were subjected to immunization of BALB/c mice [151]. Both Ad-HER2/neu and SIN-HER2/neu DNA replicons inhibited the growth of A2L2 tumor growth in BALB/c mice, but only when the immunization took place before the tumor challenge. Moreover, the robust Ab responses and tumor protection seen for intradermal administration of SIN-HER2/neu DNA replicons in BALB/c mice could be achieved with 80% less replicon DNA than conventional plasmid DNA [152].

A prime-boost strategy of SIN-HER2/neu DNA replicon immunization followed by Ad-HER2/neu administration significantly extended the survival of immunized mice. In the context of HPV vaccines, mice were immunized with SFV DNA replicons expressing the HPV E6-E7 genes [153]. Combining intradermal SFV-HPV E6-E7 DNA replicon administration with electroporation resulted in the eradication of 85% of tumors. Moreover, it was demonstrated that only an SFV DNA replicon dose of 0.05 μg, equivalent to a 200-fold lower dose than conventional plasmid DNA, was sufficient for achieving therapeutic efficacy. In another study, mice implanted with B16 melanoma tumors were immunized with one SFV DNA replicon expressing VEGFR-2 and IL-12 and another expressing survivin and the β-hCG antigens [154]. Immunization of mice with either SFV DNA replicon inhibited tumor growth, but co-administration of both SFV DNA replicons showed superior tumor growth inhibition and prolonged survival of mice.

Clinical trials for cancers

In the context of clinical trials, several studies have been conducted with self-replicating RNA viruses (Table 4). For example, expression of the extracellular and TM domains of HER2 (HER ECD and TM) from VEE particles (VRP-HER2) was subjected to a phase I clinical trial in stage IV HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients [155]. The outcome was good tolerance, PR in one patient and SD in two other patients. Furthermore, a phase II study on VRP-HER2 combined with pembrolizumab was initiated in 39 HER2-positive breast cancer patients [156]. Related to cervical cancer, SFVEnh-HPV E6/E7 particles (Vvax001) were evaluated in 12 patients with a history of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia receiving three immunizations of 5 × 10⁵, 5 × 10⁶, 5 × 10⁷, or 2.5 × 10⁸ infectious particles in a phase I trial [156]. The immunization was safe and well-tolerated, eliciting HPV-specific immune responses in all 12 patients. VEE particles expressing CEA were administered four times every three weeks to patients with stage IV colorectal cancer [157]. The vaccination-induced antigen-specific effector T-cells and prolonged survival in patients. The study has been further expanded to include stage III colorectal cancer patients. In another trial, patients with taxol- and platinum-refractory recurrent ovarian cancer (RROC) were immunized with MV-CEA particles [158]. Intraperitoneal administration of MV-CEA was well-tolerated and resulted in dose-dependent biological activity in patients who had previously received heavy treatment. SD was observed in 14 out of 21 patients. In another approach, VEE-CEA particles were applied for repeated intramuscular administration to pancreatic cancer patients in a phase I trial [159]. The immunization elicited clinically relevant T-cell responses, which resulted in cellular toxicity against tumor cells and prolongation of the overall survival of patients. A phase I clinical trial has also been conducted in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) [160]. Patients were subjected to immunization with 0.9 × 10⁷ or 3.6 ×10⁷ international units (IU) of VEE-PSMA particles. The vaccination was safe and well-tolerated. However, the PSMA-specific immune responses were weak, which will require further optimization of dosing and vector delivery.