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Heritable polymorphisms within the human IgG locus, collectively termed allotypes, have often been linked by statistical associations, but rarely mechanistically, to a wide range of disease states. One potential explanation for these associations is that IgG allotype alters host cell receptors' affinity for IgG, dampening or enhancing an immune response depending on the nature of the change and the receptors. In this work, a panel of allotypic antibody variants were evaluated using multiplexed, label-free biophysical methods and cell-based functional assays to determine what effect, if any, human IgG polymorphisms have on antibody function. While we observed several differences in FcγR affinity among allotypes, there was little evidence of dramatically altered FcγR-based effector function or antigen recognition activity associated with this aspect of genetic variability.

The impact of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection on the durability of Ad26.COV2.S vaccine-elicited responses, and the effect of homologous boosting has not been well explored. We followed a cohort of healthcare workers for 6 months after receiving the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine and a further one month after they received an Ad26.COV2.S booster dose. We assessed longitudinal spike-specific antibody and T cell responses in individuals who had never had SARS-CoV-2 infection, compared to those who were infected with either the D614G or Beta variants prior to vaccination. Antibody and T cell responses elicited by the primary dose were durable against several variants of concern over the 6 month follow-up period, regardless of infection history. However, at 6 months after first vaccination, antibody binding, neutralization and ADCC were as much as 33-fold higher in individuals with hybrid immunity compared to those with no prior infection. Antibody cross-reactivity profiles of the previously infected groups were similar at 6 months, unlike at earlier time points suggesting that the effect of immune imprinting diminishes by 6 months. Importantly, an Ad26.COV2.S booster dose increased the magnitude of the antibody response in individuals with no prior infection to similar levels as those with previous infection.The magnitude of spike T cell responses and proportion of T cell responders remained stable after homologous boosting, concomitant with a significant increase in long-lived early differentiated CD4 memory T cells. Thus, these data highlight that multiple antigen exposures, whether through infection and vaccination or vaccination alone, result in similar boosts after Ad26.COV2.S vaccination.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) Variant of Concern (VOC) and its sub-lineages (including BA.2, BA.4, BA.5, BA.2.12.1) contain spike mutations that confer high level resistance to neutralizing antibodies. The NVX-CoV2373 vaccine, a protein nanoparticle vaccine, has value in countries with constrained cold-chain requirements. Here we report neutralizing titers following two or three doses of NVX-CoV2373. We show that after two doses, Omicron sub-lineages BA.1 and BA.4/BA.5 were resistant to neutralization by 72% (21/29) and 59% (17/29) of samples. However, after a third dose of NVX-CoV2373, we observed high titers against Omicron BA.1 (GMT: 1,197) and BA.4/BA.5 (GMT: 582), with responses similar in magnitude to those triggered by three doses of an mRNA vaccine.These data are of particular relevance as BA.4/BA.5 is dominating in multiple locations, and highlight the potential utility of the NVX-CoV2373 vaccine as a booster in resource-limited environments.

As SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, several variants of concern (VOCs) have arisen which are defined by multiple mutations in their spike proteins. These VOCs have shown variable escape from antibody responses, and have been shown to trigger qualitatively different antibody responses during infection. By studying plasma from individuals infected with either the original D614G, Beta or Delta variants, we show that the Beta and Delta variants elicit antibody responses that are overall more cross-reactive than those triggered by D614G. Patterns of cross-reactivity varied, and the Beta and Delta variants did not elicit cross-reactive responses to each other. However, Beta-elicited plasma was highly cross-reactive against Delta plus (Delta+) which differs from Delta by a single K417N mutation in the receptor binding domain, suggesting the plasma response targets the N417 residue. To probe this further, we isolated monoclonal antibodies from a Beta-infected individual with plasma responses against Beta, Delta+ and Omicron, which all possess the N417 residue. We isolated a N417-dependent antibody, 084-7D, which showed similar neutralization breadth to the plasma. The 084-7D mAb utilized the IGHV3-23*01 germline gene and had similar somatic hypermutations compared to previously described public antibodies which target the 417 residue. Thus, we have identified a novel antibody which targets a shared epitope found on three distinct VOCs, enabling their cross-neutralization. Understanding antibodies targetting escape mutations such as K417N, which repeatedly emerge through convergent evolution in SARS-CoV-2 variants, may aid in the development of next-generation antibody therapeutics and vaccines.ImportanceThe evolution of SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in variants of concern (VOCs) with distinct spike mutations conferring varying immune escape profiles. These variable mutations also influence the cross-reactivity of the antibody response mounted by individuals infected with each of these variants. This study sought to understand the antibody responses elicited by different SARS-CoV-2 variants, and to define shared epitopes. We show that Beta and Delta infection resulted in antibody responses that were more cross-reactive compared to the original D614G variant, but each with differing patterns of cross-reactivity. We further isolated an antibody from Beta infection, which targeted the N417 site, enabling cross-neutralization of Beta, Delta+ and Omicron, all of which possess this residue. The discovery of antibodies which target escape mutations common to multiple variants highlights conserved epitopes to target in future vaccines and therapeutics.

SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) differentially trigger neutralizing antibodies with variable cross-neutralizing capacity. Here we show that unlike SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1, which triggered neutralizing antibodies with limited cross-reactivity, BA.4/5 infection triggers highly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies. Cross-reactivity was observed both in the absence of prior vaccination and also in breakthrough infections following vaccination. This suggests that next-generation vaccines incorporating BA.4, which is spreading globally, might result in enhanced neutralization breadth.

SummaryThe SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 variant, which exhibits high level neutralization resistance, has since evolved into several sub-lineages including BA.4 and BA.5, which have dominated the fifth wave of infection in South Africa. Here we assessed the sensitivity of BA.4 to neutralization and antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in convalescent donors infected with four previous variants of SARS-CoV-2, as well as in post-vaccination breakthrough infections (BTIs) caused by Delta or BA.1. We confirm that BA.4 shows high level resistance to neutralization, regardless of the infecting variant. However, breakthrough infections, which trigger potent neutralization, retained activity against BA.4, albeit at reduced titers. Fold reduction of neutralization in BTIs was lower than that seen in unvaccinated convalescent donors, suggesting maturation of neutralizing responses to become more resilient against VOCs in hybrid immunity. BA.4 sensitivity to ADCC was reduced but remained detectable in both convalescent donors and in BTIs. Overall, the high neutralization resistance of BA.4, even to antibodies from BA.1 infections, provides an immunological mechanism for the rapid spread of BA.4 immediately after a BA.1-dominated wave. Furthermore, although ADCC activity against BA.4 was reduced, residual activity may nonetheless contribute to the protection from disease.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants caused major waves of infections. Here, we assess the sensitivity of BA.4 to binding, neutralization, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) potential, measured by FcγRIIIa signaling, in convalescent donors infected with four previous variants of SARS-CoV-2, as well as in post-vaccination breakthrough infections (BTIs) caused by Delta or BA.1. We confirm that BA.4 shows high-level neutralization resistance regardless of the infecting variant. However, BTIs retain activity against BA.4, albeit at reduced titers. BA.4 sensitivity to ADCC is reduced compared with other variants but with smaller fold losses compared with neutralization and similar patterns of cross-reactivity. Overall, the high neutralization resistance of BA.4, even to antibodies from BA.1 infection, provides an immunological mechanism for the rapid spread of BA.4 immediately after a BA.1-dominated wave. Furthermore, although ADCC potential against BA.4 is reduced, residual activity may contribute to observed protection from severe disease.

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), when administered through passive immunization, are protective against HIV-1 infection. Current HIV-1 vaccine strategies are aimed at guiding the immune system to make bNAbs by mimicking their development during infection. Somatic hypermutation of the variable region is known to be crucial for the development of bNAbs. More recently, however, studies have shown how class-switch recombination (CSR) resulting in the generation of different antibody isotypes may serve as an additional mechanism through which antibodies can gain neutralization breadth and potency. In this review, we discuss the importance of different antibody isotypes for HIV-1 neutralization breadth and potency and how this information can be leveraged to improve passive and active immunization against HIV-1.

Influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) stalk-specific antibodies have been shown to potently induce Fc-mediated effector functions which are important in protection from disease. In placebo-controlled maternal influenza (MatFlu) vaccination trials of pregnant women living with or without HIV, reduced risk of influenza illness was associated with high HA stalk antibody titers following trivalent inactivated vaccination (TIV). However, the mechanisms of immunity conferred by the HA stalk antibodies were not well understood. Here, we investigated HA stalk-specific Fc effector functions including antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), antibody-dependent complement deposition (ADCD), and FcγRIIa and FcγRIIIa binding in response to seasonal influenza vaccination. These were measured pre- and 1-month post-vaccination in 141 HIV-uninfected women (67 TIV and 74 placebo recipients) and 119 women living with HIV (WLWH; 66 TIV and 53 placebo recipients). In contrast to HIV-uninfected women, where HA stalk-specific ADCP and FcγRIIa binding were significantly boosted, WLWH showed no increase in response to vaccination. HA stalk-specific ADCC potential and FcγRIIIa binding were not boosted regardless of HIV status but were higher in WLWH compared with HIV-uninfected women prior to vaccination. HA stalk-specific ADCD was significantly increased by vaccination in all women, but was significantly lower in the WLWH both pre- and post- vaccination. Co-ordination between HA stalk-specific ADCP and ADCD in WLWH was improved by vaccination. Fc polyfunctionality was enhanced by vaccination in HIV-uninfected women and driven by the HA stalk antibody titers. However, in the WLWH, higher pre-vaccination Fc polyfunctionality was maintained post-vaccination but was decoupled from titer. Overall, we showed differential regulation of Fc effector HA stalk responses, suggesting that HIV infection results in unique humoral immunity in response to influenza vaccination, with relevance for future strategies that aim to target the HA stalk in this population.

