Stable Formulations of Neisseria meningitidis rLP2086 Antigens
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to formulations of Neisseria meningitidis
rLP2086 Subfamily B antigens in immunogenic compositions as described herein.
The present invention also relates to methods of preserving the conformation of
Neisseria meningitidis rLP2086 antigens and methods for determining the potency
of Neisseria meningitidis rLP2086 antigens.
Background of the Invention
[0002] rLP2086 is a recombinant 28-kDa lipoprotein that induces cross-reactive
bacterial antibodies against a number of Neisseria meningitidis strains. Based on
deduced amino acid sequence homology, two different subfamilies of rLP2086
were identified, A and B. These two subfamilies were used in the formulation of
the MnB-rLP2086 vaccine samples containing 20, 60,120, and 200 mg/mL each in
10 mM Histidine (pH 6.0), 150 mMNaCl, and 0.5 mg/mL aluminum with varying
levels of Polysorbate 80 (PS-80). Polysorbate 80, also known, as TWEEN 80, is a
nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol, and is frequently used in
pharmaceutical formulations as an emulsifier, solubilizer and stabilizer. The
presence of Polysorbate 80 in the MnB rLP2086 immunogenic composition is
believed to prevent aggregation during formulation, processing, filtration, filling
and shipping, reduce filter membrane absorption, and reduce tubing absorption.
Summary of the Invention
[0003] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a stable
immunogenic composition, wherein the potency of a LP2086 Subfamily B
polypeptide is maintained for at least about 1-12 months, about 6-18 months, about
12-24 months, about 24-36 months, or about 36-48 months. In some
embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a LP2086
Subfamily A polypeptide.
[0004] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
detergent. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of the detergent to protein is
between about 0.5:1 and about 10:1; between about 1:1 and about 5:1; or between
about 1.4: 1 and 4.2:1 . In some embodiments, the molar ratio of the detergent to
protein is about 2.8: 1. In some embodiments the amount of detergent is sufficient
to reduce polypeptide binding to silicon in a container, such as a syringe or a vial.
In some embodiments, the detergent is a non-ionic detergent, such as a polysorbate
detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is Polysorbate-80.
[0005] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
multivalent cation. In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or
aluminum. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition comprises
calcium phosphate. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition
comprises aluminum as aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum
sulfate, or alum. In some embodiments, the concentration of aluminum is between
about 0.1 mg/niL and 1.0 mg/niL. In some embodiments, the concentration of
aluminum is about 0.5 mg/niL.
[0006] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises
histidine. In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine is between about
2mM and about 20mM or between about 5mM and about 15mM. In some
embodiments, the concentration of histidine is about lOmM. In some
embodiments, the pH of the histidine is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or
between about 5.8 and about 6.0. In some embodiments, the concentration of
histidine is lOmM, pH 6.0.
[0007] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises
succinate. In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate is between about
2mM and about 1OmM or between about 3mM and about 7mM. In some
embodiments, the concentration of succinate is about 5mM. In some
embodiments, the pH of the succinate is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or
between about 5.8 and about 6.0. In some embodiments, the concentration of
succinate is 5mM, pH 6.0.
[0008] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition is lyophilized. In
some embodiments, the lyophilized composition is resuspended in a buffer
comprising aluminum. In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as
aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum sulfate, or alum.
[0009] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition comprises about a
2.8:1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04,
lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In some embodiments, the
immunogenic composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein,
0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In
some embodiments, the immunogenic composition consists essentially of
200ug/mL rLP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein,
0.5 mg/mL of aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0010] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition comprises about a
2.8:1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04,
5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In some embodiments, the
immunogenic composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein,
0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In
some embodiments, the immunogenic composition consists essentially of
200ug/mL rLP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein,
0.5 mg/mL of aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0011] In another aspect, the invention provides for a method of stabilizing the
potency of a LP2086 Subfamily B polypeptide in an immunogenic composition by
storing the LP2086 Subfamily B polypeptide in a buffer with a molar ratio of
detergent to protein between about 0.5:1 and 10:1; between about 1:1 and about
5:1; or between about 1.4:1 and about 4.2:1. In some embodiments, the molar ratio
of detergent to protein is about 2.8: 1. In some embodiments the amount of
detergent is sufficient to reduce polypeptide binding to silicon in a container, such
as a syringe or a vial. In some embodiments, the detergent is a non-ionic
detergent, such as a polysorbate detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is
Polysorbate-80.
[0012] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises a multivalent cation.
In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or aluminum. In some
embodiments, the buffer comprises calcium phosphate. In some embodiments, the
buffer comprises aluminum as aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide,
aluminum sulfate, or alum. In some embodiments, the concentration of aluminum
is between about 0.1 mg/niL and 1.0 mg/niL. In some embodiments, the
concentration of aluminum is about 0.5 mg/niL.
[0013] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises histidine. In some
embodiments, the concentration of histidine is between about 2mM and about
20mM or between about 5mM and about 15mM. In some embodiments, the
concentration of histidine is about lOmM. In some embodiments, the pH of the
histidine is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or between about 5.8 and about 6.0.
In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine is lOmM, pH 6.0.
[0014] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises succinate. In some
embodiments, the concentration of succinate is between about 2mM and about
1OmM or between about 3mM and about 7mM. In some embodiments, the
concentration of succinate is about 5mM. In some embodiments, the pH of the
succinate is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or between about 5.8 and about 6.0.
In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate is lOmM, pH 6.0.
[0015] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition is lyophilized. In
some embodiments, the lyophilized composition is resuspended in a buffer
comprising aluminum. In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as
aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum sulfate, or alum.
[0016] In some embodiments, the buffer consists essentially of about a 2.8: 1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM
histidine H 6.0, and 150 niM NaCl. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL
aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0017] In some embodiments, the buffer consists essentially of about a 2.8: 1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM
succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL
aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0018] In another aspect, the invention provides for a method of stabilizing the
potency of a LP2086 Subfamily A polypeptide and a LP2086 Subfamily B
polypeptide in an immunogenic composition by storing the LP2086 Subfamily A
polypeptide and the LP2086 Subfamily B polypeptide in a buffer with between
about 0.Img/mL and about lOmg/mL aluminum and a molar ratio of detergent to
protein between about 0.5:1 and 10:1. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of
detergent to protein is between about 1:1 and about 5:l; or between about 1.4:1 and
about 4.2: 1. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of detergent to protein is about
2.8: 1. In some embodiments the amount of detergent is sufficient to reduce
polypeptide binding to silicon in a container, such as a syringe or a vial. In some
embodiments, the detergent is a non-ionic detergent, such as a polysorbate
detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is Polysorbate-80.
[0019] In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as aluminum phosphate,
aluminum hydroxide, aluminum sulfate, or alum. In some embodiments, the
concentration of aluminum is about 0.5 mg/niL.
[0020] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises histidine. In some
embodiments, the concentration of histidine is between about 2mM and about
20mM or between about 5mM and about 15mM. In some embodiments, the
concentration of histidine is about lOmM. In some embodiments, the pH of the
histidine is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or between about 5.8 and about 6.0.
In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine is lOmM, pH 6.0.
[0021] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises succinate. In some
embodiments, the concentration of succinate is between about 2mM and about
1OmM or between about 3mM and about 7mM. In some embodiments, the
concentration of succinate is about 5mM. In some embodiments, the pH of the
succinate is between about 5.0 and about 8.0 or between about 5.8 and about 6.0.
In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate is lOmM, pH 6.0.
[0022] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition is lyophilized. In
some embodiments, the lyophilized composition is resuspended in a buffer
comprising aluminum. In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as
aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum sulfate, or alum.
[0023] In some embodiments, the buffer consists essentially of about a 2.8: 1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM
histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A
polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8:1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM
histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0024] In some embodiments, the buffer consists essentially of about a 2.8: 1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM
succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A
polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8:1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM
succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
[0025] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for determining the
potency of a rLP2086 Subfamily A polypeptide and/or a rLP2086 Subfamily B
polypeptide comprising the steps of: (a) binding a first and a second functional
monoclonal antibody recognizing conformational epitopes on each subfamily
protein to the immunogenic composition and (b) quantitating the antibody binding
to the polypeptides. In some embodiments, the quantitation is performed by
electrochemiluminescence. In some embodiments, polypeptides exhibiting
epitopes recognized by both antibodies are quantitated. In some embodiments, the
first antibody is conjugated to a label, such as biotin. In some embodiments, the
first antibody is isolated by a compound that binds the conjugated label, such as
streptavidin beads or a streptavidin column. In some embodiments, the second
antibody is bound by a quantitative label. In some embodiments, the potency of
the immunogenic composition is compared to the potency of a reference material.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0026] Figure 1: Stability of Subfamily B in Formulations with Various
Polysorbate 80 Concentrations.
[0027] Figure 2 : Accelerated Stability of Subfamily B with Various Polysorbate
80 Concentrations
[0028] Figure 3: Potency of Subfamily B at 200 mg/mL for 28 days
[0029] Figure 4 : Potency of Subfamily B at 20 mg/mL for 28 days
[0030] Figure 5 : Potency Results for 200 mg/mL with Different Molar Ratios
[0031] Figure 6 : Potency Results for 20 mg/mL with Different Molar Ratios
[0032] Figure 7 : Protein Binding to Aluminum Phosphate at pH 6.5
[0033] Figure 8: Binding of MnB rLP2086 Subfamily A and B as a Function of
pH.
[0034] Figure 9 : The Effect of pH, Buffer and Protein Concentration on Binding
of rLP2086 Subfamily A and B
[0035] Figure 10: Visual Appearance of rLP2086 Formulations without
Aluminum Phosphate
[0036] Figure 11: OD Measurements of Appearance Samples, 2-8°C.
[0037] Figure 12: Potency Results for Subfamily A for Formulation with and
without A1P04
[0038] Figure 13: Potency Results for Subfamily B for Formulation with and
without AIPO4
[0039] Figure 14: Polysorbate 80 Results in rLP2086 Placebo with 0.5 mg n L
Aluminum
[0040] Figure 15: Polysorbate 80 Results for Subfamily A
[0041] Figure 16: Polysorbate 80 Results for Subfamily B
[0042] Figure 17: Correlation of Potency and Bound Molar Ratio for Subfamily B
[0043] Figure 18: Molar Ratio Results for Subfamily A
[0044] Figure 19: Molar Ratio Results for Subfamily B
[0045] Figure 20: Molar Ratio Results for rLP2086 Formulations @ 400 mg/mL
[0046] Figure 1: Polysorbate 80 Results for rLP2086 Drug Product at Different
Time Points
[0047] Figure 22: Bound Molar Ratio Results for rLP2086 Drug Product at
Different Time Points
[0048] Figure 23: Potency and Bound Molar Ratio Results for Subfamily A
[0049] Figure 24: Potency and Bound Molar Ratio Results for Subfamily B
[0050] Figure 25: Binding of Subfamily A with AIPO4 in Succinate and Histidine
Buffers
[0051] Figure 26: Binding of Subfamily B with AIPO4 in Succinate and Histidine
Buffers
[0052] Figure 27: Comparison of Binding in Succinate, Histidine, and Phosphate
buffer
[0053] Figure 28: pH-Dependent Binding of Subfamily A with A1P04
[0054] Figure 29: pH-Dependent Binding of Subfamily B with AIPO4
Detailed Description of the Invention
[0055] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein
have the same meaning as those commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in
the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or
equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the
present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. The
materials, methods and examples are illustrative only, and are not intended to be
limiting. All publications, patents and other documents mentioned herein are
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0056] Throughout this specification, the word "comprise" or variations such as
"comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated
integer or groups of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of
integers.
Definitions
[0057] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural
references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, e.g., references to
"the method" includes one or more methods, and/or steps of the type described
herein and/or which will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon
reading this disclosure and so forth.
[0058] As used herein, the plural forms include singular references unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, e.g., references to "the methods" includes
one or more methods, and/or steps of the type described herein and/or which will
become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure and
so forth.
[0059] As used herein, "about" means within a statistically meaningful range of a
value such as a stated concentration range, time frame, molecular weight,
temperature or pH. Such a range can be within an order of magnitude, typically
within 20%, more typically still within 10%, and even more typically within 5% of
a given value or range. The allowable variation encompassed by the term "about"
will depend upon the particular system under study, and can be readily appreciated
by one of ordinary skill in the art. Whenever a range is recited within this
application, every whole number integer within the range is also contemplated as
an embodiment of the invention.
[0060] The term "adjuvant" refers to a compound or mixture that enhances the
immune response to an antigen as further described and exemplified herein.
Non-limiting examples of adjuvants that can be used in the vaccine of the present
invention include the RIBI adjuvant system (Ribi Inc., Hamilton, Mont.), alum,
mineral gels such as aluminum hydroxide gel, oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-oil
emulsions such as, e.g., Freund's complete and incomplete adjuvants, Block
copolymer (CytRx, Atlanta Ga.), QS-21 (Cambridge Biotech Inc., Cambridge
Mass.), SAF-M (Chiron, Emeryville Calif), AMPHIGEN® adjuvant, saponin,
Quil A or other saponin fraction, monophosphoryl lipid A, and Avridine
lipid-amine adjuvant.
[0061] The term "binding of aluminum to protein" refers to the percentage of
protein molecules in a composition that are bound to aluminum. The binding of
aluminum to protein can be determined using methods disclosed herein or known
in the art.
[0062] The term "effective immunogenic amount" as used herein refers to an
amount of a polypeptide or composition comprising a polypeptide which is
effective in eliciting an immune response in a vertebrate host. For example, an
effective immunogenic amount of a rLP2086 protein of this invention is an amount
that is effective in eliciting an immune response in a vertebrate host. The
particular "effective immunogenic dosage or amount" will depend upon the age,
weight and medical condition of the host, as well as on the method of
administration. Suitable doses are readily determined by persons skilled in the art.
[0063] The term "molar ratio" as used herein refers to the ratio of the number of
moles of two different elements in a composition. In some embodiments, the
molar ratio is the ratio of moles of detergent to moles of protein. In some
embodiments, the molar ratio is the ratio of moles of Polysorbate 80 to moles of
protein. Based on the protein and Polysorbate 80 concentrations, the Molar Ratio
is calculated using the following equation:
Molar Ratio = %PS80 x 16
mg/niL Protein
For example, a composition comprising 0.01% Polysorbate 80 and 00mg has a
detergent-to-protein molar ratio of 10.8: 1 [(0.01/0.2) x 216]. A ratio of 3 moles
Polysorbate 80 to 2 moles of protein would be expressed as a molar ratio of PS80
to protein of 3:2. Further, if a molar ratio is recited as a single number, it refers to
a ratio of that single number to 1. For example, Polysorbate 80-to-protein ratios of
0.5, 2, and 10 refer to ratios of 0.5:1, 2:1 and 10:1, respectively. As used herein,
the terms "detergent to protein" molar ratio and "Polysorbate 80 to protein" molar
ratio refer in general to the molar ratio of detergent (or Polysorbate 80) to protein
antigens, particularly P2086 antigens. Based on the teachings disclosed herein,
one of skill in the art would be able to determine how to calculate molar ratios for
other detergents and the optimal molar ratio for formulations with other detergents.
