ARTIFICIAL ANTIGEN PRODUCED USING PARTIAL SEQUENCE OF ENOLASE PROTEIN ORIGINATED FROM PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM, AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING SAME

Abstract

The invention provides a bioactive peptide including a partial amino acid sequence of Plasmodium falciparum enolase, and having a molecular structure compatible with a specification setting for a GMP-compliant production process. The peptide has a structure in which two peptides, each having an amino acid sequence of A01-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-A02 (SEQ ID NO: 1) or A03-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-Lys-Ser-Leu-Val-Lys-Thr-A04 (SEQ ID NO: 2) are linked by amide bonds between the respective carboxy termini of the two peptides and two amino groups of Lys in a linker peptide represented by Lys-A05-Cys-A06 and arranged in the form of a two-forked branch, wherein each of A01 to A06 represents an amino acid residue in a number of an arbitrary number including 0. The peptide preferably has a dimerized structure in which two of the above described peptides are linked by an S—S bond between the Cys residues in the linker peptide sequences included in the respective two peptides.

Claims

1. A peptide comprising a structure in which two peptides each consisting of (i) an amino acid sequence represented by: A01-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-A02 (SEQ ID NO: 1) or (ii) an amino acid sequence represented by: A03-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-Lys-Ser-Leu-Val-Lys-Thr-A04 (SEQ ID NO: 2) are linked by amide bonds between the respective carboxy termini of the two peptides and two amino groups of Lys in a linker peptide represented by the following (iii): (iii) Lys-A05-Cys-A06 and arranged in the form of a two-forked branch, wherein in the above (i), (ii), and (iii), A01 to A06 each represents an amino acid residue(s) in a number of an arbitrary number including 0.

2. The peptide according to claim 1, which is represented by the following (I) or (II): ##STR00010## wherein AD22 represents the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; and n represents an integer of 4 or 5.

3. A peptide comprising a dimerized structure in which two peptides each according to claim 1 are linked by an S—S bond between the Cys residues in the linker peptide sequences, each represented by the above (iii), included in the respective two peptides.

4. The peptide according to claim 3, which is represented by the following (I′) or (II′): ##STR00011## wherein AD22 represents the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1; and n represents an integer of 4 or 5.

5. A vaccine for inducing an immune response against malaria, wherein the vaccine comprises the peptide according to claim 1.

6. The vaccine according to claim 5, for inducing an immune response which blocks or inhibits an interaction between enolase and plasminogen, which interaction is caused by malaria infection.

7. The vaccine according to claim 5, wherein the malaria is malaria caused by an infection with a human or simian malaria parasite.

8. The vaccine according to claim 5, wherein the malaria is malaria caused by an infection with Plasmodium falciparum.

9. The vaccine according to claim 5, wherein the malaria is malaria caused by a mixed infection with Plasmodium falciparum and another human or simian malaria parasite.

10. Antigen-comprising microparticles produced by the steps of: mixing a solution of the peptide according to claim 1 with a volatile organic solvent comprising a biodegradable polymer to prepare an emulsion; and mixing the resulting emulsion with an aqueous solution of a negatively-charged polymer.

11. The antigen-comprising microparticles according to claim 10, wherein the biodegradable polymer is a polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer.

12. The antigen-comprising microparticles according to claim 10, wherein the biodegradable polymer is a polydepsipeptide.

13. A pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating a malaria parasite infection, wherein the composition comprises the antigen-comprising microparticles according to claim 10, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

14. A substance obtained by allowing the peptide according to claim 1 to bind to a solid phase surface of a film, latex particles, ultrafine metal particles or a plastic plate.

15. A test method for measuring malaria antibody titer in serum or plasma, the method comprising the step of measuring malaria antibody titer in serum or plasma, using the substance according to claim 14.

16. A method for analyzing the immune response to the peptide according to claim 1, the method comprising the step of measuring an antibody against the peptide according to claim 1, using the substance obtained by allowing the peptide according to claim 1 to bind to a solid phase surface of a film, latex particles, ultrafine metal particles or a plastic plate.

17. A method for measuring the antibody titer of an individual administered with the peptide according to claim 1, the method comprising the step of measuring an antibody against the peptide according to claim 1, using the substance obtained by allowing the peptide according to claim 1 to bind to a solid phase surface of a film, latex particles, ultrafine metal particles or a plastic plate.

18. A method for preventing or treating a malaria parasite infection, the method comprising the step of administrating the peptide according to claim 1 to a subject in need thereof.

19. A method for preventing or treating a malaria parasite infection, the method comprising the step of administrating the antigen-comprising microparticles according to claim 10 to a subject in need thereof.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0099] FIG. 1 shows the analysis results (a GPC chromatogram and a MALDI-TOF-MS spectrum) of an antigen peptide represented by Formula (A) obtained by a conventional method.

[0100] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the molecular structure of Plasmodium falciparum enolase, and a loop structure (the portion surrounded by the dotted in which a 35-residue sequence (amino acid numbers 254 to 288 in SEQ ID NO: 3: SEQ ID NO: 21) is located.

[0101] FIG. 3 shows an HPLC chromatogram of an antigen peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS).

[0102] FIG. 4 shows ESI-MS data of the antigen peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS).