Antibodies with the same variable region can exist as multiple isotypes with varying neutralization potencies, though the mechanism for this is not fully defined. We previously isolated an HIV-directed IgA1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), CAP88-CH06, and showed that IgA1 and IgG3 isotypes of this antibody demonstrated enhanced neutralization compared to IgG1. To explore the mechanism behind this, hinge region and constant heavy chain (CH1) chimeras were constructed between the IgA1, IgG3 and IgG1 mAbs and assessed for neutralization activity, antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Hinge chimeras revealed that the increased neutralization potency and phagocytosis of the IgG3 isotype was attributed to its longer hinge region. In contrast, for IgA1, CH1 chimeras showed that this region was responsible both for enhanced neutralization potency and decreased ADCP, though ADCC was not affected. Overall, these data show that the enhanced neutralization potency of CAP88-CH06 IgG3 and IgA1, compared to IgG1, is achieved through distinct mechanisms. Understanding the influence of the hinge and CH1 regions on Fab domain function may provide insights into the engineering of therapeutic antibodies with increased neutralization potency.

The Janssen (JohnsonJohnson) Ad26.COV2.S non-replicating viral vector vaccine has been widely deployed for COVID-19 vaccination programs in resource-limited settings. Here we confirm that neutralizing and binding antibody responses to Ad26.COV2.S vaccination are stable for 6 months post-vaccination, when tested against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants. Secondly, using longitudinal samples from individuals who experienced clinically mild breakthrough infections 4 to 5 months after vaccination, we show dramatically boosted binding antibodies, Fc effector function, and neutralization. These high titer responses are of similar magnitude to humoral immune responses measured in convalescent donors who had been hospitalized with severe illness, and are cross-reactive against diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the neutralization-resistant Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant that currently dominates global infections, as well as SARS-CoV-1. These data have implications for population immunity in areas where the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine has been widely deployed, but where ongoing infections continue to occur at high levels.

Global genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 has identified variants associated with increased transmissibility, neutralization resistance and disease severity. Here we report the emergence of the PANGO lineage C.1.2, detected at low prevalence in South Africa and eleven other countries. The initial C.1.2 detection is associated with a high substitution rate, and includes changes within the spike protein that have been associated with increased transmissibility or reduced neutralization sensitivity in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern or variants of interest. Like Beta and Delta, C.1.2 shows significantly reduced neutralization sensitivity to plasma from vaccinees and individuals infected with the ancestral D614G virus. In contrast, convalescent donors infected with either Beta or Delta show high plasma neutralization against C.1.2. These functional data suggest that vaccine efficacy against C.1.2 will be equivalent to Beta and Delta, and that prior infection with either Beta or Delta will likely offer protection against C.1.2.

The Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) Ad26.COV2.S non-replicating viral vector vaccine has been widely deployed for COVID-19 vaccination programs in resource-limited settings. Here we confirm that neutralizing and binding responses to Ad26.COV2.S vaccination are stable for 6 months post-vaccination, when tested against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants. Secondly, using longitudinal samples from individuals who experienced clinically mild breakthrough infections 4 to 5 months after vaccination, we show dramatically boosted binding antibodies, Fc effector function and neutralization. These high titer responses are of similar magnitude to humoral immune responses measured in severely ill, hospitalized donors, and are cross-reactive against diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the extremely neutralization resistant Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant that currently dominates global infections, as well as SARS-CoV-1. These data have implications for population immunity in areas where the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine has been widely deployed, but where ongoing infections continue to occur at high levels.

SummarySARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) exhibit escape from neutralizing antibodies, causing concern about vaccine effectiveness. However, while non-neutralizing cytotoxic functions of antibodies are associated with decreased disease severity and vaccine protection, Fc effector function escape from VOCs is poorly defined. Furthermore, whether VOCs trigger Fc functions with altered specificity, as has been reported for neutralization, is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the Beta VOC partially evades Fc effector activity in individuals infected with the original (D614G) variant. However, not all functions are equivalently affected, suggesting differential targeting by antibodies mediating distinct Fc functions. Furthermore, Beta infection triggered responses with significantly improved Fc cross-reactivity against global VOCs compared to either D614G infected or Ad26.COV2.S vaccinated individuals. This suggests that, as for neutralization, the infecting spike sequence impacts Fc effector function. These data have important implications for vaccine strategies that incorporate VOCs, suggesting these may induce broader Fc effector responses.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern (VOCs) exhibit escape from neutralizing antibodies, causing concern about vaccine effectiveness. However, while non-neutralizing cytotoxic functions of antibodies are associated with improved disease outcome and vaccine protection, Fc effector function escape from VOCs is poorly defined. Furthermore, whether VOCs trigger Fc functions with altered specificity, as has been reported for neutralization, is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the Beta VOC partially evades Fc effector activity in individuals infected with the original (D614G) variant. However, not all functions are equivalently affected, suggesting differential targeting by antibodies mediating distinct Fc functions. Furthermore, Beta and Delta infection trigger responses with significantly improved Fc cross-reactivity against global VOCs compared with D614G-infected or Ad26.COV2.S-vaccinated individuals. This suggests that, as for neutralization, the infecting spike sequence affects Fc effector function. These data have important implications for vaccine strategies that incorporate VOCs, suggesting these may induce broader Fc effector responses., Graphical abstract, Beyond neutralization, antibodies trigger cytotoxic functions associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccine protection. Richardson et al. show that these functions are retained against variants of concern (VOC) and that infection by VOCs triggers cross-reactive cytotoxic antibodies. This suggests that SARS-CoV-2 VOC could be used as the basis of vaccines triggering enhanced immune breadth.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although the goal of preventive HIV vaccine design is primarily the induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), recent evidence suggests that a protective response will also benefit from Fc effector functions. Here, we provide an update on the antibody response to HIV infection, including both Fab and Fc-mediated antibody responses. We also highlight recent studies showing the interplay between these functions, focusing primarily on studies published in the last year. RECENT FINDINGS: Identification and characterization of bNAb donors continues to provide insights into viral factors that are potentially translatable to vaccine design. Improved and more diverse measures of Fc effector function, and modulators thereof, are enabling a deeper understanding of their role in infection. New data providing mechanistic links between the innate and adaptive humoral immune responses are creating exciting opportunities for vaccine strategies, with the aim of eliciting a polyfunctional protective response. SUMMARY: New insights into the overall humoral response to HIV infection are defining diverse and synergistic mechanisms required for antibody protection from HIV through vaccination.

Global genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 has identified variants associated with increased transmissibility, neutralization resistance and disease severity. Here we report the emergence of the PANGO lineage C.1.2, detected at low prevalence in South Africa and eleven other countries. The emergence of C.1.2, associated with a high substitution rate, includes changes within the spike protein that have been associated with increased transmissibility or reduced neutralization sensitivity in SARS-CoV-2 VOC/VOIs. Like Beta and Delta, C.1.2 shows significantly reduced neutralization sensitivity to plasma from vaccinees and individuals infected with the ancestral D614G virus. In contrast, convalescent donors infected with either Beta or Delta showed high plasma neutralization against C.1.2. These functional data suggest that vaccine efficacy against C.1.2 will be equivalent to Beta and Delta, and that prior infection with either Beta or Delta will likely offer protection against C.1.2.

Summary The Johnson and Johnson Ad26.COV2.S single dose vaccine, designed as an emergency response to the pandemic, represents an attractive option for the scale-up of COVID-19 vaccination in resource-limited countries. We examined the effect of prior infection with ancestral (D614G) or Beta variants on Ad26.COV2.S immunogenicity approximately 28 days post-vaccination. We compared healthcare workers who were SARS-CoV-2 naive (n=20), to those infected during the first wave prior to the emergence of Beta (n=20), and those infected in the second wave (n=20), when Beta was the dominant variant. We demonstrate that a priming exposure from infection significantly increased the magnitude of spike binding antibodies, neutralizing antibodies and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity (ADCC) against D614G, Beta and Delta variants. The magnitude of antibody boosting was similar in both waves, despite the longer time interval between wave 1 infection and vaccination (7 months), compared to wave 2 (2 months). ADCC and binding cross-reactivity was similar in both waves. However, neutralization cross-reactivity varied by wave, showing that the antibody repertoire was shaped by the spike sequence of the infecting variant. Robust CD4 and CD8 T cell responses to spike of similar or higher magnitude as those elicited by infection were induced after vaccination. In contrast to antibody responses, prior infection was not required for the generation of high magnitude T cell responses, and T cell recognition of the Beta variant was fully preserved. Therefore, Ad26.COV2.S vaccination following prior infection, even >6 months previously, may result in substantially enhanced protection against COVID-19, of particular relevance in settings of high SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence. Furthermore, the dominant impact of the infecting variant on neutralization breadth after vaccination has important implications for the design of second-generation vaccines based on variants of concern.

The Johnson and Johnson Ad26.COV2.S single dose vaccine represents an attractive option for COVID-19 vaccination in resource limited countries. We examined the effect of prior infection with different SARS-CoV-2 variants on Ad26.COV2.S immunogenicity. We compared participants who were SARS-CoV-2 naïve with those either infected with the ancestral D614G virus or infected in the second wave when Beta predominated. Prior infection significantly boosts spike binding antibodies, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and neutralizing antibodies against D614G, Beta and Delta, however neutralization cross-reactivity varied by wave. Robust CD4 and CD8 T cell responses are induced after vaccination, regardless of prior infection. T cell recognition of variants is largely preserved, apart from some reduction in CD8 recognition of Delta. Thus, Ad26.COV2.S vaccination following infection may result in enhanced protection against COVID-19. The impact of the infecting variant on neutralization breadth after vaccination has implications for the design of second-generation vaccines based on variants of concern., Graphical Abstract, Keeton, Richardson, Moyo-Gwete et al show that SARS-CoV-2 infection prior to Ad26CoV2.S vaccination significantly boosts cross-reactive ADCC, binding and neutralizing antibodies, and moderately boosts T cell responses against variants of concern. Furthermore, the infecting virus spike sequence determines the cross-reactivity of neutralizing responses, with implications for second generation vaccine design.