As used herein, a "low" molar ratio refers in general to a molar ratio of the
detergent to protein antigen in the immunogenic composition that is less than a
"high" molar ratio. A "high" molar ratio refers in general to a molar ratio of the
detergent to protein antigen in the immunogenic composition that is greater than a
"low" molar ratio. In some embodiments, a "high molar ratio" of detergent to
protein refers to a molar ratio greater than 10:1. In some embodiments, a "low
molar ratio" of detergent to protein refer to a molar ratio between 0.5: 1 and 10:1.
[0064] The term "ORF2086" as used herein refers to Open Reading Frame 2086
from a Neisseria species bacteria. Neisseria ORF2086, the proteins encoded
therefrom, fragments of those proteins, and immunogenic compositions comprising
those proteins are known in the art and are described, e.g., in U.S. Patent
Application Publication Nos. US 20060257413 and US 20090202593, each of
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The term "P2086"
generally refers to the protein encoded by ORF2086. The P2086 proteins of the
invention may be lipidated or non-lipidated. "LP2086" and "P2086" typically
refer to lipidated and non-lipidated forms of a 2086 protein, respectively. The
P2086 protein of the invention may be recombinant. "rLP2086" and "rP2086"
typically refer to lipidated and non-lipidated forms of a recombinant 2086 protein,
respectively.
[0065] The term "pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" as used herein is intended
to include any and all solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and
antifungal agents, isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like, compatible
with administration to humans or other vertebrate hosts. Typically, a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is a carrier approved by a regulatory agency of
a Federal, a state government, or other regulatory agency, or listed in the U.S.
Pharmacopeia or other generally recognized pharmacopeia for use in animals,
including humans as well as non-human mammals. The term "carrier" refers to a
diluent, adjuvant, excipient, or vehicle with which the pharmaceutical composition
is administered. Such pharmaceutical carriers can be sterile liquids, such as water
and oils, including those of petroleum, animal, vegetable or synthetic origin.
Water, saline solutions and aqueous dextrose and glycerol solutions can be
employed as liquid carriers, particularly for injectable solutions. Suitable
pharmaceutical excipients include starch, glucose, lactose, sucrose, gelatin, malt,
rice, flour, chalk, silica gel, sodium stearate, glycerol monostearate, talc, sodium
chloride, dried skim milk, glycerol, propylene, glycol, water, ethanol and the like.
The composition, if desired, can also contain minor amounts of wetting, bulking,
emulsifying agents, or pH buffering agents. These compositions can take the form
of solutions, suspensions, emulsion, sustained release formulations and the like.
Examples of suitable pharmaceutical carriers are described in "Remington's
Pharmaceutical Sciences" by E. W. Martin. The formulation should suit the mode
of administration. The appropriate carrier will be evident to those skilled in the art
and will depend in large part upon the route of administration.
[0066] The term "potency" refers to an antigen's ability to raise an immunogenic
response. In some embodiments, potency is measured by an epitopes ability to
bind to an antibody. Potency may be lost or reduced over time due to loss of
antigen or epitope integrity or a change in antigen or epitope conformation.
Potency may be lost or reduced due to factors including, but not limited to, light,
temperature, freeze/thaw cycles, agitation, and pH. Potency can be measured by
the methods disclosed herein and by assays known in the art. Such potency
determination assays include, but are not limited to, animal vaccination models,
serum bactericidal assays (SBA), flow cytometry, and in vitro potency assays. The
preferred methods for determining potency are SBA and in vitro potency assays.
A more preferred method for determining potency is SBA. In some embodiments,
potency can be determined using at least one monoclonal antibody directed against
at least one epitope that is involved in immune response. In some embodiments,
potency of a test sample is compared against potency of a reference standard. In
some embodiments, the reference standard is the test sample at To. In some
embodiments, the reference standard is an immunogenic composition without a
detergent. In some embodiments, the reference standard is an immunogenic
composition with a detergent-to-protein molar ratio higher than 10:1.
[0067] A "protective" immune response refers to the ability of an immunogenic
composition to elicit an immune response, either humoral or cell mediated, which
serves to protect the subject from an infection. The protection provided need not
be absolute, i.e., the infection need not be totally prevented or eradicated, if there is
a statistically significant improvement compared with a control population of
subjects, e.g. infected animals not administered the vaccine or immunogenic
composition. Protection may be limited to mitigating the severity or rapidity of
onset of symptoms of the infection. In general, a "protective immune response"
would include the induction of an increase in antibody levels specific for a
particular antigen in at least 50% of subjects, including some level of measurable
functional antibody responses to each antigen. In particular situations, a
"protective immune response" could include the induction of a two fold increase in
antibody levels or a four fold increase in antibody levels specific for a particular
antigen in at least 50% of subjects, including some level of measurable functional
antibody responses to each antigen. In certain embodiments, opsonising antibodies
correlate with a protective immune response. Thus, protective immune response
may be assayed by measuring the percent decrease in the bacterial count in an
opsonophagocytosis assay, for instance those described below. In some
embodiments, there is a decrease in bacterial count of at least 10%, 25%, 50%,
65%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or more, as compared to the bacterial count in
the absence of the immunogenic composition.
[0068] The terms "protein", "polypeptide" and "peptide" refer to a polymer of
amino acid residues and are not limited to a minimum length of the product. Thus,
peptides, oligopeptides, dimers, multimers, and the like, are included within the
definition. Both full-length proteins and fragments thereof are encompassed by the
definition. The terms also include modifications, such as deletions, additions and
substitutions (generally conservative in nature, but which may be
non-conservative), to a native sequence, preferably such that the protein maintains
the ability to elicit an immunological response within an animal to which the
protein is administered. Also included are post-expression modifications, e.g.
glycosylation, acetylation, lipidation, phosphorylation and the like.
[0069] The term "recombinant" as used herein refers to any protein, polypeptide,
or cell expressing a gene of interest that is produced by genetic engineering
methods. The term "recombinant" as used with respect to a protein or polypeptide,
means a polypeptide produced by expression of a recombinant polynucleotide.
The proteins of the present invention may be isolated from a natural source or
produced by genetic engineering methods. "Recombinant," as used herein, further
describes a nucleic acid molecule, which, by virtue of its origin or manipulation, is
not associated with all or a portion of the polynucleotide with which it is associated
in nature. The term "recombinant" as used with respect to a host cell means a host
cell which includes a recombinant polynucleotide.
[0070] The terms "stable" and "stability" refer the ability of an antigen to remain
immunogenic over a period of time. Stability may be measured in potency over
time. The terms "stable" and "stability" further refer to the physical, chemical, and
conformational stability of the immunogenic composition. Instability of a protein
composition may be caused by chemical degradation or aggregation of the protein
molecules to form higher order polymers, by dissociation of the heterodimers into
monomers, deglycosylation, modification of glycosylation, or any other structural
modification that reduces at least one biological activity of the protein composition
included in the present invention. Stability may be assessed by methods wellknown
in the art, including measurement of a sample's light scattering, apparent
attenuation of light (absorbance, or optical density), size (e.g. by size exclusion
chromatography), in vitro or in vivo biological activity and/or properties by
differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Other methods for assessing stability are
known in the art and can also be used according to the present invention.
[0071] In some embodiments, an antigen in a stable formulation of the invention
may maintain at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%,
98%, 99% or 100% potency, as compared to a reference standard, for at least 1
month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 9 months, 1 months,
18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 42 months, 48 months, 54 months,
or 60 months. In some embodiments, an antigen in a stable formulation of the
invention may maintain at least 50% potency, as compared to a reference standard,
for at least 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years or 5 years. The terms "stable" and
"stability" also refer to the ability of an antigen to maintain epitopes or
immunoreactivity over a period of time. For example, an antigen in a stable
formulation of the invention may maintain at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%,
85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100% of its epitopes or
immunoreactivity, as compared to a reference standard, for at least 1 month, 2
months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18
months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 42 months, 48 months, 54 months, or
60 months. In some embodiments, stability is measured with respect to an
environmental condition. Non-limiting examples of environmental conditions
include light, temperature, freeze/thaw cycles, agitation, and pH. One of skill in
the art would be able to determine the presence of antigenic epitopes or
immunoreactivity using the methods disclosed herein or other methods known in
the art. See, e.g., McNeil et al. Vaccine. 27: 3417-3421 (2009). In some
embodiments, the stability of an antigen is measured from the date of its
formulation. In some embodiments, the stability of an antigen is measured from
the date of a change in its storage conditions. Non-limiting examples of changes in
storage conditions include changing from frozen to refrigerated, changing from
frozen to room temperature, changing from refrigerated to room temperature,
changing from refrigerated to frozen, changing from room temperature to frozen,
changing from room temperature to refrigerated, changing from light to dark, or
introduction of agitation.
[0072] The terms "stablizer" refers to a compound that binds to an antigen and
maintains the epitopes or immunoreactivity of the antigen over a period of time.
Stabilizers are known in the art. Examples of stabilizers include multivalent
cations, for example, calcium or aluminum.
[0073] The term "subject" refers to a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, or any other
animal. The term "subject" also includes humans. The term "subject" also
includes household pets. Non-limiting examples of household pets include: dogs,
cats, pigs, rabbits, rats, mice, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, birds, snakes,
lizards, fish, turtles, and frogs. The term "subject" also includes livestock animals.
Non-limiting examples of livestock animals include: alpaca, bison, camel, cattle,
deer, pigs, horses, llamas, mules, donkeys, sheep, goats, rabbits, reindeer, yak,
chickens, geese, and turkeys.
[0074] The terms "vaccine" or "vaccine composition", which are used
interchangeably, refer to pharmaceutical compositions comprising at least one
immunogenic composition that induces an immune response in a subject.
General Description
[0075] The present invention arises out of the novel discovery that rLP2086
Subfamily B antigens, but not rLP2086 Subfamily A antigens, lose potency over
time in a bivalent vaccine formulation and are thus unstable. By varying
components in the bivalent formulation, it was determined that high molar ratios of
detergent to protein in the bivalent vaccine formulation resulted in rLP2086
Subfamily B antigen specific instability. Reducing the molar ratio of detergent to
protein in bivalent and monovalent formulations resulted in increased stability, as
determined by maintenance of potency over time, of rLP2086 Subfamily B antigen
without affecting the stability of rLP2086 Subfamily A antigen. This result is
surprising because lipoproteins are typically purified and stored using high
detergent concentrations to prevent aggregation of their hydrophobic lipid
moieties. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the invention provides an
immunogenic composition comprising a rLP2086 Subfamily B antigen and low
molar ratio of detergent to protein. In some embodiments, the invention provides a
method of maintaining stability of a rLP2086 Subfamily B antigen in an
immunogenic composition comprising the step of storing the rLP2086 Subfamily
B antigen in a buffer comprising a low molar ratio of detergent to protein.
[0076] Further studies revealed that low molar ratio formulations resulted in
aggregation of rLP2086 Subfamily A and B antigens upon agitation of the low
molar ratio immunogenic compositions. Increasing aluminum concentration in
low molar ratio compositions, however, prevented aggregation of rLP2086
Subfamily A and B antigens, even with agitation. Moreover, rLP0286 Subfamily
A antigens are more sensitive to the effects of low detergent molar ratios in the
absence of aluminum. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the invention provides
an immunogenic composition comprising rLP2086 Subfamily A antigen, rLP2086
Subfamily B antigen, high concentration aluminum and low molar ratio of
detergent to protein. In some embodiments, the invention provides a method of
maintaining stability of rLP2086 Subfamily A antigen and rLP2086 Subfamily B
antigen in an immunogenic composition comprising the step of storing the
rLP2086 Subfamily A antigen and rLP2086 Subfamily B antigen in a buffer
comprising a high concentration of aluminum and a low molar ratio of detergent to
protein.
Immunogenic Compositions
[0077] Immunogenic compositions that include a protein encoded by a
nucleotide sequence from Neisseria meningitidis ORF2086 are known in the art.
Exemplary immunogenic compositions include those described in US patent
application publication numbers US 20060257413 and US 20090202593, which
are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Such immunogenic
compositions described therein include a protein exhibiting bactericidal activity
identified as ORF2086 protein, immunogenic portions thereof, and/or biological
equivalents thereof. The ORF2086 protein refers to a protein encoded by open
reading frame 2086 of Neisseria species.
[0078] The protein may be a recombinant protein or an isolated protein from
native Neisseria species. For example, Neisseria ORF2086 proteins may be
isolated from bacterial strains, such as those of Neisseria species, including strains
ofNeisseria meningitidis (serogroups A, B, C, D, W-135, X, Y, Z, and 29E),
Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Neisseria lactamica, as well as immunogenic portions
and/or biological equivalents of said proteins.
[0079] The ORF2086 proteins include 2086 Subfamily A proteins and Subfamily
B proteins, immunogenic portions thereof, and/or biological equivalents thereof.
The ORF2086 proteins or equivalents thereof, etc. may be lipidated or nonlipidated.
Preferably, the Neisseria ORF2086 protein is lipidated.
[0080] In an one embodiment, the immunogenic composition includes an
isolated protein having at least 95% amino acid sequence identity to a protein
encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086.
[0081] In one embodiment, the immunogenic composition includes an isolated
protein having at least 95% amino acid sequence identity to a Subfamily A protein
encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086. Preferably, the
immunogenic composition includes an isolated Subfamily A protein encoded by a
nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086.
[0082] In another embodiment, the immunogenic composition includes an
isolated protein having at least 95% amino acid sequence identity to a Subfamily B
protein encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086. Preferably,
the immunogenic composition includes an isolated Subfamily B protein encoded
by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086. In some embodiments, the
ORF2086 Subfamily B protein is a B01variant.
[0083] In yet another embodiment, the immunogenic composition includes an
isolated protein having at least 95% amino acid sequence identity to a Subfamily A
protein encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086, and an
isolated protein having at least 95% amino acid sequence identity to a Subfamily B
protein encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086. Preferably,
the immunogenic composition includes an isolated Subfamily A protein encoded
by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086 and an isolated Subfamily B
protein encoded by a nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086.
[0084] In one embodiment, the immunogenic composition includes a 1:1ratio of
a Subfamily A protein to a Subfamily B protein.
[0085] The immunogenic composition may include a protein encoded by a
nucleotide sequence from Neisseria ORF2086, polynucleotides, or equivalents
thereof as the sole active immunogen in the immunogenic composition.
Alternatively, the immunogenic composition may further include active
immunogens, including other Neisseria sp. immunogenic polypeptides, or
immunologically-active proteins of one or more other microbial pathogens (e.g.
virus, prion, bacterium, or fungus, without limitation) or capsular polysaccharide.