[0103] FIG. 5 shows an HPLC chromatogram of an antigen peptide (In (AD22map2pal-SS).

[0104] FIG. 6 shows ESI-MS data of the antigen peptide (II′) (AD22map2pal-SS).

[0105] FIG. 7 is a light microscope photograph (drawing substitute photograph) of antigen-containing microparticles used fear immunization.

[0106] FIG. 8 is a graph showing the changes in IgG antibody titer against the peptide antigen, in the blood collected after immunization (at week 3, week 6, and week 9), in the immunized group (experimental group 1, left side in the figure) and the non-immunized group (experimental group 2, right side in the figure). In FIG. 8, absorbance in ELISA at a dilution of 250-fold was used, and values obtained by subtracting the absorbance value at week 0 from the absorbance values at respective weeks were plotted to prepare the graph.

[0107] FIG. 9 is a graph showing the changes in IgG antibody titer against the peptide antigen, in the blood collected after immunization (at week 3, and week 10), in the immunized group (experimental group 1, left side in the figure) and the non-immunized group (experimental group 2, right side in the figure). In FIG. 9, the absorbance in ELISA at a dilution of 250-fold was used, and values obtained by subtracting the absorbance value at week 0 from the absorbance values at respective weeks were plotted to prepare the graph.

[0108] FIG. 10 shows a comparison of amino acid sequences between P. falciparum enolase (GenBank accession number: AB026051) (SEQ ID NO: 3) and Human alpha enolase, GenBank accession number: M14328) (SEQ ID NO: 4). AI)22 is indicated with an underline, and AT28 is indicated with an underline and a dashed line.

[0109] FIG. 11 is a photograph (drawing substitute photograph) after staining with DAB reagent in a Dot-Blot measurement, for detecting the binding between each of the peptide 1 to peptide 8 and plasminogen. The numbers 1 to 8 in FIG. 11 indicate the locations at which peptide solutions of the peptide 1 to peptide 8 were dropped, respectively, and P indicates the locations at which plasminogen solutions (positive control) were dropped.

[0110] FIG. 12 is a photograph (drawing substitute photograph) of a plate after staining with TMB reagent in an ELISA measurement, for detecting the binding between each of the peptide 1 to peptide 8 and plasminogen. Each of the peptide 1 to peptide 8 was immobilized in each of the wells of the plate, and then allowed to react with plasminogen. Detection of binding was carried out by staining with an HRP modified-anti-plasminogen antibody and TMB reagent.

[0111] FIG. 13 is a graph of absorbance data (at 450 nm) taken after staining with TMB in an ELISA measurement, for detecting the binding between each of the peptide 1 to peptide 8 and plasminogen (plasminogen concentration: 1 μg/well).

[0112] FIG. 14 shows partial sequence structures of hitherto reported enolase molecules, illustrating the portions thereof involved in the binding of plasminogen. A partial peptide of P. falciparum (SEQ II) NO: 18), a partial peptide of Streptococcus pneumoniae enolase (SEQ ID NO: 19), and a partial peptide of Human α enolase (SEQ ID NO: 20).

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0113] The present invention will now be described in detail.

[0114] The present invention relates to the following peptide prepared based on a partial sequence of a protein derived from a malaria parasite.

[0115] A peptide having a structure in which two peptides each having (i) an amino acid sequence represented by: A01-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-A02 (SEQ ID NO: 1) or (ii) an amino acid sequence represented by: A03-Ala-Ser-Glu-Phe-Tyr-Asn-Ser-Glu-Asn-Lys-Thr-Tyr-Asp-Leu-Asp-Phe-Lys-Thr-Pro-Asn-Asn-Asp-Lys-Ser-Leu-Val-Lys-Thr-A04 (SEQ ID NO: 2) are linked by amide bonds between the respective carboxy termini of the two peptides and two amino groups of Lys in a linker peptide represented by the following (iii): [0116] (iii) Lys-A05-Cys-A06 [0117] and arranged in the form of a two-forked branch [0118] (wherein in the above (i), (ii), and (iii), A01 to A06 each represents an amino acid residue(s) in a number of an arbitrary number including 0).

[0119] The peptide shown in the Sequence Listing as SEQ ID NO: 1 is a peptide in which the numbers of amino acid residues in A01 and A02 in the sequence of (i) are both 0.

[0120] The peptide shown in the Sequence Listing as SEQ ID NO: 2 is a peptide in which the numbers of amino acid residues in A03 and A04 in the sequence of (ii) are both 0.

[0121] Each of A01 and A03 preferably consists of 0 to 10 amino acid residues, and the sequence thereof is not particularly limited as long as it does not affect the immune responsiveness of the resulting antigen peptide. However, it is more preferred that each of the A01 and A03 consist of 3 to 10 consecutive acidic amino acid residues (glutamic acid or aspartic acid) or basic amino acid residues (lysine, arginine or histidine), in order to increase the solubility of the entire peptide.

[0122] Each of A02 and A04 preferably consists of 0 to 10 amino acid residues, more preferably 1 to 5 amino acid residues, and the sequence thereof is not particularly limited as long as it does not affect the immune responsiveness of the resulting antigen peptide. However, each of A02 and A04 preferably has a sequence which allows for securing the degree of freedom of binding between each enolase peptide and the linker. Each of A02 and A04 may be, for example, Pro-Yaa or Lys-Yaa (Yaa is an amino acid residue having a high degree of freedom, such as Gly or Pro) Alternatively, each of A02 and A04 may be Pro-Yaa-Cys or Lys-Yaa-Cys.