The continual emergence of novel coronaviruses (CoV), such as severe acute respiratory syndrome-(SARS)-CoV-2, highlights the critical need for broadly reactive therapeutics and vaccines against this family of viruses. From a recovered SARS-CoV donor sample, we identify and characterize a panel of six monoclonal antibodies that cross-react with CoV spike (S) proteins from the highly pathogenic SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, and demonstrate a spectrum of reactivity against other CoVs. Epitope mapping reveals that these antibodies recognize multiple epitopes on SARS-CoV-2 S, including the receptor-binding domain, the N-terminal domain, and the S2 subunit. Functional characterization demonstrates that the antibodies mediate phagocytosis—and in some cases trogocytosis—but not neutralization in vitro. When tested in vivo in murine models, two of the antibodies demonstrate a reduction in hemorrhagic pathology in the lungs. The identification of cross-reactive epitopes recognized by functional antibodies expands the repertoire of targets for pan-coronavirus vaccine design strategies., Graphical abstract, Shiakolas et al. demonstrate that cross-reactive coronavirus antibodies induced by natural infection display a spectrum of epitope specificities across the spike protein and exhibit in vitro and in vivo antiviral functions.

Antibodies mediate pathogen neutralization in addition to several cytotoxic Fc functions through engaging cellular receptors and recruiting effector cells. Fc effector functions have been well described in disease control and protection against infectious diseases including HIV, Ebola, malaria, influenza and tuberculosis, making them attractive targets for vaccine design.We briefly summarize the role of Fc effector functions in disease control and protection in viral, bacterial and parasitic infectious diseases. We review Fc effector function in passive immunization and vaccination, and primarily focus on strategies to elicit and modulate these functions as part of a robust vaccine strategy.Despite their known correlation with vaccine efficacy for several diseases, only recently have seminal studies addressed how these Fc effector functions can be elicited and modulated in vaccination. However, gaps remain in assay standardization and the precise mechanisms of diverse functional assays. Furthermore, there are inherent difficulties in the translation of findings from animal models to humans, given the difference in sequence, expression and function of Fc receptors and Fc portions of antibodies. However, overall it is clear that vaccine development to elicit Fc effector function is an important goal for optimal prevention against infectious disease.

To protect future generations against HIV, a vaccine will need to induce immunity by the time of sexual debut and hence requires immunization during childhood. Current strategies for a prophylactic HIV vaccine include the induction of a broadly neutralizing antibody response and the recruitment of potent effector functions of immune cells via the constant antibody Fc region., A prophylactic HIV vaccine would ideally induce protective immunity prior to sexual debut. Children develop broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) responses faster and at higher frequencies than adults, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms or the potential role of Fc-mediated effector functions in disease progression. We therefore performed systems immunology, with immunoglobulin profiling, on HIV-infected children with progressive and nonprogressive disease. Pediatric nonprogressors (PNPs) showed distinct immunoglobulin profiles with an increased ability to elicit potent Fc-mediated natural killer (NK)-cell effector functions. In contrast to previous reports in adults, both groups of children showed high levels of gp120-specific IgG Fc glycan sialylation compared to bulk IgG. Importantly, higher levels of Fc glycan sialylation were associated with increased bnAb breadth, providing the first evidence that Fc sialylation may drive affinity maturation of HIV-specific antibodies in children, a mechanism that could be exploited for vaccination strategies. IMPORTANCE To protect future generations against HIV, a vaccine will need to induce immunity by the time of sexual debut and hence requires immunization during childhood. Current strategies for a prophylactic HIV vaccine include the induction of a broadly neutralizing antibody response and the recruitment of potent effector functions of immune cells via the constant antibody Fc region. In this study, we show that nonprogressing HIV-infected children mounted antibody responses against HIV that were able to mediate potent Fc effector functions, which may contribute to the control of HIV replication. Children who had specific glycan structures on the Fc portion of antibodies against HIV were able to neutralize a broader range of HIV variants, providing evidence of a potential role of Fc glycovariation in the development of bnAbs against HIV. These findings complement our knowledge of the distinct immune landscape in early life that could be exploited in the development of vaccine strategies.