The compositions may comprise one or more desired proteins, fragments or
pharmaceutical compounds as desired for a chosen indication.
[0086] Any multi-antigen or multi-valent immunogenic composition is
contemplated by the present invention. For example, the immunogenic
composition may include combinations of two or more ORF2086 proteins, a
combination of ORF2086 protein with one or more Por A proteins, a combination
of ORF2086 protein with meningococcus serogroup A, C, Y and W135
polysaccharides and/or polysaccharide conjugates, a combination of ORF2086
protein with meningococcus andpneumococcus combinations, or a combination of
any of the foregoing in a form suitable for a desired administration, e.g., for
mucosal delivery. Persons of skill in the art would be readily able to formulate
such multi-antigen or multi-valent immunologic compositions.
[0087] The present invention also contemplates multi-immunization regimens
wherein any composition useful against a pathogen may be combined therein or
therewith the compositions of the present invention. For example, without
limitation, a patient may be administered the immunogenic composition of the
present invention and another immununological composition for immunizing
against human papillomavirus virus (HPV), such as the HPV vaccine
GARDASIL®, as part of a multi-immunization regimen. Persons of skill in the art
would be readily able to select immunogenic compositions for use in conjunction
with the immunogenic compositions of the present invention for the purposes of
developing and implementing multi-immunization regimens.
[0088] The ORF2086 polypeptides, fragments and equivalents can be used as
part of a conjugate immunogenic composition; wherein one or more proteins or
polypeptides are conjugated to a carrier in order to generate a composition that has
immunogenic properties against several serotypes and/or against several diseases.
Alternatively, one of the ORF2086 polypeptides can be used as a carrier protein for
other immunogenic polypeptides. Formulation of such immunogenic compositions
is well known to persons skilled in this field.
[0089] Immunogenic compositions of the invention preferably include a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers
and/or diluents include any and all conventional solvents, dispersion media, fillers,
solid carriers, aqueous solutions, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents,
isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like. Suitable pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers include, for example, one or more of water, saline, phosphate
buffered saline, dextrose, glycerol, ethanol and the like, as well as combinations
thereof.
[0090] Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers may further include minor amounts
of auxiliary substances such as wetting or emulsifying agents, preservatives or
buffers, which enhance the shelf life or effectiveness of the antibody. The
preparation and use of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers is well known in the
art. Except insofar as any conventional media or agent is incompatible with the
active ingredient, use thereof in the immunogenic compositions of the present
invention is contemplated.
[0091] Immunogenic compositions can be administered parenterally, e.g., by
injection, either subcutaneously or intramuscularly, as well as orally or
intranasally. Methods for intramuscular immunization are described by Wolff et al.
Biotechniques ; l(4):474-85. (1991). and by Sedegah et al. PNAS Vol. 91, pp.
9866-9870, (1994). Other modes of administration employ oral formulations,
pulmonary formulations, suppositories, and transdermal applications, for example,
without limitation. Oral formulations, for example, include such normally
employed excipients as, for example, pharmaceutical grades of mannitol, lactose,
starch, magnesium stearate, sodium saccharine, cellulose, magnesium carbonate,
and the like, without limitation. Preferably, the immunogenic composition is
administered intramuscularly.
[0092] The immunogenic compositions of the invention can include one or more
adjuvants. Exemplary adjuvants include, but are not limited to aluminum
hydroxide; aluminum phosphate; STIMULON™ QS-21 (Aquila
Biopharmaceuticals, Inc., Framingham, Mass.); MPL™ (3-O-deacylated
monophosphoryl lipid A; Corixa, Hamilton, Mont.), 529 (an amino alkyl
glucosamine phosphate compound, Corixa, Hamilton, Mont.), IL-12 (Genetics
Institute, Cambridge, Mass.); GM-CSF (Immunex Corp., Seattle, Wash.); Nacetyl-
muramyl-L-theronyl-D-isoglutamine (thr-MDP); N-acetyl-nor-muramyl-Lalanyl-
D-isoglutamine (CGP 11637, referred to as nor-MDP); N-acetylmuramyl-Lalanyl-
D-isoglutaminyl-L-alanine-2-(l'-2 '-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-hydroxyphosphoryloxy-
ethylamin e) (CGP 19835A, referred to as MTP-PE); and cholera toxin.
In certain preferred embodiments, the adjuvant is QS-21.
[0093] Additional exemplary adjuvants include non-toxic derivatives of cholera
toxin, including its A subunit, and/or conjugates or genetically engineered fusions
of the N. meningitidis polypeptide with cholera toxin or its B subunit ("CTB"),
procholeragenoid, fungal polysaccharides, including schizophyllan, muramyl
dipeptide, muramyl dipeptide ("MDP") derivatives, phorbol esters, the heat labile
toxin of E. coli , block polymers or saponins.
[0094] Aluminum phosphate has been used as the adjuvant in a phase 1 clinical
trial to a concentration 0.125 mg/dose, much lower than the limit of 0.85 mg/ dose
specified by the US Code of Federal Regulations [610. 15(a)].
Aluminum-containing adjuvants are widely used in humans to potentiate the
immune response of antigens when administered intramuscularly or
subcutaneously.
[0095] In certain preferred embodiments, the proteins of this invention are used
in an immunogenic composition for oral administration which includes a mucosal
adjuvant and used for the treatment or prevention of N. meningitidis infection in a
human host. The mucosal adjuvant can be a cholera toxin; however, preferably,
mucosal adjuvants other than cholera toxin which may be used in accordance with
the present invention include non-toxic derivatives of a cholera holotoxin, wherein
the A subunit is mutagenized, chemically modified cholera toxin, or related
proteins produced by modification of the cholera toxin amino acid sequence. For a
specific cholera toxin which may be particularly useful in preparing immunogenic
compositions of this invention, see the mutant cholera holotoxin E29H, as
disclosed in Published International Application WO 00/18434, which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. These may be added to, or
conjugated with, the polypeptides of this invention. The same techniques can be
applied to other molecules with mucosal adjuvant or delivery properties such as
Escherichia coli heat labile toxin (LT). Other compounds with mucosal adjuvant
or delivery activity may be used such as bile; polycations such as DEAE-dextran
and polyornithine; detergents such as sodium dodecyl benzene sulphate; lipidconjugated
materials; antibiotics such as streptomycin; vitamin A; and other
compounds that alter the structural or functional integrity of mucosal surfaces.
Other mucosally active compounds include derivatives of microbial structures such
as MDP; acridine and cimetidine. STIMULON™ QS-21, MPL, and IL-12, as
described above, may also be used.
[0096] The immunogenic compositions of this invention may be delivered in the
form of ISCOMS (immune stimulating complexes), ISCOMS containing CTB,
liposomes or encapsulated in compounds such as acrylates or poly(DL-lactide-coglycoside)
to form microspheres of a size suited to adsorption. The proteins of this
invention may also be incorporated into oily emulsions.
[0097] An amount (i.e., dose) of immunogenic composition that is administered
to the patient can be determined in accordance with standard techniques known to
those of ordinary skill in the art, taking into consideration such factors as the
particular antigen, the adjuvant (if present), the age, sex, weight, species, condition
of the particular patient, and the route of administration.
[0098] For example, a dosage for an adolescent human patient may include at
least O.^g, 1 mg, 10 mg, or 50 mg of a Neisseria ORF2086 protein, and at most 80
mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, or 200 mg of a Neisseria ORF2086 protein. Any minimum
value and any maximum value may be combined to define a suitable range.
In vitro potency assay
[0099] Potency is determined by quantitation of functional epitopes in Subfamily
A and Subfamily B proteins in an immunogenic composition using
conformation-specific monoclonal antibodies against a rLP2086 reference
material. Potency is determined by quantitative measure of the functional epitopes
in Subfamily A or Subfamily B rLP2086 proteins that will elicit immune response
in vivo to generate bactericidal antibodies. Quantitative technology is used for
potency assay with selected monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Two functional
monoclonal antibodies that are conformational and non-overlapping are selected
for each Subfamily rLP2086 protein in the immunogenic compositions. Between
the two purified monoclonal antibodies, the first antibody is conjugated to a first
tag, wherein the first tag is used to capture of rLP2086 protein molecule. In some
embodiments, the first tag is biotin, glutathione-S transferase (GST), a 6xHis tag,
or beads (e.g. carboxylated polystyrene beads or paramagnetic beads). In some
embodiments the first tag is captured with streptavidin beads, a streptavidin
column, nickel beads, a nickel column, centrifugation or with a magnetic field.
The second antibody is conjugated to a second tag, wherein the second tag is
quantifiable. In some embodiments, the second tag is biotin, horseradish
peroxidase (HRP), a fluorophore or a radiolabel. In some embodiments, the
second tag is detected with streptavidin conjugated to a fluorophore or HRP, by
electrochemilummescence, detection of fluorescence, or detection of radioactivity.
Only the proteins that exhibit both epitopes recognized by the two mAbs in each
immunogenic composition will be measured. Changes in any one or both epitopes
of the protein will be reflected. The potency of the sample is reported relative to
the potency of the reference material.
[0100] In some embodiments, the invention encompasses a method for
determining the potency of a 2086 protein. In some embodiments, the method
comprises the steps of: (1) incubating a first monoclonal Ab and a second mAb
with an immunogenic composition comprising a 2086 protein, wherein the first
mAb is conjugated to a first tag that is used to capture the mAb and the second
niAb is conjugated to a second tag that is detectable and wherein the first and
second mAbs are directed to different conformational epitopes on a 2086 reference
protein; (2) capturing the first mAb-bound 2086 protein using the first tag; and (3)
detecting and quantifying the amount of captured second mAb-bound 2086 protein
using the second tag. In some embodiments, the 2086 protein is a Subfamily A
protein. In some embodiments, the 2086 protein is a Subfamily B protein. In
some embodiments, the 2086 protein is lipidated. In some embodiments, the 2086
protein is non-lipidated. In some embodiments, the 2086 protein is recombinant.
In some embodiments, the first tag is biotin, a 6xHis tag, or beads (e.g.
carboxylated polystyrene beads or paramagnetic beads). In some embodiments,
the first tag is captured with streptavidin beads, a streptavidin column, glutathione
beads, glutathione column, nickel beads, a nickel column, centrifugation or with a
magnetic field. In some embodiments, the second tag is biotin, HRP, a fluorophore
or a radiolabel. In some embodiments, the second tag is detected with streptavidin
conjugated to a fluorophore or HRP, by electrochemiluminescence, detection of
fluorescence, or detection of radioactivity. In some embodiments, the
immunogenic composition comprises multiple 2086 protein variants.
Stability of rLP2086 Subfamily B Antigen Potency
[0101] In some embodiments, the invention provides an immunogenic
composition for stabilizing a rLP2086 Subfamily B antigens over time comprising
a buffer with a low detergent-to-protein molar ratio.
[0102] In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the
immunogenic composition is between about 0.5 and about 10. In some
embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the immunogenic
composition is between about 1 and about 5. In some embodiments, the
detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the immunogenic composition is between about
1.4 and about 4.2. In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in
the immunogenic composition is about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about
0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6,
about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about
2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1,
about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about
3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about 4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6,
about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about 5.0, about 5.5, about 6.0, about 6.5, about
7.0, about 7.5, about 8.0, about 8.5, about 9.0, about 9.5, or about 10. In some
embodiments, the detergent is a non-ionic detergent. In some embodiments, the
detergent is a polysorbate detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is
Polysorbate 80.
[0103] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
multivalent cation. In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or
aluminum. In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as one or more of
AIPO4, Al(OH)3, Al2(S0 4 ) 3 and alum. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition comprises between about 0.1 mg/niL and about 1 mg/niL; between
about 0.25 mg/niL and about 0.75 mg/niL, or between about 0.4mg/mL and about
0.6 mg/niL aluminum. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition
comprises about 0.1 mg/niL, about 0.15 mg/niL; about 0.2 mg/niL, about
0.25 mg/niL, about 0.3 mg/niL, about 0.35 mg/niL, about 0.4mg/niL, about
0.45 mg/niL, about 0.5 mg/niL, about 0.55 mg/niL, about 0.6 mg/niL, about
0.65 mg/niL, about 0.7 mg/niL, about 0.75 mg/niL, about 0.8 mg/niL, about
0.85 mg/niL, 0.9 mg/niL, about 0.95 mg/niL, or about 1 mg/niL aluminum. In
some embodiments, there is at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%,
at least 98%, at least 99% or 100% binding of aluminum to protein.
[0104] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
buffer comprising histidine. In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine
is between about 2mM and about 20mM; between about 5mM and about 15mM, or
between about 8mM and 12mM. In some embodiments, the concentration of
histidine is about 2mM, about 3mM, about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about
7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about
13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM, about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM,
about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0105] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
buffer comprising succinate. In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate
is between about 2mM and about 20mM; between about 2mM and about 1OmM, or
between about 3mM and 7mM. In some embodiments, the concentration of
succinate is about 2mM, about 3mM, about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about
7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about
13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM, about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM,
about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0106] In some embodiments, the pH of the immunogenic composition has a pH
between about 5.0 and about 8.0; between about 5.5 and about 7.0; or between
about 5.8 and about 6.0. In some embodiments, the pH of the immunogenic
composition has a pH about 5.0, about 5.1, about 5.2, about 5.3, about 5.4, about
5.5, about 5.6, about 5.7, about 5.8, about 5.9, about 6.0, about 6.1, about 6.2,
about 6.3, about 6.4, or about 6.5.
[0107] In some embodiments, the formulation of MnB rLP2086 Subfamily B
protein antigen immunogenic composition is 10 mM histidine-buffered saline, pH
6.0, containing 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate
80:protein molar ratio of 2.8.
[0108] In some embodiments, the formulation of MnB rLP2086 Subfamily B
protein antigen immunogenic composition is 5 mM succinate-buffered saline, pH
6.0, containing 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate
80:protein molar ratio of 2.8.
[0109] In some embodiments, the invention provides a method of stabilizing a
rLP2086 Subfamily B antigens over time comprising storing the antigens in a
buffer with a low detergent-to-protein molar ratio.
[0110] In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is
between about 0.5 and about 10. In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein
molar ratio in the buffer is between about 1 and about 5. In some embodiments,
the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is between about 1.4 and about
4.2. In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is
about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about
1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9,
about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about
2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1, about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4,
about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about 3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about
4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6, about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9,
about 5.0, about 5.5, about 6.0, about 6.5, about 7.0, about 7.5, about 8.0, about
8.5, about 9.0, about 9.5, or about 10. In some embodiments, the detergent is a
non-ionic detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is a polysorbate
detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is polysorbate-80.
[0111] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises a multivalent cation.