[0123] A05 preferably consists of 0 to 10 amino acid residues, and the sequence thereof is not particularly limited as long as it does not affect the immune responsiveness of the resulting antigen peptide. However, it is more preferred that A05 consist of 3 to 10 consecutive acidic amino acid residues or basic amino acid residues, in order to increase the solubility of the resulting peptide.

[0124] A06 preferably consists of 0 to 10 amino acid residues and the sequence thereof is not particularly limited as long as it does not affect the immune responsiveness of the resulting antigen peptide. However, in the case of carrying out solid-phase synthesis on a resin, A06 preferably consists of amino acid residues including βA (β-alanine) at its carboxy terminus, as the first amino acid with a low steric hindrance. Alternatively, A06 may consist of βA. However, it can be substituted by another residue as long as the peptide synthesis reaction is not interfered with. Further, a modifying group for improving lipophilicity, such as palmitoyl group, may be added to a portion of amino acids constituting A06. For example, A06 may be Lys-βA. in which a modifying group is added to the side chain amino group of Lys. Addition of a lipophilic modified group is advantageous, because it is possible to expect an improvement in compatibility with a non-ionic surfactant (such as Tween or Span) used in the formulation of pharmaceuticals, or an improvement in antigenicity due to self-assembly. Instead of palmitoyl group, a highly lipophilic carboxylic acid can be bound by an amide bond, to serve as a suitable modifying group. Examples of such carboxylic acids include stearic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, cholic acid, and the like.

[0125] Examples of preferred embodiments of the peptide according to the present invention include a peptide represented by the following (I) or (II):

##STR00005##

[0126] In the above (I) and (II), E.sub.5 represents a sequence of five consecutive Glu residues, and AD22 represents the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. PG represents a Pro-Gly sequence, and G represents the portion of a Gly residue excluding the carboxyl group. Further, K at the branching site represents the portion of a Lys residue excluding two amino groups, and an E.sub.5-AD22-PG- sequence or an E.sub.5-AD22-PGC-sequence is bound to each of the two amino groups of the Lys residue. En represents a sequence of four or five consecutive Glu residues. En is preferably E.sub.4, which is a sequence of four consecutive Glu residues, namely, En *herein n is 4. C represents a Cys residue. The C terminus represents a βAla residue, or a sequence of a Lys residue whose side chain amino group is palmitoylated and a βAla residue. The N terminus is a non-protected amino group, and the C terminus is a non-protected carboxyl group, but each may have a protected group.

[0127] A more preferred embodiment of the present invention is a peptide having a dimerized structure in which two peptides described above are linked by an S—S bond between the Cys residues in the linker peptide sequences, each represented by the above (iii), included in the respective two peptides. In other words, it is preferred that the peptide represented by (i) or (ii) be dimerized by a peptide represented by (iii), and, the two of the dimerized peptides are further linked by an S—S bond between the Cys residues, to have a tetramerized structure.

[0128] Specific examples thereof include the following two types of peptide structures.

##STR00006##

[0129] In the above (I′), E.sub.5 represents a sequence of five consecutive Glu residues, and AD22 represents the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. PG represents a Pro-Gly sequence, and G represents the portion of a Gly residue excluding the carboxyl group. Further, K at the branching site represents the portion of a Lys residue excluding two amino groups, and an E.sub.5-AD22-PG-sequence is bound to each of the two amino groups of the Lys residue. En represents a sequence of four or five consecutive Glu residues. En is preferably E.sub.4, which is a sequence of four consecutive Glu residues, namely, En wherein n is 4. C represents the portion of a Cys residue excluding the mercapto group, and a state is shown in which a disulfide bond (—S—S—) is formed between the side chains of the two Cs. βA at the C terminus represents α βAla residue. The N terminus is a non-protected amino group, and the C terminus is a non-protected carboxyl group, but each may have a protected group.

##STR00007##

[0130] In the above (II′), E.sub.5 represents a sequence of five consecutive Glu residues, and AD22 represents the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. PGC represents a Pro-Gly-Cys sequence, and G represents the portion of a Gly residue excluding the carboxyl group. Further, K at the branching site represents the portion of a Lys residue excluding two amino groups, and an E.sub.5-AD22-PGC-sequence is bound to each of the two amino groups of the Lys residue. En represents a sequence of four or five consecutive Glu residues. En is preferably E.sub.4, which is a sequence of four consecutive Glu residues, namely, En wherein n is 4. C represents the portion of a Cys residue excluding the mercapto group, and a state is shown in which a disulfide bond (—S—S—) is formed between the side chains of the two Cs. -K-βA at the C terminus side represents a sequence of a Lys residue whose side chain amino group is palmitoylated and a βAla residue. The N terminus is a non-protected amino group, and the C terminus is a non-protected carboxyl group, but each may have a protected group.

[0131] These peptide structures can be produced based on a general method for synthesizing a peptide. More specifically, the peptide structures can be produced by a method described in Examples to be described later.