The continual emergence of novel coronavirus (CoV) strains, like SARS-CoV-2, highlights the critical need for broadly reactive therapeutics and vaccines against this family of viruses. Coronavirus spike (S) proteins share common structural motifs that could be vulnerable to cross-reactive antibody responses. To study this phenomenon in human coronavirus infection, we applied a high-throughput sequencing method called LIBRA-seq (Linking B cell receptor to antigen specificity through sequencing) to a SARS-CoV-1 convalescent donor sample. We identified and characterized a panel of six monoclonal antibodies that cross-reacted with S proteins from the highly pathogenic SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated a spectrum of reactivity against other coronaviruses. Epitope mapping revealed that these antibodies recognized multiple epitopes on SARS-CoV-2 S, including the receptor binding domain (RBD), N-terminal domain (NTD), and S2 subunit. Functional characterization demonstrated that the antibodies mediated a variety of Fc effector functions in vitro and mitigated pathological burden in vivo. The identification of cross-reactive epitopes recognized by functional antibodies expands the repertoire of targets for pan-coronavirus vaccine design strategies that may be useful for preventing potential future coronavirus outbreaks.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant escapes neutralizing antibodies elicited by vaccines or infection. However, whether Omicron triggers cross-reactive humoral responses to other variants of concern (VOCs) remains unknown. We use plasma from 20 unvaccinated and seven vaccinated individuals infected by Omicron BA.1 to test binding, Fc effector function and neutralization against VOCs. In unvaccinated individuals, Fc effector function and binding antibodies target Omicron and other VOCs at comparable levels. However, Omicron BA.1-triggered neutralization is not extensively cross-reactive for VOCs (14 to 31-fold titer reduction) and we observe 4-fold decreased titers against Omicron BA.2. In contrast, vaccination followed by breakthrough Omicron infection was associated with improved cross-neutralization of VOCs, with titers exceeding 1:2,100. This has important implications for vulnerability of unvaccinated Omicron-infected individuals to reinfection by circulating and emerging VOCs. While Omicron-based immunogens may be adequate boosters, they are unlikely to be superior to existing vaccines for priming in SARS-CoV-2 naive individuals.

Antibody Fc effector functions contribute to HIV control and have been implicated in the partial efficacy seen in the RV144 vaccine trial. Fc-mediated trogocytosis has been previously described for anti-cancer antibodies and results in the removal of membrane fragments from target cells. Here we developed a flow cytometry-based assay which measures the transfer of membrane fragments from a gp120-coated CD4+ lymphocytic cell line (CEM.NKR-CCR5 cells stained with a membrane dye PKH26) to monocytic cells (THP-1 cells stained with CFSE). We showed that this transfer occurred rapidly, within 1 h, and was mediated through engagement of the FcγRIIa/b receptors on the THP-1 cells. HIV-specific IgG as well as gp120 and CD4 could be detected on the surface of THP-1 cells in a process that we demonstrated was distinct from phagocytosis. Furthermore, while the THP-1 effector cells remained intact following the receipt of new membrane proteins, the viability of the target CEM.NKR-CCR5 cells decreased over time. Analysis of HIV-specific plasma revealed that antibodies with trogocytic activity were common in acute and chronic HIV infection but were higher in individuals with broadly neutralizing antibody responses We also examined trogocytosis mediated by broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) targeting multiple epitopes on the BG505.SOSIP.664 trimer and show that levels of binding correlated with the trogocytosis score. Overall, our data describe a new antiviral Fc effector function mediated by HIV-specific antibodies that could be harnessed for vaccination and cure strategies.

SUMMARY Antibodies that bind residue K169 in the V2 region of the HIV-1 envelope correlated with reduced risk of infection in the RV144 vaccine trial but were restricted to two ED-motif-encoding light chain genes. Here, we identify an HIV-infected donor with high-titer V2 peptide-binding antibodies and isolate two antibody lineages (CAP228-16H/19F and CAP228–3D) that mediate potent antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Both lineages use the IGHV5–51 heavy chain germline gene, similar to the RV144 antibody CH58, but one lineage (CAP228-16H/19F) uses a light chain without the ED motif. A cocrystal structure of CAP228-16H bound to a V2 peptide identified a IGLV3–21 gene-encoded DDxD motif that is used to bind K169, with a mechanism that allows CAP228-16H to recognize more globally relevant V2 immunotypes. Overall, these data further our understanding of the development of cross-reactive, V2-binding, antiviral antibodies and effectively expand the human light chain repertoire able to respond to RV144-like immunogens., In Brief V2-directed antibodies from the RV144 vaccine trial correlated with reduced HIV-1 infection risk but exhibited restricted light chain gene usage. Here, van Eeden et al. isolate similar antibodies from an HIV-1-infected individual and identify a third V2-reactive light chain gene, increasing the antibody repertoire potentially elicited by vaccination., Graphical Abstract