In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or aluminum. In some
embodiments, the aluminum is present as one or more of AIPO4, Al(OH)3,
Al2(S0 4 ) 3 and alum. In some embodiments, the stabilizer in the buffer is between
about 0.1 mg/niL and about 1 mg/niL; between about 0.25 mg/niL and about 0.75
mg/niL, or between about 0.4mg/niL and about 0.6 mg/niL aluminum. In some
embodiments, the stabilizer in the buffer is about 0.1 mg/niL, about 0.15 mg/niL;
about 0.2 mg/niL, about 0.25 mg/niL, about 0.3 mg/niL, about 0.35 mg/niL, about
0.4mg/niL, about 0.45 mg/niL, about 0.5 mg/niL, about 0.55 mg/niL, about
0.6 mg/niL, about 0.65 mg/niL, about 0.7 mg/niL, about 0.75 mg/niL, about 0.8
mg/niL, about 0.85 mg/niL, 0.9 mg/niL, about 0.95 mg/niL, or about 1 mg/niL
aluminum. In some embodiments, there is at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%,
at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or 100% binding of aluminum to protein.
[0112] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises histidine. In some
embodiments, the concentration of histidine is between about 2mM and about
20mM; between about 5mM and about 15mM, or between about 8mM and 12mM.
In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine is about 2mM, about 3mM,
about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about 7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about
lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about 13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM,
about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM, about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0113] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises succinate. In some
embodiments, the concentration of succinate is between about 2mM and about
20mM; between about 2mM and about 1OmM, or between about 3mM and 7mM.
In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate is about 2mM, about 3mM,
about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about 7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about
lOmM, about 1lmM, about 12mM, about 13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM,
about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM, about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0114] In some embodiments, the buffer has a pH of between about 5.0 and
about 8.0; between about 5.5 and about 7.0; or between about 5.8 and about 6.0. In
some embodiments, the buffer has a pH of about 5.0, about 5.1, about 5.2, about
5.3, about 5.4, about 5.5, about 5.6, about 5.7, about 5.8, about 5.9, about 6.0,
about 6.1, about 6.2, about 6.3, about 6.4, or about 6.5.
[0115] In some embodiments, the buffer in which the MnB rLP2086 Subfamily
B protein antigen is stored is 10 mM histidine -buffered saline, pH 6.0, containing
0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate 80:protein molar
ratio of 2.8.
[0116] In some embodiments, the buffer in which the MnB rLP2086 Subfamily
B protein antigen is stored is 5 mM succinate-buffered saline, pH 6.0, containing
0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate 80:protein molar
ratio of 2.8.
Stability of rLP2086 Subfamily A and B Antigen Potency
[0117] In some embodiments, the invention provides an immunogenic
composition for stabilizing rLP2086 Subfamily A and/or rLP2086 Subfamily B
antigens over time comprising a buffer with a high stabilizer concentration and a
low detergent-to-protein molar ratio.
[0118] In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the
immunogenic composition is between about 0.5 and about 10. In some
embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the immunogenic
composition is between about 1 and about 5. In some embodiments, the
detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the immunogenic composition is between about
1.4 and about 4.2. In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in
the immunogenic composition is about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about
0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6,
about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about
2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1,
about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about
3.9, about 4.0, about 4. 1, about 4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6,
about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about 5.0, about 5.5, about 6.0, about 6.5, about
7.0, about 7.5, about 8.0, about 8.5, about 9.0, about 9.5, or about 10. In some
embodiments, the detergent is a non-ionic detergent. In some embodiments, the
detergent is a polysorbate detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is
Polysorbate 80.
[0119] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
multivalent cation. In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or
aluminum. In some embodiments, the aluminum is present as one or more of
AIPO4, Al(OH)3, Al2(S0 4 ) 3 and alum. In some embodiments, the immunogenic
composition comprises between about 0.1 mg/niL and about 1 mg/niL; between
about 0.25 mg/niL and about 0.75 mg/niL, or between about 0.4mg/niL and about
0.6 mg/niL aluminum. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition
comprises about 0.1 mg/niL, about 0.15 mg/niL; about 0.2 mg/niL, about
0.25 mg/niL, about 0.3 mg/niL, about 0.35 mg/niL, about 0.4mg/niL, about
0.45 mg/niL, about 0.5 mg/niL, about 0.55 mg/niL, about 0.6 mg/niL, about
0.65 mg/niL, about 0.7 mg/niL, about 0.75 mg/niL, about 0.8 mg/niL, about
0.85 mg/niL, 0.9 mg/niL, about 0.95 mg/niL, or about 1 mg/niL aluminum. In
some embodiments, there is at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%,
at least 98%, at least 99% or 100% binding of aluminum to protein.
[0120] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
buffer comprising histidine. In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine
is between about 2mM and about 20mM; between about 5mM and about 15mM, or
between about 8mM and 12mM. In some embodiments, the concentration of
histidine is about 2mM, about 3mM, about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about
7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about
13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM, about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM,
about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0121] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition further comprises a
buffer comprising succinate. In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate
is between about 2mM and about 20mM; between about 2mM and about 1OmM, or
between about 3mM and 7mM. In some embodiments, the concentration of
succinate is about 2mM, about 3mM, about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about
7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about lOmM, about 1lmM, about 12mM, about
13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM, about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM,
about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0122] In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition has a pH of
between about 5.0 and about 8.0; between about 5.5 and about 7.0; or between
about 5.8 and about 6.0. In some embodiments, the immunogenic composition has
a pH of about 5.0, about 5.1, about 5.2, about 5.3, about 5.4, about 5.5, about 5.6,
about 5.7, about 5.8, about 5.9, about 6.0, about 6.1, about 6.2, about 6.3, about
6.4, or about 6.5.
[0123] In some embodiments, the formulation of MnB rLP2086 Subfamily A and
B protein antigens is 10 mM histidine-buffered saline, pH 6.0, containing
0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate 80:protein molar
ratio of 2.8.
[0124] In some embodiments, the formulation of MnB rLP2086 Subfamily B
protein antigen immunogenic composition is 5 mM succinate-buffered saline, pH
6.0, containing 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate
80:protein molar ratio of 2.8.
[0125] In some embodiments, the invention provides a method of stabilizing
rLP2086 Subfamily A and/or rLP2086 Subfamily B antigens over time comprising
storing the antigens in a buffer with a high stabilizer concentration and a low
detergent-to-protein molar ratio.
[0126] In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio less than 10:1.
In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is between
about 0.5 and about 10. In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio
in the buffer is between about 1 and about 5. In some embodiments, the
detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is between about 1.4 and about 4.2.
In some embodiments, the detergent-to-protein molar ratio in the buffer is about
0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2,
about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about
2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7,
about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1, about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about
3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about 3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about 4.2,
about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6, about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about
5.0, about 5.5, about 6.0, about 6.5, about 7.0, about 7.5, about 8.0, about 8.5,
about 9.0, about 9.5, or about 10. In some embodiments, the detergent is a
non-ionic detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is a polysorbate
detergent. In some embodiments, the detergent is Polysorbate 80.
[0127] In some embodiments, the stabilizer in the buffer is a multivalent cation.
In some embodiments, the multivalent cation is calcium or aluminum. In some
embodiments, the aluminum is present as one or more of AIPO4, Al(OH)3,
Al2(S0 4 ) 3 and alum. In some embodiments, the stabilizer in the buffer is between
about 0.1 mg/niL and about 1 mg/niL; between about 0.25 mg/niL and about 0.75
mg/niL, or between about 0.4mg/niL and about 0.6 mg/niL aluminum. In some
embodiments, the stabilizer in the buffer is about 0.1 mg/niL, about 0.15 mg/niL;
about 0.2 mg/niL, about 0.25 mg/niL, about 0.3 mg/niL, about 0.35 mg/niL, about
0.4mg/niL, about 0.45 mg/niL, about 0.5 mg/niL, about 0.55 mg/niL, about
0.6 mg/niL, about 0.65 mg/niL, about 0.7 mg/niL, about 0.75 mg/niL, about 0.8
mg/niL, about 0.85 mg/niL, 0.9 mg/niL, about 0.95 mg/niL, or about 1 mg/niL
aluminum. In some embodiments, there is at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%,
at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or 100% binding of aluminum to protein.
[0128] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises histidine. In some
embodiments, the concentration of histidine is between about 2mM and about
20mM; between about 5mM and about 15mM, or between about 8mM and 12mM.
In some embodiments, the concentration of histidine is about 2mM, about 3mM,
about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about 7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about
lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about 13mM, about 14mM, about 15mM,
about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM, about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0129] In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises succinate. In some
embodiments, the concentration of succinate is between about 2mM and about
20mM; between about 2mM and about 1OmM, or between about 3mM and 7mM.
In some embodiments, the concentration of succinate is about 2mM, about 3mM,
about 4mM, about 5mM, about 6mM, about 7mM, about 8mM, about 9mM, about
lOmM, about 1ImM, about 12mM, about OmM, about 14mM, about 15mM,
about 16mM, about 17mM, about 18mM, about 19mM or about 20mM.
[0130] In some embodiments, the buffer has a pH of between about 5.0 and
about 8.0; between about 5.5 and about 7.0; or between about 5.8 and about 6.0. In
some embodiments, the buffer has a pH of about 5.0, about 5.1, about 5.2, about
5.3, about 5.4, about 5.5, about 5.6, about 5.7, about 5.8, about 5.9, about 6.0,
about 6.1, about 6.2, about 6.3, about 6.4, or about 6.5.
[0131] In some embodiments, the buffer that the MnB rLP2086 Subfamily A and
B protein antigens are stored in is 10 mM histidine-buffered saline, pH 6.0,
containing 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate
80:protein molar ratio of 2.8.
[0132] In some embodiments, the buffer that the MnB rLP2086 Subfamily A and
B protein antigens are stored in is 5 mM succinate-buffered saline, pH 6.0,
containing 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as aluminum phosphate and Polysorbate
80:protein molar ratio of 2.8.
[0133] In order that this invention may be better understood, the following
examples are set forth. The examples are for the purpose of illustration only and
are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.
[0134] All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference.
EXAMPLES
Example 1: Experimental Procedures
Determination of Aluminum Binding
[0135] A composition comprising aluminum and at least one protein antigen was
centrifuged such that the aluminum was pelleted. Centrifugation of aluminum
absorbed proteins is known in the art. See e.g., Egan et al., Vaccine , Vol. 27(24):
3175-3180 (2009). Aluminum-bound protein was also pelleted, while nonaluminum-
bound protein remained in the supernatant. Total protein in the
supernatant and pellet were determined by Lowry Assay. The percentage bound
protein was calculated by dividing the total protein in the supernatant by the total
protein added to the composition and multiplying by 100%. Similarly, the
percentage unbound protein was calculated by dividing the total protein in the
supernatant by the total protein added to the composition and multiplying by
100%.
[0136] For compositions comprising both Subfamily A and Subfamily B
antigens, the individual Subfamily A and B protein concentrations in the
supernatant were determined by ion-exchange chromatography. The separation
and elution of Subfamily A and B proteins was carried out using a strong anion
column and a high salt concentration eluent. Both Subfamily A and B proteins
were detected and quantified using a fluorescence detector set at Excitation = 280
run and Emission = 310 run. Subfamily A and Subfamily B proteins elute at
distinct retention times and were quantified using a standard curve generated
against a rLP2086 protein reference material. The percentage unbound protein was
calculated by dividing the total protein in the supernatant by the total protein added
to the composition and multiplying by 100%. The percentage bound protein was
calculated by subtracting the percentage unbound protein from 100%.
In Vitro Potency Assay
[0137] The rLP2086 potency assay is a homogeneous capture assay or sandwich
assay that relies on two functional monoclonal antibodies that recognize
conformational and non-overlapping epitopes on a single protein molecule of the
rLP2086 drug substance. One purified monoclonal antibody serves as the capture
antibody (rnAb) and is chemically conjugated to carboxylated polystyrene beads
which have a unique color-coded identifier. The second antibody is biotinylated
and serves as a detection antibody that is subsequently bound by streptavidin
conjugated to the fluorophore R-phycoerythrin (SA-PE). The fluidics of a Bio-
Plex detection instrument quantifies individual microspheres and their associated
SA-PE signal. A fluorescence signal from the R-phycoerythrin associated with the
microsphere will be detected only by ternary complex formation between beadconjugated
antibody, antigen, and detection antibody and will be proportional to
the number of functional epitopes in the rLP2086 samples. A change in one or
both epitopes resulting in a loss of fluorescence relative to a reference standard will
indicate a loss in potency.
Reagents
• Monoclonal antibody conjugated microspheres (conjugated to Luminex
MicroPlex Microsphere bead region #12 or to bead region #66).
• Biotinylated monoclonal antibody.
• rLP2086 reference materials, Subfamilies A and B, 2 mg/ml. Store at -
70 °C.
• rLP2086 Subfamily A and B bivalent control
• Streptavidin, R-phycoerythrin conjugated, lyophilized
Buffers
• 10 mM Histidine, 150 mM NaCl, pH 6.0
• 5% w/v polysorbate 80 (PS-80) in 0.85% w/v saline.
• Matrix Buffer (10 mM Histidine, 0.02% polysorbate 80, 150 mM NaCl,
pH 6.0).
• Assay Buffer (PBS, pH 7.4 with 0.1% BSA, 0.02% polysorbate 80, 0.1%
azide).
• 1OOx Streptavidin, R-phycoerythrin-conjugated (SA-PE) - Open vial of
lyophilized streptavidin, R-phycoerythrin and add 1mL of distilled water.
Vortexed until completely dissolved.
Procedure
[0138] 200 of Subfamily B protein were
added to 600 mΐ of Matrix Buffer for a concentration of 400 mg ml of each
subfamily. A standard curve of eight concentrations (3333-1.5 ng/mL) was
generated by diluting the stock solution in Assay Buffer.
[0139] 200 mΐ of the bivalent control was added to 800 mΐ of Matrix Buffer for a
concentration of 400 mg/mL of each subfamily. The 400 mg/mL stock to make
100, 50, and 12.5 ng/mL working concentrations diluted in Assay Buffer. 100 and
12.5 ng/mL represented high and low controls (CH) and (CL) respectively.
[0140] Test samples were diluted in Matrix Buffer to a concentration of
400 mg/mL. 100, 50, and 12.5 ng/mL working solutions were prepared from the
400 mg/mL stock.
[0141] A homogenous assay mixture using a conjugated bead concentration of
2 x 105 beads/mL and a detection antibody concentration of 30 mg/mL in Assay
Buffer was prepared. A sample plate was prepared by adding 0.4 mL of standard,
control, sample or blank to a 2 mL 96-well deep well plate. The filters of an
96-well MultiScreen HTs-BV filter plate were pre-wet by adding 100 mΐ of Assay
Buffer, which was then drawn through the filter by vacuum suction. 25 mΐ of the
prepared homogenous assay mixture was added to 96-well plate. 25 m of each
standard, control, sample or blank solution was added to each well of the 96-well
filter plate. The plates were incubated at room temperature for one hour with
shaking.