[0132] The present invention also provides microparticles containing any of the above described peptides, and a method for producing the same. The particle diameter of the microparticles is not particularly limited, and it can be adjusted depending on the application. However, the microparticles preferably have a particle diameter of from 100 nm to 50 μm.

[0133] The microparticles may be, for example, microparticles containing a bioactive substance and a biodegradable polymer, as those disclosed in JP 2009-256324 A, wherein the microparticles are prepared by: a step of mixing a volatile organic acid aqueous solution containing the bioactive substance or a volatile organic acid solution of the bioactive substance with a volatile organic solvent containing the biodegradable polymer to prepare an emulsion; and a step of mixing the resulting emulsion with an aqueous solution of a negatively-charged polymer. The biodegradable polymer to be used in the production of the microparticles is preferably a polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer or a polydepsipeptide. The volatile organic acid can be selected from organic compounds including a carboxylic acid group, Which are liquid at normal temperature. Examples thereof include acetic acid and formic acid. Other examples include: compounds which include a hydroxyl group as a functional group other than a carboxylic acid group, such as lactic acid; and compounds which include a plurality of carboxylic acid groups, such as fumaric acid, malonic acid, and malic acid; and the like. As the volatile organic solvent, an organic solvent which is volatile, which does not mix well with water, and which is capable of dissolving a biodegradable polymer is used. Preferred examples thereof include dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, diethyl ether, and the like. The negatively-charged polymer may be, for example, a polymer containing an oxygen atom. Preferred examples thereof include polyvinyl alcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, and polyethylene glycol. An example of the microparticles produced by the above mentioned production method is: a W/O/W-type emulsion or dried microparticles of the emulsion, whose outermost layer contains the negatively-charged polymer, Whose middle layer contains the biodegradable polymer, and whose inner layer contains the peptide according to the present invention; or alternatively, a W/O-type emulsion or dried microparticles of the emulsion, whose outer layer contains the negatively-charged polymer, and whose inner layer contains the biodegradable polymer and the peptide according to the present invention.

[0134] Further, the microparticles may be, for example, microparticles which allow the presentation of the peptide on the surface of the polymer, such as those disclosed in JP 2012-240940A.

[0135] The antigen peptide according to the present invention and the microparticles containing the antigen peptide may be used along with an adjuvant containing aluminum ions. Aluminum hydroxide gel (alum), which is a commonly used adjuvant, can be uniformly suspended with microparticles, and an effect provided by the adjuvant further enhances the antigenicity of the antigen peptide. For example, the selection of an optimal aluminum salt or the design of the microparticles can be performed, referring to Lindblad, Vaccine, 2004, Vol. 22, page 3658 to 3668, and references cited therein.

[0136] In addition, an adjuvant other than aluminum ions may be used in the present invention. The adjuvant may be incorporated into microparticles along with the antigen, or may be incorporated into saline. Incorporation of the adjuvant further enhances the antigenicity of the antigen peptide. For example, the selection of an optimum adjuvant or the design of the microparticles can be performed, referring to Guy, Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2007, Vol. 5, page 505 to 517, and reference cited therein.

[0137] Further, the antigen peptide according to the present invention and the microparticles containing the antigen peptide may be combined with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, to form a pharmaceutical composition. The carrier may be incorporated into the microparticles along with the antigen, or may be incorporated into saline. Examples of the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier include components which are acceptable in the formulation process, such as buffers, freeze-drying auxiliary agents, stabilizing auxiliary agents, solubilizing auxiliary agents, and antibacterial agents. Examples of the buffer include phosphate, citrate, sulfo sulfosalicylate, acetate, and the like. Examples of the freeze-drying auxiliary agent include mannitol, lactose, sorbitol, dextran, Ficoll, polyvinylpyrrolidin (PVP), and the like. Examples of the stabilizing auxiliary agent include ascorbic acid, cysteine, monothioglycerol, sodium hydrogen sulfite, sodium metabisulphite, gentisic acid, inositol, and the like. Examples of the solubilizing auxiliary agent include ethanol, glycerin, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monooleate, polysorbates, poly(oxyethylene) poly(oxypropylene) poly(oxyethylene) block copolymers (Pluronics), lecithin, and the like. Examples of the antibacterial agent include benzyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride, chlorbutanol, methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and the like.

[0138] The dosage form of the pharmaceutical composition is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include injectable solutions, oral preparations, liniments, and the like. Of these, an injectable solution is preferred. The injectable solution can be prepared by dissolving the microparticles in a diluent or the like, and adding to the resultant a stabilizer, a preservative, a buffer, and/or the like, as necessary.

[0139] A subject to be administered is a mammal infected with malaria, or a mammal having a risk of being infected or suspected to be infected with malaria. Specific examples thereof include humans, monkeys, mice, rats, and the like. The subject is preferably a human.

[0140] Examples of malaria include: malaria caused by a single infection with falciparum malaria parasite (P. falciparum); malaria caused by an infection with a human or simian malaria parasite; and malaria caused by a mixed infection with these parasites.

[0141] The dose of the pharmaceutical composition according to the present invention to a human varies depending on the age, sex, body weight and immune status of a subject, the method of administration, or the proportion of a bioactive substance contained in the pharmaceutical composition. However, the dosage is preferably from 1 μg to 200 mg per single administration.