Antibody functions such as neutralization require recognition of antigen by the Fab region, while effector functions are additionally mediated by interactions of the Fc region with soluble factors and cellular receptors. The efficacy of individual antibodies varies based on Fab domain characteristics, such as affinity for antigen and epitope-specificity, and on Fc domain characteristics that include isotype, subclass, and glycosylation profile. Here, a series of HIV-specific antibody subclass and hinge variants were constructed and tested to define those properties associated with differential effector function. In the context of the broadly neutralizing CD4 binding site-specific antibody VRC01 and the variable loop (V3) binding antibody 447-52D, hinge truncation and extension had a considerable impact on the magnitude of phagocytic activity of both IgG1 and IgG3 subclasses. The improvement in phagocytic potency of antibodies with extended hinges could not be attributed to changes in either intrinsic antigen or antibody receptor affinity. This effect was specific to phagocytosis and was generalizable to different phagocytes, at different effector cell to target ratios, for target particles of different size and composition, and occurred across a range of antibody concentrations. Antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity and neutralization were generally independent of hinge length, and complement deposition displayed variable local optima. In vivo stability testing showed that IgG molecules with altered hinges can exhibit similar biodistribution and pharmacokinetic profiles as IgG1. Overall, these results suggest that when high phagocytic activity is desirable, therapeutic antibodies may benefit from being formatted as human IgG3 or engineered IgG1 forms with elongated hinges., Author summary Target binding and receptor binding domains of antibodies are separated by a hinge region that differs among IgG subclasses. Among these, IgG3 has a uniquely elongated hinge, whose role in an immunoglobulin’s ability to facilitate different immune functions is incompletely understood. We evaluated the effect of varied hinge length and composition on diverse antibody activities and found that extended hinges enhance phagocytosis, a process through which the immune system can clear potentially harmful particles such as viruses. This enhancement was observed across diverse effector cell types, target particles, and for multiple HIV-specific antibodies. Antibodies with extended hinges showed in vivo persistence and localization in a mouse model similar to those with natural hinges. Consequently, immune responses or antibody therapies expected to benefit from a strong phagocytic response, such as viral sequestration, may be enhanced naturally by the IgG3 subclass or artificially by hinge extension. This work expands knowledge of the role that IgG3 plays in immunity and provides a framework for hinge engineering to improve antibodies.

The α4β7 integrin is a non-essential HIV-1 adhesion receptor, bound by the gp120 V1V2 domain, facilitating rapid viral dissemination into gut-associated lymphoid tissues. Antibodies blocking this interaction early in infection can improve disease outcome, and V1V2-targeted antibodies were correlated with moderate efficacy reported from the RV144 HIV-1 vaccine trial. Monoclonal α4β7-blocking antibodies recognise two slightly different helical V2 conformations, and current structural data suggests their binding sites are occluded in prefusion envelope trimers. Here, we report cocrystal structures of two α4β7-blocking antibodies from an infected donor complexed with scaffolded V1V2 or V2 peptides. Both antibodies recognised the same helix-coil V2 conformation as RV144 antibody CH58, identifying a frequently sampled alternative conformation of full-length V1V2. In the context of Envelope, this α-helical form of V1V2 displays highly exposed α4β7-binding sites, potentially providing a functional role for non-native Envelope on virion or infected cell surfaces in HIV-1 dissemination, pathogenesis, and vaccine design., Antibodies blocking the V1V2 domain of HIV Envelope from binding integrin are associated with positive disease outcomes. Here, Wibmer et al. determine the structure of full length V1V2 bound to these antibodies, revealing an alternative fold of V1V2 with exposed integrin-binding sites that functions on non-native Envelope.

While the induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) is a major goal of HIV vaccination strategies, there is mounting evidence to suggest that antibodies with Fc effector function also contribute to protection against HIV infection. Here we investigated Fc effector functionality of HIV-specific IgG plasma antibodies over 3 years of infection in 23 individuals, 13 of whom developed bNAbs. Antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), complement deposition (ADCD), cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and cellular trogocytosis (ADCT) were detected in almost all individuals with levels of activity increasing over time. At 6 months post-infection, individuals with bNAbs had significantly higher levels of ADCD and ADCT that correlated with antibody binding to C1q and FcγRIIa respectively. In addition, antibodies from individuals with bNAbs showed more IgG subclass diversity to multiple HIV antigens which also correlated with Fc polyfunctionality. Germinal center activity represented by CXCL13 levels and expression of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) was found to be associated with neutralization breadth, Fc polyfunctionality and IgG subclass diversity. Overall, multivariate analysis by random forest classification was able to group bNAb individuals with 85% sensitivity and 80% specificity based on the properties of their antibody Fc early in HIV infection. Thus, the Fc effector function profile predicted the development of neutralization breadth in this cohort, suggesting that intrinsic immune factors within the germinal center provide a mechanistic link between the Fc and Fab of HIV-specific antibodies., Author summary Some HIV-infected individuals develop antibodies that are capable of neutralizing the majority of HIV strains, a highly desirable function mediated by the antibody Fab portion. While antibodies elicited by current vaccines have failed to recreate this activity, the partial protection seen in the RV144 vaccine trial has been attributed to antibody Fc-mediated effector functions such as cell killing. In this study, we found that HIV-infected individuals who show a diversified and potent Fc response early in infection were more likely to develop broadly neutralizing antibodies later on. Examination of B cell functions associated with good germinal center activity, provided evidence for a common mechanistic link between the regulation of the Fc and Fab mediated activities in these individuals. Our finding of an Fc effector function profile that arises early and predicts neutralization breadth could be used in the evaluation of vaccine candidates designed to generate neutralizing antibodies. Common immune determinants associated with both Fab and Fc function could furthermore be exploited for vaccine design to harness the full potential of HIV-specific antibodies.