[0142] After the antigen-antibody incubation buffer was removed by vacuum
aspiration through the filter. The filter of each well was washed three times with
100 mΐ of Assay Buffer followed by vacuum aspiration. After the final wash, 50
m of l SA-PE was added to each well. The plate was incubated 10 minutes at
room temperature with shaking on a titer in the dark.
[0143] Following the SA-PE incubation, 75 mΐ of Assay Buffer was added to
each well of the plate for a total volume of 1 5 mΐ . The plate was immediately
read on a Bio-Plex 200 System.
Serum bactericidal assay
[0144] New Zealand White female rabbits, 2.5-3.0 kg, obtained from Charles
River Canada (St. Constant, QC, Canada), were prescreened by whole cell ELISA
to identify those with low reactivity against two different meningococcal strains
(one from each P2086 subfamily). The rabbits, in general, had very low
backgrounds, and those with the lowest values were selected for use. The rabbits
were vaccinated intramuscularly at weeks 0, 4, and 9 with either monovalent
rLP2086-A05, monovalent rLP2086-B01 or a bivalent r LP2086-A05 + B01
vaccine. Each dose contained 100mg of protein for the monovalent vaccines and
100mg of each protein for the bivalent vaccine, formulated in lOmM histidine
buffer pH 6.0, 150mM NaCl, 0.02% Polysorbate 80 and 250mg A1P04. The
vaccine was injected intramuscularly into the right hind leg (0.5 ml/dose). As a
control, one group of rabbits was vaccinated with the formulation buffer alone.
Pre-immune (week 0) and immune (week 10) serum samples were obtained for
analyses. All animal protocols adhered to the established Institutional Animal
Care and Use Committee guidelines.
[0145] Serum bactericidal antibodies in rabbits immunized with rLP2086 vaccine
were determined using SBAs with human complement. Rabbit immune sera were
heat-inactivated to remove intrinsic complement activity and subsequently serially
diluted 1:2 in Dulbecco's PBS with Ca2+ and Mg2+ (D-PBS) in a 96-well
microtiter plate to test for serum bactericidal activity against N. meningitidis
strains. Bacteria used in the assay were grown in GC media supplemented with
Kellogg's supplement (GCK) and monitored by optical density at 650 nm.
Bacteria were harvested for use in the assay at a final OD 0 of 0.50-0.55, diluted
in D-PBS and 1000-3000 CFU were added to the assay mixture with 20% human
complement.
[0146] Human serum with no detectable bactericidal activity was used as the
exogenous complement source. Complement sources were tested for suitability
against each individual test strain. A complement source was used only if the
number of bacteria surviving in controls without added immune sera was >75%.
Ten unique complement sources were required to perform the SBAs described in
this study.
[0147] After a 30 min incubation at 37°C with 5% C0 2, D-PBS was added to the
reaction mixture and aliquots transferred to microfilter plates filled with 50% GCK
media. The microfilter plates were filtered, incubated overnight at 37°C with 5%
CO2 and microcolonies were stained and quantified. The serum bactericidal titers
were defined as the interpolated reciprocal serum dilution that yielded a 50%
reduction in CFU compared to the CFU in control wells without immune sera. The
SBA titer is defined as the reciprocal of the interpolated dilution of test serum that
causes a 50% reduction in bacterial counts after a 30min incubation at 37°C.
Susceptibility to killing with P2086 immune sera was established if there was a
4-fold or greater rise in SBA titer for P2086 immune sera compared to the
corresponding pre-immune sera. The limit of detection was a titer of 8 for the
rabbit sera. Sera that were negative against the assay strain at the starting dilution
were assigned a titer of one half the limit of detection for the assay (i.e. 4 for the
rabbit).
Flow Cytometry
MnB cells were grown to an OD650 of 0.45-0.55 and subsequently fixed in
1% (v/v) paraformaldehyde in 1 PBS for lOmin. One hundred microliters/well of
bacteria were plated into 96-well U-bottom polystyrene plates, spun down and
washed once in 1% (w/v) BSA in l PBS. Anti-LP2086 monoclonal antibodies
were added to the bacterial pellets, resuspended and incubated on ice for 30min.
After two washes in 1% BSA/PBS, biotinylated goat anti-mouse IgG (subclasses
1 + 2a + 2b + 3) (Jackson Immunoresearch) was added to the cell pellets,
resuspended and incubated on ice for 30min. The cells were washed twice and
resuspended in streptavidin-PE (BD Biosciences) and incubated on ice for 30min.
After two washes in 1% BSA/PBS, the cell pellets were resuspended in 1%
paraformaldehyde. Mouse IgG was included as a negative control. Twenty
thousand (20,000) events per well were acquired on a BD LSR II flow cytometer
and analyzed using FlowJo v7 software (Treestar, Ashland, Oregon). The mean
fluorescence intensity (MFI) of the PE channel was determined for each sample
after gating on bacterial cells in the logarithmic FSC versus SSC dot plot. An MFI
was considered positive if the MFI was three times that of the control mouse IgG
MFI.
Example 2 : Polysorbate 80 Binding to rLP2086 Proteins
[0148] To understand the stability of Polysorbate 80 binding to each rLP2086
protein A and B, a rLP2086 formulated sample with 200 mg/mL Subfamily A with
aluminum (Al) and another rLP2086 sample formulated with 200 mg/mL
Subfamily B both stored at 2-8°C and 25°C were tested 5 months later for their
protein and Polysorbate 80 content. A placebo (buffer + Al without protein) was
also analyzed. The Polysorbate 80 distribution in the Placebo is shown in Figure
14 , while the Polysorbate 80 distributions for Subfamily A and B proteins are
shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16, respectively. The Relative Potency (%) for
Subfamily B was compared to the Bound Molar Ratio as shown in Figure 17.
Results
[0149] As shown in Figure 14, the total % Polysorbate 80 and the % Polysorbate
80 in the supernatant were the same (0.017%), which indicates that Polysorbate 80
did not bind to the aluminum or get trapped in the pellet. In addition, Polysorbate
80 was stable after 5 months at both 2-8°C and 25°C.
[0150] The distribution of Polysorbate 80 in the bound (pellet), unbound
(supernatant) and total of rLP2086 Subfamily A and Subfamily B samples are
shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16, respectively. While the % Polysorbate 80 in the
supernatant and pellet for Subfamily A at 2-8°C and 25°C at 5 months time point
did not changed. More Polysorbate 80 was observed, however, in the pellet for
Subfamily B sample at 25°C at 5 months time point. Despite the different
concentrations of Polysorbate 80 in the supernatant and pellet at 2-8 °C and 25°C,
an accurate mass balance was achieved for both Subfamilies. As rLP2086 proteins
bind 100% to aluminum phosphate at this matrix, Polysorbate 80 associated in the
pellet was most likely bound to the protein molecules.
[0151] While both protein A and B bound to Polysorbate 80, protein A binding
was the same for samples stored at 2-8°C and 25°C, and protein B binding was
almost double for samples stored at 25°C compared to samples stored at 2-8°C.
The Relative Potency for Subfamily B was determined at both 2-8°C and 25°C at
T0 and 5 months time points and was found to behave inversely to the Bound
Molar Ratio as described in Figure 17. The % Potency dropped from 120 at Toto
16% at 5M/25°C, while the Bound Molar Ratio increased from 5.3 to 13.9 in the
same time period.
Example 3: Critical Molar Ratio Study
[0152] To determine the critical concentration of Polysorbate 80 required for
rLP2086 stability, forty (40) rLP2086 formulations were prepared containing
Subfamily A only, Subfamily B only, and both Subfamily A and B at 200 mg/mL
and 400 mg/mL with different Polysorbate 80 concentrations as described in Table
1. The total and bound proteins were determined for each sample as well as the %
Polysorbate 80 in the total, supernatant and pellet at time zero (To), 14 days, and 1
Month at both 2-8°C and 25°C. The results from this study are shown in Figure 18
to Figure 24 .
Total
Protein
Protein % Polysorbate 80
Subfamily
Antigen
0 Placebo 0.003 X 0.005 X X X 0.02
200 A X 0.004 0.005 0.006 0.008 0.01 0.02
200 B 0.003 0.004 0.005 0.006 0.008 0.01 0.02
400 A+B X X X 0.007 X 0.01 0.02
400 A X X X 0.007 X 0.01 0.02
400 B X X X 0.007 X 0.01 0.02
Table 1
Results
[0153] The Polysorbate 80 concentrations in the supernatant, pellet, and total were
determined for all 40 rLP2086 formulation samples with aluminum phosphate.
The Total and Bound Molar Ratios were determined for both Subfamily A and B
and appear to be similar for both Subfamilies @ 200 m h containing 0.005%
Polysorbate 80 (5.4 Molar ratio) or less as shown in Figure 18 and Figure 19,
respectively. The Total Molar Ratio for Subfamily B, however, was much higher
than the Bound Molar Ratio for samples containing 0.0065% Polysorbate 80 (7.0
Molar ratio) or more. The data for Total and Bound Molar Ratios for Subfamily A,
Subfamily B, and Subfamily A+B at 400 mg/mL each were also close for the
formulations containing 0.008% Polysorbate 80 (8.6 Molar ratio) or less, however,
the Total Molar Ratio was much higher than the Bound Molar Ratio for
formulations containing 0.017% Polysorbate 80 (18.4 Molar ratio) as described in
Figure 20.
Example 4: Polysorbate 80 Binding Over Time
[0154] The percentage (%) Polysorbate 80 in the Supernatant and Pellet for
Subfamily A and B formulation samples with AIPO4 was determined at To, 14
Days/25 °C, 1 Month/4°C, and 1 Month/25°C. The % Polysorbate 80 in
Supernatant for both Subfamily A and B formulation samples was relatively the
same for samples stored at 2-8°C. The % Polysorbate 80 in the supernatant,
however, decreased dramatically for samples stored at 25°C even after only 14
days. The % Polysorbate 80 in Pellet for both Subfamily A and B were relatively
similar at To/5°C and 1 Month/5°C C. The % Polysorbate in the supernatant,
however, increased significantly for the samples stored at 25°C, especially for
Subfamily B containing 0.008% Polysorbate 80 (8.6 Molar ratio) or higher. The %
Polysorbate 80 was also determined in the Supernatant and Pellet for rLP2086
Subfamily A and B formulations with A1P04 at T0, 14 Days/25°C, 1 Month/4°C,
and 1 Month/25°C. As shown in Figure 21, the Polysorbate 80 concentrations for
samples containing 0.008% were approximately the same for all 4 time points.
The Polysorbate 80 concentrations, however, increased for the sample containing
0.017% Polysorbate 80 stored at 25°C. No Polysorbate 80 was found in the
supernatant of samples containing 0.008% Polysorbate 80 or less. As shown in
Figure 22, the Bound Molar Ratio was stable for samples containing 0.008%
Polysorbate 80 or less at all 4 time points. The Bound Molar Ratio, however,
increased for the sample containing 0.017% Polysorbate 80 stored at 25°C.
[0155] The Potency for Subfamily A and B formulation samples with AIPO4 was
determined at T0 and 14 Days/25°C (Figure 23 and Figure 25, respectively). As
described in Figure 23, the Potency for Subfamily A at different total molar ratios
ranged from 9 1 to 102 at both 5°C and 25°C. While the Bound Molar Ratio results
were also relatively the same at either temperature, a slight increase in the Potency
was seen as the total/Bound Molar Ratio increased.
[0156] The Potency for Subfamily B for the 5°C samples was about 95% for total
molar ratios up to 9.0. The Subfamily B potency, however, decreased to 79% as
the total molar ratio increased to 18.1. Further, the sample with Total molar ratio
at 18.1 had higher bound molar ratio compared to the other sample. At 25°C, the
Subfamily B Potency exhibited a significant drop from 83% to 5% as the total
molar ratio increased from 5.3 to 18.1. The bound molar ratio values for the 25°C
samples increased from 5.3 to 13.8 as the total molar ratio increased. Thus, the
Potency for Subfamily B is inversely proportional to the Bound Molar Ratio.
[0157] Both Subfamily A and Subfamily B proteins bound to Polysorbate 80.
Subfamily A binding was the same for samples stored at 2-8°C and 25°C, but
Subfamily B binding was almost double for samples stored at 25°C. Further, the
Critical Molar Ratio Study indicated that the 200 mg/mL formulation samples were
stable when containing 0.008% Polysorbate 80 or less, which is equivalent to a
Total Molar Ratio of 4.2 or less.
Example 5 : Detergent concentration and rLP2086 Subfamily B Antigen
Potency
[0158] Additional stability studies with varying concentrations of Polysorbate 80
corroborated the criticality of the molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein for
maintaining potency. In one experiment, the immunogenic composition was
formulated at the 200 mg dosage (total protein concentration 400 mg mL) at pH 6.3
in 10 mM histidine buffered saline (HBS) with 0.5 mg/niL aluminum (as
aluminum phosphate) and spiked with 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.05% or 0.1% Polysorbate
80 (corresponding molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to rLP2086 protein at 5.3, 10.7,
26.7 and 53.4). The formulated samples were incubated at 25°C and control
samples were stored at 2-8°C. There was no significant change in potency at time
"0" at Polysorbate 80 concentrations up to 0.1%. For longer periods at 2-8°C and
25°C, however, a reduction in potency was observed as a function of temperature
and Polysorbate 80 concentration. As the concentration of Polysorbate 80 was
increased from 0.01% to 0.1% in the immunogenic composition, the 3-month
stability point demonstrated a reduction in potency of the Subfamily B protein to
less than 10% and 25% at 25°C and 2-8°C, respectively (Figure 1).
[0159] An additional stability study (Figure 2) was performed evaluating the
Subfamily B protein at a concentration of 4 mg/niL in HBS and spiked with
Polysorbate 80 to a final concentration of 0.06, 0.5 and 1% (corresponding molar
ratios of 3.3, 26.7 and 53.4). The control contained 0.09% Polysorbate 80.The
Subfamily B protein in 0.06% Polysorbate 80 (molar ratio of 3.3) was stable. The
same samples containing increased concentration of Polysorbate 80 to 0.5% and
1% (molar ratios 26.7 and 53.4 respectively) were unstable. For 400 mg/mL
immunogenic composition formulations, instability of Subfamily B protein was
noted in all formulations containing 0.01% Polysorbate 80 concentration (5.3
molar ratio) or higher. At 4 mg/niL protein and 0.06% Polysorbate 80
concentrations, however, there was no reduction in potency because the ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein (3.3) is lower than that at 400 mg/mL protein plus 0.01%
Polysorbate 80 concentrations (molar ratio 5.3). The reduction in potency of
Subfamily B protein by Polysorbate 80 is thus correlated to the molar ratio of the
Polysorbate 80 detergent to protein and not to the absolute concentration of
Polysorbate 80 in the matrix.