[0142] The number of doses is not limited. When administered multiple times with regular intervals therebetween, an increase in and maintenance of antibody titer can be expected due to a boosting effect. The “regular interval” is preferably a period of time from two weeks to six months, and more preferably from three weeks to three months. The “multiple times” is preferably from two to 20 times, and more preferably from two to four times.

[0143] The method of administration is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include a method in which the antigen peptide, antigen peptide-containing microparticles, or a pharmaceutical composition in the form of microparticles containing the antigen peptide, is/are suspended, in saline, and the resultant is administered to a subject by an intramuscular injection, a subcutaneous injection or an intradermal injection to the upper arm of a subject. It is expected that this administration method allows the microparticles to penetrate into muscular tissue or the intradermal or subcutaneous portion of the site of administration, and the antigen peptide or a pharmaceutical preparation thereof is then taken up by immune cells, eventually inducing humoral immunity or cell-mediated immunity. This method has been conventionally used, and will probably continue to be widely used, because of its reliability.

[0144] Examples of the administration method other than the above include a method in which the suspension in saline is administered to the nasal cavity. The method of administration to the nasal cavity may be, for example, a method using a spray or a syringe, but not limited thereto. It is thought that the method of administration to the nasal cavity allows the antigen peptide to penetrate into the nasal mucosa, and the antigen peptide is then taken up by immune cells, eventually inducing humoral immunity or cell-mediated immunity. This nasal administration method is considered to be better in terms of safety, as compared to the method by a subcutaneous injection. Further, the nasal administration differs from the subcutaneous administration in that it is expected, in general, to induce a higher production of secretory IgA antibody in the mucous membrane. Accordingly, the nasal administration is considered as a suitable method for complementing the subcutaneous administration method, in the treatment of a parasitic infection, such as malaria, caused by parasites which proliferate in red blood cells.

[0145] Further, the administration method other than those described above, may be, for example, a subcutaneous or intradermal administration method using a dosage form referred to as a patch or a poultice, which is applied topically on the skin of the upper arm. It is expected that these administration methods allow the antigen peptide to penetrate into the intradermal or subcutaneous portion of the site of administration, and the antigen peptide is then taken up by immune cells, eventually inducing humoral immunity or cell-mediated immunity. These methods are considered to be better in terms of safety, as compared to the method by a subcutaneous injection. On the other hand, there remains a practical problem that whether all the antigen peptide in the pharmaceutical preparation is able to penetrate into the intradermal or subcutaneous portion of the administration site, as compared to the case of subcutaneous injection.

[0146] The bioactive peptide according to the present invention or a pharmaceutical composition containing the same can be used as an antigen for inducing an immune response, namely, as a vaccine. This allows for preventing an infection with or the development of malaria, improving the immunity of a patient to inhibit the progression of symptoms, or ameliorating the symptoms.

[0147] In the present invention, the term “immune response” is a concept which encompasses both a cell-mediated immune response and a humoral immune response. Of these, the cell-mediated immune response refers to an immune response induced, for example, by macrophages, natural killer cells (NK cells), eosinophils, and T-cells. As the cell-mediated immune response against P. jakiparum, an immune response in which killer T-cells are involved is known. As the humoral immune response, an immune response induced by host-derived antibodies capable of specifically binding to a protein or a sugar chain derived from P. falciparum is known. It is desirable that the antigen peptide produced according to the present invention induce antibodies, as the humoral immune response. Further, the immune response induced by the antigen peptide according to the present invention is preferably an immune response which blocks or inhibits the interaction between enolase and plasminogen, which interaction is caused by malaria infection.

[0148] The bioactive peptide according to the present invention can be used as a diagnostic testing material for diagnosis and testing of malaria, by allowing the bioactive peptide to bind to, immobilized on, or adsorbed on, a solid phase surface. In other words, as one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a substance for examination and diagnosis of malaria, which substance is obtained by allowing the peptide according to the present invention to bind to a solid phase surface. Examples of the solid phase surface include a film, latex particles, a plastic plate, microbeads, and the like, but not limited thereto. For example, the peptide compound according to the present invention in the form of a film can be prepared by a spin casting method, and it is possible to detect the presence of antibodies in a test sample by dropping the test sample on the film. The compound according to the present invention bound to latex particles can be prepared according to an emulsion polymerization method or a suspension polymerization method, and the compound can be used in an agglutination reaction. The immobilization of the peptide on a plastic plate or microbeads can be carried out, for example, by dropping an adequate amount of the compound according to the present invention adjusted to a concentration of 50 μg /0.1 mL into wells of the plastic plate, or by immersing the microbeads in the solution of the present invention adjusted to a concentration of 200 μg/0.1 mL. The laboratory diagnosis materials as described above are expected to be used in: the test for measuring malaria antibody titer in serum or plasma; the analysis of the immune response to the antigen peptide of the present invention; and the measurement of the antibody titer in an individual immunized with the antigen peptide of the present invention.