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) protect against HIV infection in non-human primates and their efficacy may be enhanced through interaction with Fc receptors on immune cells. Antibody isotype is a modulator of this binding with the IgG3 subclass mediating potent Fc effector function and is associated with HIV vaccine efficacy and HIV control. BNAb functions are typically assessed independently of the constant region with which they are naturally expressed. To examine the role of natural isotype in the context of a bNAb lineage we studied CAP256, an HIV-infected individual that mounted a potent V2-specific bNAb response. CAP256 expressed persistently high levels of plasma IgG3 which we found mediated both broad neutralizing activity and potent Fc function. Sequencing of germline DNA and the constant regions of V2-directed bNAbs from this donor revealed the expression of a novel IGHG3 allele as well as IGHG3*17, an allele that produces IgG3 antibodies with increased plasma half-life. Both allelic variants were used to generate CAP256-VRC26.25 and CAP256-VRC26.29 IgG3 bNAbs and these were compared to IgG1 versions. IgG3 variants were shown to have significantly higher phagocytosis and trogocytosis compared to IgG1 versions, which corresponded to increased affinity for FcγRIIa. Neutralization potency was also significantly higher for IgG3 bNAbs, particularly against viruses lacking the N160 glycan. By exchanging hinge regions between subclass variants, we showed that hinge length modulated both neutralization potency and Fc function. This study showed that co-operation between the variable and natural IgG3 constant regions enhanced the polyfunctionality of antibodies, indicating the value of leveraging genetic variation which could be exploited for passive immunity., Author summary In the only partially effective HIV vaccine trial to date, reduced risk of infection correlated with IgG3 antibodies that bound to the V2 region of the HIV envelope. IgG3 antibodies potently mediate the broadest range of Fc cytotoxic functions such as complement deposition, cellular lysis, engulfment and membrane nibbling. The relevance of different IgG3 alleles in antibody function is not typically examined, nor are antibodies usually assessed in the context of their natural isotype. Here we show that IgG3 V2-specific broadly neutralizing antibodies from donor CAP256 mediated both enhanced cytotoxic functions and neutralization potency compared to an IgG1 variant. We demonstrate that the long hinge region of IgG3 facilitated this increased functionality. These data suggest that isotype may be tuned to enhance both neutralization and cytotoxic activity of broadly neutralizing antibodies that can be used to improve the efficacy of passive immunization strategies for HIV prevention.

B cell receptor (BCR) sequencing is a powerful tool for interrogating immune responses to infection and vaccination, but it provides limited information about the antigen specificity of the sequenced BCRs. Here, we present LIBRA-seq (linking B cell receptor to antigen specificity through sequencing), a technology for high-throughput mapping of paired heavy- and light-chain BCR sequences to their cognate antigen specificities. B cells are mixed with a panel of DNA-barcoded antigens so that both the antigen barcode(s) and BCR sequence are recovered via single-cell next-generation sequencing. Using LIBRA-seq, we mapped the antigen specificity of thousands of B cells from two HIV-infected subjects. The predicted specificities were confirmed for a number of HIV- and influenza-specific antibodies, including known and novel broadly neutralizing antibodies. LIBRA-seq will be an integral tool for antibody discovery and vaccine development efforts against a wide range of antigen targets.

Background The integrin α4β7 mediates the trafficking of immune cells to the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and is an attachment factor for the HIV gp120 envelope glycoprotein. We developed a viral replication inhibition assay to more clearly evaluate the role of α4β7 in HIV infection and the contribution of viral and host factors. Results Replication of 60 HIV-1 subtype C viruses collected over time from 11 individuals in the CAPRISA cohort were partially inhibited by antibodies targeting α4β7. However, dependence on α4β7 for replication varied substantially among viral isolates from different individuals as well as over time in some individuals. Among 8 transmitted/founder (T/F) viruses, α4β7 reactivity was highest for viruses having P/SDI/V tri-peptide binding motifs. Mutation of T/F viruses that had LDI/L motifs to P/SDI/V resulted in greater α4β7 reactivity, whereas mutating P/SDI/V to LDI/L motifs was associated with reduced α4β7 binding. P/SDI/V motifs were more common among South African HIV subtype C viruses (35%) compared to subtype C viruses from other regions of Africa (