[0160] Accordingly, Polysorbate 80 concentration must be reduced in the
immunogenic composition in order to maintain the stability of the Subfamily B
protein in the vaccine and during subsequent storage at 2-8°C. An accelerated
28-day stability study was designed for the immunogenic composition with
varying molar ratios of Polysorbate 80 (0, 1.1, 2.7 and 5.3) at 20 and 200 mg
dosages (Figure 3 and Figure 4). A bivalent (Subfamily A and Subfamily B)
formulation was prepared in 10 mM histidine buffered saline pH 6.0, 0.5 mg/niL
aluminum as aluminum phosphate with various Polysorbate 80 concentrations.
Samples were incubated at 25°C along with a 2-8°C control group. Samples were
analyzed for potency at 0, 7, 14 and 28 days. Both Subfamily A (data not shown)
and B proteins were stable for all groups containing less than a 5.3 molar ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein. A potency value of greater than 80% is considered to be
within the assay variability. At the 5.3 molar ratio, a decreasing trend for the
Subfamily B protein potency was observed for 25°C samples.
[0161] A comprehensive study evaluated all the potential clinical dosages (20,
60, 120 and 200 mg dosage) formulated with varying Polysorbate 80-to-protein
molar ratios under accelerated storage stability conditions to investigate the effects
of Polysorbate 80-to-protein molar ratios on the stability of MnB rLP2086
proteins. Bivalent MnB rLP2086 immunogenic compositions formulated at
Polysorbate 80-to-protein molar ratios ranging from approximately 1.4 to 10.7
were used. To generate immunogenic compositions formulated at increasing
Polysorbate 80-to-protein molar ratios (1.4, 2.4, 3.4, 3.9, 4.3, 4.7 and 10.7),
antigens were adjusted to variable molar ratios by adding Polysorbate 80 such that
during immunogenic composition formulation, additional Polysorbate 80 was not
needed. There were two sets of antigen lots used in this study. One set of
Subfamily A and B lots were generated with a Polysorbate 80-to-protein molar
ratio of 1.4 and the other set at 2.4. The set of proteins with a molar ratio of 2.4
was used to adjust the molar ratios of 3.4, 3.9, 4.3, and 10.7 by spiking with
additional Polysorbate 80. The final matrix of immunogenic composition was 10
niM histidine, 150 niM NaCl, pH 6.0, 0.5 mg/niL aluminum phosphate with the
Polysorbate 80-to-protein molar ratios mentioned above. After storage at 2-8°C or
25°C for specific intervals, gentle mixing was applied with a rocker 24 hours prior
to testing. Total protein by IEX-HPLC, potency, appearance, optical density at
320nm of the supernatant fraction and pH were tested.
[0162] Potency results of 200 and 20 mg doses are shown in Figure 5 and Figure
6, respectively. The potency assay was more sensitive than other tests used in the
study. Overall, there was no significant reduction in potency observed either for
Subfamily A or B antigens as compared to the initial time point for all dosages
with molar ratios of 4.3 and lower. Formulations with a molar ratio of 4.7 were
considered at marginal due to a slight reduction in potency for Subfamily B
proteins stored at 25°C. The potency results for Subfamily B antigen for
formulations at a molar ratio of 10.7 were significantly lower for samples stored at
25°C than those stored at 2-8°C.
Example 6 : Aluminum concentration and rLP2086 Subfamily A and B
Antigen Potency
[0163] A number of experiments were conducted to determine the optimal level
of aluminum phosphate to ensure greater than 95% binding of both Subfamily A
and B proteins. Initial studies focused on optimization of the formulation at pH
6.5. Formulations were prepared with a target dosage of 200 mg/mL of each
protein from Subfamily A and B proteins in 10 mM histidine buffer at pH 6.5 with
0.02% Polysorbate 80 and either 0.25 or 0.5 mg/ mL aluminum (as aluminum
phosphate). Subfamily B protein bound to aluminum phosphate to a lesser extent
than did Subfamily A protein (Figure 7). Increasing the aluminum content from
0.25 mg/niL to 0.5 mg/niL increased binding of Subfamily B protein to >80%.
Since the binding mechanism between protein and aluminum suspension is mostly
an ionic interaction, the pH of the suspension is a factor that influences binding.
[0164] The formulation pH was optimized to ensure greater than 90-95% binding
of the Subfamily B protein. Multiple formulations at 200 mg/mL of each A and B
proteins with pH ranging from 5.6 through 6.5 with different lots of immunogenic
compositions were examined (Figure 8). Greater than 90-95% binding of both
proteins occurred at formulations with pH ranging from 5.6 to 6.4. As the pH of
the formulations increased to 6.5 and above, the binding of Subfamily B protein
was significantly reduced. The recommended target pH is 6.0 to ensure greater
than 90% binding of both Subfamily A and B proteins.
[0165] The robustness of the formulation under formulation variables and/or
limits by varying the pH, buffer, protein, and Polysorbate 80 concentrations was
also evaluated (Figure 9). While the binding of Subfamily A protein was
consistently high (>95%) with total protein concentration up to 500 mg/mL (250
mg/mL each protein), Subfamily B protein binding was more sensitive to protein
concentration and pH. As commercial formulations at a 200 mg dosage are used,
the results from this experiment further supported the recommended formulation at
a pH of 6.0 with 0.5 mg/niL aluminum phosphate.
[0166] Formulations with and without aluminum phosphate were evaluated to
investigate the feasibility of providing a stable formulation without aluminum
phosphate at concentrations of Polysorbate 80 low enough for Subfamily B protein
stability. Immunogenic compositions were formulated at 20 and 200 mg dosages in
histidine buffered saline buffer with Polysorbate 80 concentration ranging from 0
to 5.3 molar ratios. Half of the samples were subjected to agitation with a digital
multi-tube vortexer set at 500 rpm under pulse mode (2 seconds on and one second
off) for 24 hours prior to testing. This condition was adopted to simulate the ISTA
tests (International Safe Transit Association) typically performed at the final
immunogenic composition shipping package stage to mimic extreme vibrations
during shipping conditions.
[0167] With agitation, formulations without aluminum phosphate precipitated
which eventually led to potency loss of both Subfamily A and B antigens. An
appearance test (Figure 10) and absorbance measurements at l = 320 nm (Figure
11) demonstrated the formation of aggregates and/or precipitates when
formulations without aluminum phosphate were agitated. Potency testing of these
samples (Figure 12 and Figure 13) demonstrated significant loss of potency for
both Subfamily A and B proteins at all time points tested. The loss of potency was
most pronounced in formulations containing low amounts of Polysorbate 80.
Since low amounts of Polysorbate 80 are necessary to maintain Subfamily B
protein stabilization, the inclusion of aluminum phosphate in the formulation is
required to preserve stability. rLP2086 immunogenic compositions may be
formulated with aluminum phosphate, which will function to enhance potency
stability as measured by the in vitro potency assay.
Example 7 : Succinate and Histidine as Buffers
[0168] A series of formulations were prepared to compare binding of rLP2086
Subfamily A and B proteins in succinate and histidine, as well as effects of pH,
Polysorbate 80, and MgC12 on binding (Table 2). The robustness of the
formulation under formulation variables and or limits by varying the pH, buffer,
protein, and polysorbate concentrations was evaluated (Figure 25 and 26). The
binding of aluminum to Subfamily A and Subfamily B protein was similar
regardless of the buffer (histidine or succinate) used.
Table 2 : Formulations to Evaluate Histidine and Succinate buffers, MgCh,
Polysorbate 80, and pH 5.6 - 6.0 on Binding of rLP2086 with AIPO4 1
rLP2086 rLP2086
Histidine Succinate PS 80 A B Saline MgCl Target pH
(niM) (mM) (%) (%) (mM)
200 200 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 5.8
200 200 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 5.6
200 200 0 5 0.010 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 0 5 0.005 0.9 0 6.0
250 250 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
250 250 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 5.8
250 250 0 5 0.020 0.9 0 5.6
200 200 0 10 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 0 20 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 0 5 0.020 0.9 10 6.0
200 200 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 5.8
200 200 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 5.6
200 200 10 0 0.010 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 10 0 0.005 0.9 0 6.0
250 250 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
250 250 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 5.8
250 250 10 0 0.020 0.9 0 5.6
200 200 5 0 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 20 0 0.020 0.9 0 6.0
200 200 10 0 0.020 0.9 10 6.0
All formulations described in Table 2 contain 0.5 mg Al/mL.
[0169] The effect of buffer salt and mixing time on aluminum binding were
evaluated with three commonly used buffer salts, chosen because their pKa's are in
the physiologic range and because these salts are generally regarded as safe.
rLP2086 Subfamily A and B proteins were formulated with one of the three buffer
salts: 5 mM succinate, 10 mM histidine, or 10 mM phosphate at a pH suitable for
the pKa of each salt to determine the extent of binding at each condition. The time
required for binding to reach completion was evaluated by allowing the samples to
mix for either 5 or 120 min before measuring the amount of protein bound.
[0170] As shown in Figure 27, Subfamily B protein exhibited reduced binding at
pH 6.8 in phosphate buffer, while Subfamily A protein was not significantly
affected at the same conditions. The amount of protein bound to aluminum was
similar in samples formulated with histidine or succinate. Thus, these two buffer
salts were chosen for further evaluation. While not wishing to be bound by theory,
it is possible that the reduced binding in phosphate buffer results from competition
for binding sites on AIPO4 with the added phosphate ions.
[0171] At these conditions and concentrations of protein and AIPO4, binding was
complete after 5 min of mixing at room temperature as similar results were
obtained after mixing for 2 hours.
[0172] To further examine whether the reduced binding of Subfamily B protein
in phosphate buffer at pH 6.8 was due to pH or differences between buffer salts,
binding was measured over a pH range of 5.3 to 7.0 in either histidine- or
succinate-buffered formulations. Bivalent formulations were prepared containing
0.2 mg/niL of each subfamily protein (0.4 mg/niL total protein), 0.02% PS80, 0.5
mg Al/mL, and 150 mMNaCl. Samples were formulated in either 10 mM
histidine or 5 mM succinate to compare the effect of buffer salt. After formulation,
the pH of each sample was individually verified.
[0173] The binding profile from pH 5.3 to 7.0 is shown for Subfamily A protein
in Figure 28 and for Subfamily B protein in Figure 28. Subfamily A protein
exhibited little change in the amount of protein bound, with binding remaining
above 95% across the pH range tested. A formulation containing histidine with a
target pH 7.0 resulted in a pH of 6.8. The pH was not adjusted to 7.0 (e.g. by
addition of base) to avoid possible effects on the protein or AIPO4 and results for
this datapoint are therefore not available.
[0174] The binding profile of Subfamily B protein (shown in Figure 29)
exhibited a pH-dependent trend. Whether binding was performed in histidine or
succinate buffered formulations, however, the amount of protein bound to
aluminum was similar. Binding was dependent on the pH of the formulation rather
than the buffering salt. Binding remained at 95% up to pH 6.5 (94% in histidine,
95% in succinate), but decreased when pH was greater than 6.5. At pH 7.0, binding
decreased to about 82%, with minor differences between buffering salts.
[0175] To obtain robust binding of Subfamily B protein with A1P04 at these
concentrations, a pH of 6.5 or less is preferred.
Example 8 : Safety, Tolerability And Immunogenecity Study
[0176] A study is conducted to assess the safety, tolerability, and
immunogenicity of rLP2086 vaccine administered in a healthy adolescent
population, according to regimens of either 0 and 2 months; 0, 2, and 6 months; 0
and 2 months followed by a 12-month booster dose.
[0177] The immunogenic composition is a rLP2086 vaccine (recombinant
lipidated). The immunogenic composition includes a N. meningitidis serogroup B
recombinant ORF2086 protein that was expressed in Escherichia coli and
formulated in a bivalent vaccine composed of one subfamily A strain and one
subfamily B strain of rLP2086. In particular, the immunogenic composition is a
0.5 mL dose formulated to contain 60 mg, 120 mg, or 200 mg each of a purified
subfamily A and a purified subfamily B rLP2086 protein, a 2.8 molar ratio of
polysorbate 80, and 0.25 mg of Al + as AIPO4, 10 mM histidine-buffered saline at
pH 6.0. A control composition includes a normal saline solution (0.9% sodium
chloride) in a 0.5 mL dose.
[0178] Subjects are randomly assigned to 5 groups. See Table 3. The subjects
are stratified into two age groups, > 11to <14 and >14 to <19 years of age.
Table 3: Study Design
Vaccinat Vaccinat Post Vaccinat Post Vaccinat Postion
ion vaccinal ion vaccinal ion vaccinat
1 2 ion 2 3 ion 3 4 ion 4
Blood Blood Blood
draw draw Draw
Visit 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
number
Approxi 0 2 3 6 7 12 13
mate
month
Group 1 rLP2086 rLP2086 Saline Saline
Group 2 rLP2086 rLP2086 rLP2086 Saline
Group 3 rLP2086 rLP2086 Saline rLP2086
Group 4 rLP2086 Saline rLP2086 Saline
Group 5 Saline Saline rLP2086 rLP2086
Blood 20 mL 20 mL 20 mL 20 mL 20 mL
Draw
[0179] Saline is used as a placebo because there is no proven safe, immunogenic,
and effective vaccine against MnB that could serve as an active control.
[0180] Subjects receive one dose of rLP2086 vaccine or saline at each of the
vaccination visits (e.g., visits 1, 2, 4, and 6) according to Table 3. Standard
vaccination practices are observed and the vaccine is not injected into blood
vessels. The rLP2086 vaccine is administered intramuscularly by injecting 0.5 mL
into the upper deltoid muscle. Saline is administered intramuscularly into the
upper deltoid muscle.
A. Visit 1
On Visit 1, day 1, vaccination 1, the subject first has blood drawn and then
receives a vaccination. The visit 1 blood draw and vaccination 1 occurs on the
same day. Before vaccination, a blood sample (approximately 20 mL) from the
subject is collected. For subjects randomized to group 1, 2, 3, and 4, a single 0.5-
niL intramuscular injection of rLP2086 vaccine is administered into the upper
deltoid muscle. For subjects in group 5, a single 0.5-mL intramuscular injection of
saline is administered into the upper deltoid muscle.
B. Visit 2 (42 to 70 days after Visit 1), Vaccination 2
For groups 1, 2, and 3, a single 0.5-mL intramuscular injection of rLP2086
vaccine is administered into the upper deltoid muscle. For groups 4 and 5, a single
0.5-mL intramuscular injection of saline is administered into the upper deltoid
muscle.
C. Visit 3 (28 to 42 days after Visit 2), Post vaccination 2 Blood Draw
A blood sample (approximately 20 mL) from the subject is collected.
D. Visit 4 (105 to 126 days after Visit 2), Vaccination 3
For groups 2, 4, and 5, a single 0.5-mL intramuscular injection of rLP2086
vaccine is administered into the upper deltoid muscle. For groups 1 and 3, a single
0.5-mL intramuscular injection of saline is administered into the upper deltoid
muscle.
E. Visit 5 (28 to 42 days after Visit 4), Post vaccination 3 Blood Draw
A blood sample (approximately 20 mL) from the subject is collected.
F. Visit 6 (161 to 175 days after Visit 4), Vaccination 4
At visit 6, the subject first has blood drawn and then receives a vaccination.