[0149] A summary will now be given below regarding: a pharmaceutical preparation which is used by suspending the bioactive peptide-containing microparticles or the pharmaceutical composition in the form of microparticles containing the bioactive peptide, in saline; and a kit of the pharmaceutical preparation; with reference to an example expected when applied to a human, in particular. However, the summary, the composition, and the properties of pharmaceutical preparations which are conceivable based on the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0150] For example, according to the method disclosed in JP 2009-256324 A, the microparticles can be prepared with an antigen content (weight of antigen/ weight of microparticles) of from about 0.1 μg/mg to 100 μg/mg. Practically, the antigen content is preferably within the range of from 1 μg/mg to 50 μg/mg, and more preferably within the range of from 1 μg/mg to 30 μg/mg, in terms of achieving a persistent antibody titer, and of preparing ideal microparticles capable of releasing antigen at a constant rate (zero-order release).

[0151] In general, one kit (2.0 mg of microparticles and 0.5 ML of saline) corresponds to a dose per administration for an adult. In general, the upper limit of the dose of an antigen is determined by a safety test using a rodent or a non-rodent. However, since the present preparation includes a peptide antigen having a relatively high safety, it is expected that the dose of the antigen per administration can be set within a wide range of from 1 μg to 200 μg. Practically, in terms of antibody titer persistence and production cost, the dose of the antigen per administration is preferably from 2 μg to 100 g, and more preferably from 4 μg to 60 μg

[0152] Further, the kit may be a pharmaceutical preparation kit consisting of two vials or ampoules separately containing microparticles and saline, or a kit consisting of an all-in-one pre-filled syringe, for the purpose of securing safety upon administration and/or avoiding the use of a preservative (such as thimerosal), but not litaited thereto.

[Summary Example of Pharmaceutical Preparation and Pharmaceutical Preparation Kit]

(a) Summary of Pharmaceutical Preparation

[0153] The present preparation includes as an antigen a 22-residue partial sequence of a glycolytic enzyme, enolase, derived from P. falciparum, which has been reported as an antigen involved in the convalescent phase of malaria, based on the epidemiological surveys in malaria endemic areas and in Japan. Further, the present preparation utilizes an intelligent material, which allows for a sustained release of the antigen from PLG (polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer) microparticles. This is based on an idea of reproducing an immune status similar to that of the residents in endemic area, who generally maintain immunity to malaria due to persistent infection. The antigen is encapsulated in microspheres of PLGA. (polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer).

[0154] The antigen is a chemically synthesized peptide antigen having a tandem structure in which four 22-residue peptides (AD22) are tandemly arranged, and has a structure represented by the above described Structural Formula (19). The present preparation is used as a liquid preparation prepared by suspending the microparticles in saline upon use. The antigen has been analyzed by a high performance liquid chromatograph and an amino acid analyzer during the production process, and confirmed to be the antigen having a structure represented by the Structural Formula (I′).

(b) Composition

[0155] One kit (5.0 mg of microparticles and 0.5 mL of saline) of the present preparation includes the following components. [0156] Effective ingredient: AD22 synthetic peptide antigen (I′): 50 μg. [0157] Additives: The microparticles are mostly composed of a polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer (about 5.0 mg) and contain a trace amount of polyvinyl alcohol which is coated on the surface of the particles. In addition, 4.25 mg of sodium chloride is contained in 0.50 mL of saline, so that the microparticles can be suspended in the saline.

(c) Properties of Microparticles

[0158] Appearance and properties: Colorless and odorless micro powder. [0159] Solubility: Easily dispersed in saline or purified water (usually used at a concentration of from 1 to 10 mg/0.1 mL). [0160] Hygroscopicity: Have no deliquescence due to the outer surface being coated by polyvinyl alcohol. [0161] Melting point and others: Soften at about 60° C. or higher due to being composed of a polymeric material. [0162] Other characteristic values: Observed by an electron microscope to be spherical microparticles having a particle size of from 0.1 to 40 μm. [0163] Quantification method of effective ingredient: The antigen content in the microparticles (weight of antigen/ weight of microparticles) is quantified from the CHN composition ratio obtained by a solvent extraction method (methylene chloride-aqueous solvent) or elemental analysis (the content in the present preparation is 10±1 μg/mg).

(d) Properties During Use

[0164] The present preparation is used as a liquid preparation prepared by suspending 5 mg of the microparticles in 0.5 mL of saline upon use. When the microparticles are suspended in saline and mixed by shaking, the resulting liquid preparation becomes uniformly clouded. [0165] pH: 5.5 to 8.0 [0166] Ratio of osmotic pressure (ratio with respect to saline solution): approximately 1

[0167] Next, an example in the case of administration to humans will be described below. However, the dose, the interval(s) between doses, and the number of doses are not limited thereto

[Potency or Effect]

(e) Potency or Effect/Usage and Dose

[0168] Prevention of aggravation of malaria infection: In general, a dose of 0.5 mL of the present preparation is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly, twice at an interval of four weeks, followed by another injection of 0.5 mL after the passage of 20 to 24 weeks. However, to an individual under 10 years old, a dose of 0.25 mL is injected subcutaneously, at the same dose intervals.

[0169] However, in cases where an inoculated subject failed to acquire active AD22 antibody, an additional injection(s) is/are administered.

**Note that an antibody test is to be carried out about one to two months after the third inoculation of the present preparation, and an additional inoculation(s) is/are to be considered to an inoculated subject who has failed to acquire AD22 antibody.