The visit 6 blood draw and vaccination 4 occurs on the same day. Before
vaccination, a blood sample (approximately 20 mL) from the subject is collected.
For groups 3 and 5, a single 0.5-mL intramuscular injection of rLP2086 vaccine is
administered into the upper deltoid muscle. For subjects in groups 1, 2, and 4, a
single 0.5-mL intramuscular injection of saline is administered into the upper
deltoid muscle.
G. Visit 7 (28 to 42 days after Visit 6), Post vaccination 4 Blood Draw
A blood sample (approximately 20 mL) from the subject is collected.
Immunogenicity Results
[0181] The primary objective of this study was to assess the immunogenicity of
60 mg, 120 mg, and 200 mg rLP2086 vaccine as measured by SBA performed with
MnB strains expressing LP2086 subfamily A and B proteins.
[0182] The secondary objective of this study was to assess the immunogenicity
of 60 mg, 1 0 mg, and 200 mg rLP2086 vaccine as determined by quantitation of Ig
binding to rLP2086 vaccine subfamily A and B proteins.
[0183] SBA activity was assessed using 3 subfamily A and 3 subfamily B strains
as shown in Table 4.
Table 4: Analysis of Subjects Achieving SBA Titer of Fold Rise >4 From
Predose 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Randomized Vaccine
Strain Group n (%) (95%CI ) p-Value
month postdose 2
bfamily A Strain 1 Control 80 1 (1.3) (0.0, 6.8) >0.9999
60 m rLP2086 Vaccine 18 16 (88.9) (65.3, 98.6) 0.0007
120 m rLP2086 Vaccine 115 96 (83.5) (75.4, 89.7) <0.0001
200 m rLP2086 Vaccine 106 93 (87.7) (79.9, 93.3) <0.0001
bfamily B Strain 1 Control 84 0 (0.0) (0.0, 4.3) >0.9999
60 m rLP2086 Vaccine 2 1 15 (71.4) (47.8, 88.7) 0.0392
120 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 121 72 (59.5) (50.2, 68.3) 0.0225
200 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 114 68 (59.6) (50.1, 68.7) 0.0244
month postdose 3
bfamily A Strain 1 Control 73 4 (5.5) (1.5, 13.4) >0.9999
60 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 19 17 (89.5) (66.9, 98.7) 0.0004
120 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 111 103 (92.8) (86.3, 96.8) <0.0001
200 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 100 94 (94.0) (87.4, 97.8) <0.0001
bfamily B Strain 1 Control 79 1 (1.3) (0.0, 6.9) >0.9999
60 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 2 1 17 (81.0) (58.1, 94.6) 0.0036
120 mg rLP2086 Vaccine 112 97 (86.6) (78.9, 92.3) <0.0001
200 g rLP2086 Vaccine 105 89 (84.8) (76.4, 91.0) <0.0001
)breviation: CI = confidence interval; SBA = serum bactericidal assay.
rte: The assay validation supports a lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) of Subfamily A strain 1 = 9 and
bfamily B Strain 1 = 10. SBA titers above the LLOQ are considered accurate and their quantitated
lues will be reported. Values below the LLOQ or denoted as below LLOQ will be set to 0.5*LLOQ for
alysis.
184] The proportions of subjects with titers achieving a defined level are presented in Table
For both subfamilies, the proportions of subjects achieving defined SBA titer levels were
sater at postdose 3 than at postdose 2.
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 120 200
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer n % n % (95% CI )
Subfamily A (5.3,
Predose 1 32 64 7 10.9 15 0 0.0 (0.2, 35.8) 90 9 10.0 (5.3, 18.1) 92 1 1 12.0 (6.7, 20.3)
Strain 2 21.2)
(0.8,
64 64 2 3.1 15 0 0.0 (0.2, 35.8) 90 7 7.8 (3.8, 15.4) 92 5 5.4 (2.3, 12.4)
11.7)
(0.0,
128 64 0 0.0 15 0 0.0 (0.2, 35.8) 90 1 1.1 (0.2, 7.5) 92 0 0.0 (0.0, 8.0)
11.2)
(1.4, (72.9, (84.6,
1-month postdose 2 32 69 3 4.3 2 1 20 95.2 115 113 98.3 115 105 91.3
12.6) 99.3) 95.3)
(63.9, (63.3,
64 69 1 1.4 115 95 82.6 115 83 72.2
95.3) 79.6)
(31.8, (33.9,
128 69 1 1.4 115 5 1 44.3 115 49 42.6
72.1) 51.8)
(3.7, (70.6, (93.1, (93.2,
1-month postdose 3 32 57 5 8.8 19 18 94.7 108 108 100.0 99 98 99.0
19.4) 99.3) 100.0) 99.9)
64 57 3 5.3 (1.7, (70.6, (83.4,
19 18 94.7 108 103 95.4 99 90 90.9
15.1) 99.3) 95.2)
(0.9, (45.2, (57.9,
128 57 2 3.5 19 13 68.4 108 73 67.6 99 67 67.7
13.0) 85.1) 76.1)
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 120 200
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % n % (95% CI )
Subfamily A Predose 1 16 8 1 10 12.3 2 1 1 4.8 (0.7, 27.1) 122 11 9.0 (5.1 , 15.6) 114 7 6.1 (3.0, 12.3)
Strain 1 2 1.4)
(3.4,
32 8 1 6 7.4 2 1 1 4.8 (0.7, 27.1) 122 7 5.7 (2.8, 11.5) 114 5 4.4 ( 1.8, 10.1)
15.5)
64 8 1 4 4.9 ( 1.9, 2 1 0 0.0 (0.1, 28.2) 122 3 2.5 (0.8, 7.3) 114 2 1.8 (0.4, 6.7)
12.4)
128 8 1 1 1.2 3.2, 8.2 0 0.0 (0.1, 28.2) 122 1 0.8 (0. 1, 5.6) 114 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.6)
(3.3, (64.8, (83.9,
1-month postdose 2 16 83 6 7.2 18 16 88.9 118 105 89.0 (81 .9, 93.5) 110 100 90.9
15.2) 97.2) 95.0)
( 1.2, (64.8, (73.5,
32 83 3 3.6 18 16 88.9 118 10 1 85.6 (78.0, 90.9) 110 90 81.8 10.6) 97.2) 88.0)
(59.1 , (55.2,
64 83 1 1.2 15 83.3 118 70 59.3 (50.2, 67.8) 110 7 1 64.5
94.5) 72.9)
(15.8, (3 1.3,
128 83 0 0.0 6 33.3 118 33 28.0 (20.6, 36.7) 110 44 40.0
57.1) 49.4)
(6.3, (67.6, (90.2,
1-month postdose 3 16 76 9 11.8 20 18 90.0 114 110 96.5 (91 .0, 98.7) 104 100 96.2
2 1.2) 97.5) 98.5)
(3.6, (67.6, (89.0,
32 76 6 7.9 20 18 90.0 114 108 94.7 (88.8, 97.6) 104 99 95.2
16.5) 97.5) 98.0)
( 1.3, (62.4, (79.7,
64 76 3 3.9 20 17 85.0 114 102 89.5 (82.4, 93.9) 104 9 1 87.5
11.5) 95.1) 92.6)
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 mg 120 mg 200
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI )
(21 .4, (50.9,
128 76 1 1.3 (0.2, 8.8) 20 8 40.0 114 78 68.4 (59.3, 76.3) 104 63 60.6
62.0) 69.5)
Subfamily Strain 3 A Predose 1 16 80 8 10.0 1(58..17), 2 1 1 4.8 (0.7, 27.1) 119 9 7.6 (4.0, 13.9) 115 7 6.1 (2.9, 12.2)
(3.4,
32 80 6 7.5 2 1 1 4.8 (0.7, 27.1) 119 6 5.0 (2.3, 10.8) 115 5 4.3 ( 1.8, 10.0)
15.7)
64 2.5 (0.6, 9.4) 2 1 0 0.0 (0.1, 28.2) 119 1 0.8 (0. 1, 5.7) 115 4 3.5 ( 1.3, 8.9)
128 1.3 (0.2, 8.3) 2 1 0 0.0 (0.1, 28.2) 119 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.3) 115 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.5)
(6.8, (62.4, (90.5,
1-month postdose 2 16 8 1 10 12.3 20 17 85.0 117 111 94.9 (89. 1, 97.7) 107 103 96.3
2 1.4) 95.1) 98.6)
(5.9, (62.4, (81 .3,
32 8 1 9 11. 1 20 17 85.0 117 106 90.6 (83.8, 94.7) 107 95 88.8
20.0) 95.1) 93.5)
(5.0, (57.2, (61 .8,
64 8 1 8 9.9 20 16 80.0 117 94 80.3 (72.1, 86.6) 107 76 71.0
18.5) 92.3) 78.8)
(25.3, (36.6,
128 8 1 2 2.5 20 9 45.0 117 46 39.3 (30.9, 48.4) 107 49 45.8
66.4) 55.3)
(6.1 , (72.9, (89.7,
1-month postdose 3 16 78 9 11.5 2 1 20 95.2 114 111 97.4 (92.2, 99.1) 112 107 95.5
20.7) 99.3) 98.1)
(4.3, (63.9, (87.5,
32 78 7 9.0 2 1 18 85.7 114 107 93.9 (87.7, 97.0) 112 105 93.8
17.6) 95.3) 97.0)
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 mg 120 mg 200 mg
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI )
( 1 .2, (49.2, (76.9,
6 4 7 8 3 3.8 2211 1 5 7711 ..44 1 12 9 5 84.8
1 1 .3) 86.6) 90.4)
(40.2, (57.8,
128 7 8 2 2.6 2 1 1 3 6 1 .9 1 14 8 5 74.6 1 12 7 5 67.0
79.7) 75.0)
Subfamily B 1 6 g 4 3 ( 1 .
Predose 1 16 8 4 3 3.6 2 2 0 0.0 124 2 1 .6 1 1 8 3 2.5 (0.8, 7.6)
Strain 1 10.5)
3 2 84 1 1 .2 2 2 0 0.0 124 1 0.8 1 1 8 2 1 .7 (0.4, 6.5)
6 4 84 0 0.0 2 2 0 0.0 124 1 0.8 1 1 8 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.4)
128 84 0 0.0 2 2 0 0.0 124 1 0.8 1 1 8 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.4)
(54.0, (56.6,
1-month postdose 2 16 8 4 1 1 .2 2 1 16 76.2 122 8 4 68.9 1 14 7 5 65.8
89.7) 73.9)
(36.0, (39.2,
3 2 84 0 0.0 2 1 12 57. 1 122 5 6 45.9 1 14 5 5 48.2
76.0) 57.4)
(24.0, ( 1 5.3,
6 4 8 4 0 0.0 2 1 9 42.9 122 3 1 25.4 1 14 2 5 2 1 .9
64.0) 30.4)
128 8844 0 00..00 (0.0, 8.8) 2211 3 1144..33 (4.7, 36.1) 112222 9 77..44 (3.9, 13.6) 1 1144 1 0 8.8 (4.8, 15.5)
( 1 .2, (63.9, (77.6,
1-month postdose 3 16 7 9 3 3.8 2211 1 8 8855..77 1 13 102 90.3 105 9 0 85.7
1 1 .1) 95.3) 9 1 .2)
(58.8, (70.2,
3 2 7 9 1 1 .3 2 1 17 8 1 .0 1 13 8 9 78.8 105 8 3 79.0
92.7) 85.8)
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 mg 120 mg 200 mg
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI )
6 4 7799 0 00..00 (0.0, 9.3) 2 1 1 2 57. 1
128 7799 0 00..00 (0.0, 9.3) 2 1 9 42.9
Subfamily B
Predose 1 1 6 8 3 2 2.4 1 1 8 3 2.5 1 1 7 3 2.6
Strain 2
3 2 8 3 2 2.4 1 1 8 3 2.5 1 1 7 3 2.6
6 4 8 3 1 1 .2 1 1 8 0 0.0 1 1 7 1 0.9
128 8 3 0 0.0 1 1 8 0 0.0 1 1 7 0 0.0
1 -month postdose 2 1 6 8 4 2 2.4 102 3 3 32.4 9 6 2 9 30.2
40.1)
(20.0,
3 2 8 4 2 2.4 102 3 1 30.4 9 6 2 7 28.1
37.9)
(13.0,
6 4 8 4 1 1 .2 102 2 3 22.5 9 6 19 19.8
29.0)
128 8 4 0 0.0 102 1 1 10.8 9 6 8 8 . 3 (4.2, 15.8)
(2.2, (29.3, (57.0,
1 -month postdose 3 1 6 6 8 4 5.9 1 5 53.3 8866 6655 7755..66 (65.4, 83.5) 8811 5555 6677..99
14.6) 75.9) 77.1)
( 1 .4, (29.3, (55.8,
3 2 6 8 3 4.4 1 5 53.3 8866 6655 7755..66 (65.4, 83.5) 8811 5544 6666..77
12.8) 75.9) 76.0)
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mITT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 mg 120 mg 200 mg
Sampling Time SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI )
(24.1 , (47.1,
6 4 6 8 1 1 .5 (0.2, 9.7) 1 5 7 46.7 8866 5522 6600..55 ((4499..88,, 7700..22)) 8811 4477 5588..00
70.7) 68.2)
(0.0, (10.4, (16.5,
128 6 8 0 0.0 1 5 4 26.7 8866 2244 2277..99 ((1199..55,, 3388..33)) 8811 2200 2244..77
10.6) 53.3) 35.2)
Subfamily B
Predose 1 8 8 1 2 2.5 (0.6, 9.3) 2 2 0 0.0 120 4 3.3 ( 1 .3, 8.5) 1 1 6 3 2.6
Strain 3
1 6 8 1 1 1 .2 (0.2, 8.2) 2 2 0 0.0 120 2 1 .7 (0.4, 6.4) 1 1 6 3 2.6
3 2 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9 . 1) 2 2 0 0.0 120 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.3) 1 1 6 2 1 .7
6 4 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9 . 1 ) 2 2 0 0.0 120 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.3) 1 1 6 1 0.9
128 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9 . 1) 2 2 0 0.0 120 0 0.0 (0.0, 6.3) 1 1 6 1 0.9
1 -month postdose 2 8 8 1 1 1 .2 (0.2, 8.2) 2 1 1 3 6 1 .9
1 6 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9.1) 2 1 1 3 6 1 .9
3 2 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9.1) 2 1 1 0 47.6
6 4 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9.1) 2 1 5 23.8
128 8 1 0 0.0 (0.0, 9.1) 2 1 0 0.0 1 1 5 7 6.1 (2.9, 12.2) 106 1 2 1 1 .3
1 -month postdose 3 8 8 3 4 4.8 ( 1 .8, 2 1 1 6 76.2 1 1 5 1 0 2 88.7 (81 .5, 93.3) 1 1 1 9 6 86.5
Table 5: Subjects Achieving Defined SBA Titer Levels in Stage 1 - mlTT Population (Study 6108A1-2001-WW/B1971005)
Vaccine Group (as Randomized)
rLP2086 Vaccine
Control 60 mg 120 mg
SBA (95%
Strain Point Titer N n % CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n % (95% CI ) N n
12. 1) 89.7) 9 1.7)
(54.0, (77.8,
16 83 1 1.2 (0.2, 8.1) 2 1 16 76.2 115 99 86.1 (78.5, 9 1.3) 111 95
89.7) 9 1.0)
(54.0, (71 .7,
32 83 0 0.0 (0.0, 8.9) 2 1 16 76.2 115 93 80.9 (72.6, 87.1) 111 89 89.7) 86.6)
(27.9, (5 1.9,
64 83 0 0.0 (0.0, 8.9) 2 1 10 47.6 115 62 53.9 (44.8, 62.8) 111 68
68.2) 69.9)
(13.4,
128 83 0 0.0 (0.0, 8.9) 2 1 2 9.5 (2.4, 31.1) 115 26 22.6 (15.9, 31.1) 111 22
28.3)
Abbreviations: CI = confidence interval; SBA = serum bactericidal assay; LLOQ = lower limit of quantitation.