(f) Efficacy

[0170] Prevention of aggravation of malaria infection: AD22 antigen, P. falciparum-derived enolase

[0171] When adults and children negative for AD22 antibody are inoculated with 0.5 mL (0.25 mL, for those under 10 years old) of the present preparation three times, it is expected that most of the inoculated subjects become positive for AD22 antibody. Further, in the case of individuals infected with malaria in malaria endemic areas, it is expected to be able to delay the aggravation of the symptoms, and to prevent death due to delay in the start of treatment.

(g) Safety

[0172] Based on common cases, side reactions are expected in about 10% of the inoculated subjects. Primary side reactions expected include: topical pain, swelling, feeling of heat, feeling of fatigue, headache or dull headache, fever, and the like. It is considered that the present preparation is less likely to cause induration, which is often seen with the use of an alum adjuvant often used in a pre-existing vaccine, due to difference in components.

(h) Pharmacology

[0173] When malaria parasites enter the body of an individual who had been bitten by a mosquito that transmits malaria parasites, the parasites swiftly migrate into the liver cells. After a certain incubation period in the liver cells, the parasites proliferate in the liver cells, and are released into the blood stream in one of the forms of the parasites, called merozoites, and then invade red blood cells. The merozoites proliferate in the red blood cells, and are then released into the blood stream again as merozoites, and invade the red blood cells again. In this manner, the merozoites keep proliferating. The symptom of fever due to infection with malaria is induced by the intraerythrocytic cycle. In the case of an infection with Plasmodium falciparum, there is a higher risk of developing severe symptoms and of death when the start of treatment is delayed, as compared to malaria caused by other three species of malaria parasites. Infants and toddlers in endemic areas and travelers from non-endemic areas who do not have immunity are known to be particularly at a high risk of developing severe symptoms.

[0174] However, when the merozoites invade red blood cells, antibodies are also taken into the cells, at the same time. The antibodies taken up into the red blood cells prevent or inhibit the proliferation of the parasites, by blocking the enzyme reaction of enolase in the glycolytic pathway which produces the energy required for the proliferation of the parasites. At the same time, since enolase is known to be localized on the surface of a merozoite, it also seems probable that the antibodies react with the epitopes of enolase, thereby preventing or inhibiting the invasion of the parasites into red blood cells. These mechanisms of action as described above allow for delaying the aggravation of the symptoms when infected with malaria, and for preventing death due to delay in the start of treatment.

EXAMPLES

[0175] The present invention will now be further described in detail, with reference to Examples. However, the present invention is in no way limited to these Examples, as long as the gist of the present invention is not deviated.

[0176] Role of enolase and plasminogen in malaria parasite infection:

[0177] In recent years, it has been reported that the binding between plasminogen in human blood and enolase on the surface of the parasites facilitates the invasion of malaria parasite into a host [Ghosh A K, Coppens I, Gardsvoll H, Ploug M, Jacobs-Lorena M. Plasmodium ookinetes coopt mammalian plasminogen to invade the mosquito midgut. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2011, vol. 108, pp. 17153-17158; Bergmann S, Wild D, Diekmann O, Frank R., Bracht D, Chhatwal G S, Hammersclunidt S. Identification of a novel plasmin(ogen)-binding motif in surface displayed alpha-enolase of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Mol Microbiol. 49(2): 411-423, 003.; Ghosh A K, Jacobs-Lorena M. Surface-expressed enolases of Plasmodium and other pathogens. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 106(Suppl 1): 85-90, 2011.]. In other words, plasmin activity on the parasite surface, namely, proteolytic activity, is assumed to facilitate the invasion of parasites into host cells. However, cases reported in detail are only those in which the invasion of parasite ookinetes into the mid-gut of a mosquito is confirmed, and other expected cases of invasion, such as invasion into liver cells and red blood cells, have not been directly confirmed.

[0178] As described above, the present inventors have discovered that the molecule of P. falciparum-derived enolase strongly reacts with the serum of a patient having a certain immunity to falciparum malaria, based on epidemiological surveys, arid thus studied P. falciparum-derived enolase as a vaccine candidate. At first, the inventors assumed that IgG antibody would inhibit the action of an enzyme functioning in the energy production system in cells. Therefore, when IgG failed to migrate into cells, there was no valid explanation to account for the contradiction. In other words, it was unable to explain how the high anti-enolase antibody titer, which has been epidemiologically observed in residents in malaria endemic areas, is contributing to a reduction in the percentage of parasitism of malaria parasites.

[0179] Although, it was already known that enolase is expressed on the surface of merozoites, at the initial stage of the study [Kano S, Nakamura N, Murakami T, Ishikawa H, Suzuki M. Localization of 47kD antigenic polypeptides in malaria parasites by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Bioimages. 3(1): 13-17, 1995.], it was unable to explain, at that time, that why a glycolytic enzyme is observed on the parasite surface. Years of studies have finally led the present inventors to an idea that the high anti-enolase antibody titer, which has been epidemiologically observed in the residents in malaria endemic areas, may be responsible for inhibiting the binding between enolase on the surface of merozoite parasites and human plasminogen (and further, inhibiting the invasion of ookinetes and merozoites into host cells).