Note: LLOQ for A/1 = 9, A/2 = 18, A/3= 12, B/l = 10, B/2 = 9, B/3 = 7.
[0185] The immunogenicity data show that the vaccine can generate antibodies
with significant SBA activity against subfamily A and subfamily B strains of MnB.
For Subfamily A Strain 2. after dose 2, SBA response rates ranged from 88.9% to
90.9% and after dose 3 the SBA response rates ranged from 90.0% to 97.4%. For
Subfamily A Strain 1variant, after both dose 2 and dose 3, 100.0% of the subjects
had SBA responses to this variant at both the 60^g and 120^g dose levels. At the
200^g dose level, 96.5% and 99.0% of the subjects had SBA responses after dose
2 and dose 3, respectively. For Subfamily A Strain 1 variant, the SBA response
rates ranged from 85.0% to 96.3% after dose 2 and from 95.2% to 97.4% after dose
3.
For Subfamily B Strain 1variant, after dose 2 the SBA response rates ranged from
76.2% to 81.0%, and after dose 3 the SBA response rates ranged from 89.5% to
92.0%. For Subfamily B Strain 2 variant after dose 2, the percentage of subjects
with SBA response rates ranged from 21.1% to 33.3%. However, after the third
dose, 53.3%, 75.6%, and 67.9% of the subjects had SBA responses at the 60^g,
120^g, and 200^g dose levels, respectively. For Subfamily B Strain 3 variant,
the SBA response rates ranged from 61.9% to 70.8% after dose 2 and from 76.2%
to 88.7% after dose 3.
Overall, a high proportion of subjects responded with an SBA titer >LLOQ
irrespective of the subfamily A or subfamily B strain tested. The hSBA data
showed robust immune responses at doses of 60 mg to 200 mg without a clear doseresponse
relationship. The frequency of response, irrespective of the analysis
examined, was highest numerically in the 120^g group. The 200^g group did not
have improved immune responses over the 120^g dose level.
What is Claimed is:
1. An immunogenic composition comprising a LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide formulated so that the potency of the LP2086 (fHBP)
Subfamily B polypeptide is stable over time.
2. An immunogenic composition comprising a detergent and a LP2086
(fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide at a detergent-to-protein molar ratio of less than
10:1.
3. The immunogenic composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least 50% of
the LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide potency is maintained for at least 1
month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months,
18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 42 months, 48 months, 54 months,
or 60 months. .
4. The immunogenic composition of any one of claims 1-3, further
comprising a LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A polypeptide.
5. The immunogenic composition of claim 1, further comprising a
detergent.
6. The immunogenic composition of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the
molar ratio of detergent to protein is between about 0.5: 1 and about 10:1.
7. The immunogenic composition of claim 6, wherein the molar ratio of
detergent to protein is between about 1:1 and about 5:1.
8. The immunogenic composition of claim 7, wherein the molar ratio of
detergent to protein is between about 1.4: 1 and about 4.2:1 .
9. The immunogenic composition of claim 8, wherein the molar ratio of
detergent to protein is about 2.8: 1.
10. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-9,
wherein the amount of detergent is sufficient to reduce polypeptide binding to
silicon in a container.
11. The immunogenic composition according to claim 10, wherein the
container is a syringe or a vial.
12. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-1 1,
wherein the detergent is a non-ionic detergent.
13. The immunogenic composition according to claim 12, wherein the
detergent is a polysorbate detergent.
14. The immunogenic composition according to claim 13, wherein the
detergent is Polysorbate 80.
15. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-14,
further comprising a multivalent cation.
16. The immunogenic composition according to claim 15, wherein the
multivalent cation is calcium or aluminum.
17. The immunogenic composition according to claim 16, wherein the
immunogenic composition comprises (Ca)3(P0 4)2.
18. The immunogenic composition according to claim 16, wherein the
concentration of aluminum is between about 0.1 mg/ml and about 1 mg/ml.
19. The immunogenic composition according to claim 18, wherein the
concentration of aluminum is about 0.5 mg/ml.
20. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 16-19,
wherein the composition comprises one or more of AIPO4, Al(OH) 3, A 1 (S04)3 and
alum.
2 1. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-20,
further comprising histidine.
22. The immunogenic composition according to claim 21, wherein the
concentration of histidine is between about 2mM and about 20mM.
23. The immunogenic composition according to claim 22, wherein the
concentration of histidine is between about 5mM and about 15mM.
24. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-20,
further comprising succinate.
25. The immunogenic composition according to claim 24, wherein the
concentration of succinate is between about 2mM and about 1OmM.
26. The immunogenic composition according to claim 25, wherein the
concentration of succinate is between about 3mM and about 7mM.
27. The immunogenic composition according to claim 25, wherein the
concentration of succinate is about 5mM.
28. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-27,
wherein the pH is between about 5.0 and about 8.0.
29. The immunogenic composition according to claim 28, wherein the pH
is between about 5.8 and 6.0.
30. The immunogenic composition according to claim 29, wherein the
concentration of histidine is about lOmM, pH 6.0.
31. The immunogenic composition according to any one of claims 1-30,
wherein the composition is lyophilized.
32. The immunogenic composition according to claim 31, wherein the
lyophilized composition is resuspended in a buffer comprising aluminum.
33. The immunogenic composition according to claim 32, wherein the
buffer comprises A1P04, Al(OH)3, A 12(S0 4 ) 3 or alum.
34. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition comprises about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5
mg/niL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
35. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL
aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
36. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL rLP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A
polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8:1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL of aluminum as A1P04, lOmM
histidine pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
37. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition comprises about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5
mg/niL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
38. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide, about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL
aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
39. The immunogenic composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the
composition consists essentially of 200ug/mL rLP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily A
polypeptide, 200ug/mL LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide, about a 2.8:1
molar ratio of Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL of aluminum as A1P04, 5mM
succinate pH 6.0, and 150 mM NaCl.
40. A method for stabilizing the potency of a LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide in an immunogenic composition, said method comprising the step of
(a) formulating the LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide in a composition with
a molar ratio of detergent to protein of between about 0.5: 1 and about 10:1.
4 1. The method according to claim 40, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is between about 1:1 and about 5:1.
42. The method according to claim 4 1, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is between about 1.4: 1 and about 4.2:1 .
43. The method according to claim 42, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is about 2.8: 1.
44. The method according to any one of claims 40-43, wherein the amount
of detergent is sufficient to reduce polypeptide binding to silicon in a container.
45. The method according to claim 44, wherein the container is a syringe or
a vial.
46. The method according to any one of claims 40-45, wherein the
detergent is a non-ionic detergent.
47. The method according to claim 46, wherein the detergent is a
polysorbate detergent.
48. The method according to claim 47, wherein the detergent is Polysorbate
80.
49. The method according to any one of claims 40-48, wherein the
composition further comprises a multivalent cation.
50. The method according to claim 49, wherein the multivalent cation is
calcium or aluminum.
51. The method according to claim 50, wherein the composition comprises
(Ca)3(P0 4)2.
52. The method according to claim 50, wherein the concentration of
aluminum is between about 0.1 mg/ml and about 1 mg/ml.
53. The method according to claim 52, wherein the concentration of
aluminum is about 0.5 mg/ml.
54. The method according to any one of claims 49-53, wherein the
composition comprises AIPO4, Al(OH)3, Ai2 (S0 4 ) 3 or alum.
55. The method according to any one of claims 40-54, further comprising
histidine.
56. The method according to claim 55, wherein the concentration of
histidine is between about 2mM and about 20mM.
57. The method according to claim 56, wherein the concentration of
histidine is between about 5mM and about 15mM.
58. The method according to any one of claims 40-54, further comprising
succinate.
59. The method according to claim 58, wherein the concentration of
succinate is between about 2mM and about 1OmM.
60. The method according to claim 59, wherein the concentration of
succinate is between about 3mM and about 7mM.
61. The method according to any one of claims 40-60, wherein the pH is
between about 5.0 and about 8.0.
62. The method according to claim 61, wherein the pH is between about 5.8
and 6.0.
63. The method according to claim 62, wherein the concentration of
histidine is about lOmM, pH 6.0.
64. The method according to claim 62, wherein the concentration of
succinate is about 5mM, pH 6.0.
65. The method according to any one of claims 40-64, further comprising
the step of (b) lyophilizing the immunogenic composition.
66. The method according to claim 65, further comprising the step of
(c) resuspending the lyophilized composition in a buffer comprising aluminum.
67. The method according to claim 66, wherein the buffer comprises
AIPO4, Al(OH) 3, A 12(S0 4)3 or alum.
68. The method according to claim 40, wherein the Subfamily B protein is
formulated in a composition consisting essentially of about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as AIPO4, lOmM histidine pH 6.0,
and 150 mMNaCl.
69. The method according to claim 40, wherein the Subfamily B protein is
formulated in a composition consisting essentially of about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as AIPO4, 5mM succinate pH 6.0,
and 150 mMNaCl.
70. A method for stabilizing the potency of a LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B
polypeptide in an immunogenic composition, said method comprising the step of
(a) formulating the LP2086 (fHBP) Subfamily B polypeptide in a composition with
between about 0.1 mg/ml and about 1 mg/ml aluminum and a molar ratio of
detergent to protein of about 0.5: 1 and about 10:1.
71. The method according to claim 70, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is between about 1:1 and about 5:1.
72. The method according to claim 71, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is between about 1.4: 1 and about 4.2:1 .
73. The method according to claim 72, wherein the molar ratio of detergent
to protein is about 2.8: 1.
74. The method according to any one of claims 70-73, wherein the amount
of detergent is sufficient to reduce polypeptide binding to silicon in a container.
75. The method according to claim 74, wherein the container is a syringe or
a vial.
76. The method according to any one of claims 70-75, wherein the
detergent is a non-ionic detergent.
77. The method according to claim 76, wherein the detergent is a
polysorbate detergent.
78. The method according to claim 77, wherein the detergent is Polysorbate
80.
79. The method according to any one of claims 70-78, wherein the
concentration of aluminum is about 0.5 mg/ml.
80. The method according to any one of claims 70-79, wherein the
composition comprises A1P04, Al(OH)3, Ai2 (S0 4 ) 3 or alum.
81. The method according to any one of claims 70-80, further comprising
histidine.
82. The method according to claim 81, wherein the concentration of
histidine is between about 2mM and about 20mM.
83. The method according to claim 82, wherein the concentration of
histidine is between about 5mM and about 15mM.
84. The method according to any one of claims 70-80, further comprising
succinate.
85. The method according to claim 84, wherein the concentration of
succinate is between about 2mM and about lOmM.
86. The method according to claim 85, wherein the concentration of
succinate is between about 3mM and about 7mM.
87. The method according to any one of claims 70-86, wherein the pH is
between about 5.0 and about 8.0.
88. The method according to claim 87, wherein the pH is between about 5.8
and 6.0.
89. The method according to claim 88, wherein the concentration of
histidine is about lOmM, pH 6.0.
90. The method according to any one of claims 70-89, further comprising
the step of (b) lyophilizing the immunogenic composition.
91. The method according to claim 90, further comprising the step of
(c) resuspending the lyophilized composition in a buffer comprising aluminum.
92. The method according to claim 91, wherein the buffer comprises
AIPO4, Al(OH)3, A 12(S0 4)3 or alum.
93. The method according to claim 70, wherein the Subfamily B protein is
formulated in a composition consisting essentially of about a 2.8: 1 molar ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/niL aluminum as A1P04, lOmM histidine pH 6.0,
and 150 mMNaCl.
94. The method according to claim 70, wherein the Subfamily B protein is
formulated in a composition comprising essentially of about a 2.8: 1molar ratio of
Polysorbate 80 to protein, 0.5 mg/mL aluminum as A1P04, 5mM succinate pH 6.0,
and 150 mMNaCl.
95. A method for determining the potency of a 2086 (fHBP) polypeptide in
an immunogenic composition, said method comprising the steps of: (1) incubating
a first monoclonal Ab and a second mAb with an immunogenic composition
comprising a 2086 protein, wherein the first mAb is conjugated to a first tag that is
used to capture the mAb and the second mAb is conjugated to a second tag that is
detectable and wherein the first and second mAbs are directed to different
conformational epitopes on a 2086 reference protein; (2) capturing the first rnAbbound
2086 protein using the first tag; and (3) detecting and quantifying the
amount of captured second mAb-bound 2086 protein using the second tag.
96. The method according to claim 95, wherein the first tag is biotin, GST a
6xHis tag, or beads.
97. The method according to claim 96, wherein the beads are carboxylated
polystyrene beads or paramagnetic beads.
98. The method of claim 96, wherein the first tag is captured with
streptavidin beads, a streptavidin column, glutathione beads, glutathione column,
nickel beads, a nickel column, centrifugation or with a magnetic field.
99. The method according to any one of claims 95-98, wherein the second
tag is biotin, HRP, a fluorophore or a radiolabel.
100. The method of claim 99, wherein the second tag is detected with
streptavidin conjugated to a fluorophore or HRP, by electrochemiluminescence,
detection of fluorescence, or detection of radioactivity.
101. The method according to any one of claims 95-1 00, where in the
2086 polypeptide is a Subfamily A polypeptide.
102. The method according to any one of claims 95-100, where in the
2086 polypeptide is a Subfamily B polypeptide.
103. The method according to any one of claims 95-102, where in the
2086 polypeptide is lipidated.
104. The method according to any one of claims 95-102, where in the
2086 polypeptide is non-lipidated.
105. The method according to any one of claims 95-104, where in the
2086 polypeptide is recombinant.
106. The method according to any one of claims 95-105, wherein
polypeptides exhibiting epitopes recognized by both antibodies may be quantified.
107. The method according to any one of claims 95-106, wherein the
potency of a sample is compared to the potency of a reference material.