Plasminogen Binding Sites in Malaria Parasite Enolase:

[0180] Plasminogen is usually contained in plasma, and is activated by binding to a receptor protein. Plasminogen is a protein consisting of 791 residues, and one plasminogen includes five kringle domains and a serine protease domain. The kringle domain is composed of about 80 amino acids, and has a distinctive secondary structure including three sets of S—S crosslinking. It has been reported that, the binding of the receptor protein to the kringle domain causes the hydrolysis of the plasminogen activator site, to allow the development of plasmin activity, thereby facilitating the invasion of ookinetes into the mid-gut of a mosquito. [Ghosh A K, Coppens I, Gardsvoll H, Ploug M, Jacobs-Lorena M. Plasmodium ookinetes coopt mammalian plasminogen to invade the mosquito midgut. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2011, vol. 108, pp. 17153-17158.; Bergmann S, Wild D, Diekmann O, Frank R, Bracht D, Chhatwal G S, Hammerschmidt S. Identification of a novel plasmin(ogen)-binding motif in surface displayed alpha-enolase of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Mol. Microbiol. 2003, 49, 411-423.; Ghosh A K, Jacobs-Lorena M. Surface-expressed enolases of Plasmodium and other pathogens. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2011, 106(Suppl 1), 85-90.]

[0181] Based on the comparison of the reported sequences of enolase in other pathogenic microorganisms, the plasminogen binding sites in enolase are estimated to be, when converted into the amino acid sequence of malaria parasites, within the region of approximately from 260th to 285th amino acids. Surprisingly, the above region corresponds well with the AD22 sequence (Ala256-Asp277) and AT28 sequence (Ala256-Thr283) of the peptide antigen, whose reactivity with the serum of patients has been investigated by the present inventors [Nonaka R, Oku H., Sato K, Kano S., Suzuki M, Katakai R. Synthesis of Small Domain Peptides of Glycolytic Enzyme Enolase, Peptide Science 2000, T. Shioiri, Ed.; Protein Research Foundation: Osaka; pp. 301-304 (2001).].

[0182] As described above, the prior art was unable to account for the mechanism by which the high anti-enolase antibody titer, which has been epidemiologically observed in the residents in malaria endemic areas, contributes to a reduction in the percentage of parasitism of malaria parasites. However, the combination of recently reported cases and the study of the present inventors finally led to an idea that the anti enolase antibody may be responsible for inhibiting the binding between enolase on the surface of merozoite parasites and human plasminogen (and further, the invasion of ookinetes and merozoites into host cells). Therefore, the inventors carried out an experiment to confirm the presence or absence of plasminogen binding sites in the antigen sequence they have been studying.

Reference Example 1

[0183] A peptide library of peptides 1 to 8 (SEQ ID NOs: 10 to 17), which are divided peptides obtained from a 35-residue sequence of 254th to 288th residues (FIG. 2) of the amino acid sequence of the parasite enolase, was used. Each of the peptides of the peptide library was allowed to react with plasminogen using a Dot-Blot method and an ELISA method, thereby carrying out a search for an amino acid sequence recognized by plasminogen.

Reactivity of Peptide Library with Plasminogen, Measured by Dot-Blot Method:

[0184] The reactivity of the peptides was measured by a Dot-Blot method, using a 10% acetonitrile solution of each of 8 types of peptides, peptide 1 to peptide 8, by the following steps in the following order; (a) immobilization of each peptide on a nitrocellulose film (pore size: 0.45 μm); (b) reaction with plasminogen in a plasminogen solution; (c) reaction with an HRP-labeled anti-plasminogen antibody; and (d) DAB staining. The photograph of the nitrocellulose film after the DAB staining is shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. As a result of the measurement, the binding of peptide chains with plasminogen was observed in the peptides 2, 3, 7 and 8.

Reactivity of Peptide Library with Plasminogen, Measured by ELISA Method:

[0185] Next, in order to digitize and quantify the reaction of the peptide library with plasminogen, the detection of binding by an ELISA method was carried out. The results are shown in FIG. 13. It can be seen from the measurement result that a relatively high reactivity with plasminogen was observed in the peptides 3 and 5, which are 10-residue peptide sequences. Further, a high reactivity with plasminogen was observed in the peptide 7 which is a 25-residue peptide sequence, and in the peptide 8 which is a 35-residue peptide sequence. It was found out that, among the 10-residue peptides in the library, the highest reactivity with plasminogen was observed in the peptide 3.

Discussion on Data Obtained by Dot-Blot and ELISA Methods:

[0186] The ELISA measurement revealed that the peptide 3 has the highest reactivity with plasminogen, among the 10-residue peptides in the library. When the sequence of the peptide 3 is compared with the sequences which have been reported, in previous studies, to inhibit the binding with plasminogen or to bind to plasminogen, it can be seen that the YDLDFKT sequence, which is the latter portion of the sequence of the peptide 3, has a relatively high homology with the sequences of other species. Thus this sequence is thought to be a common plasminogen binding site. On the other hand, the NKT sequence, which is the first portion of the sequence of the peptide 3, is deleted in the sequences of other species. Thus, this sequence is thought to be a plasminogen binding site specific to P. falciparum (FIG. 14).

[0187] In general, the NKT sequence (present in the peptide 3) is a sequence to which an N-linked sugar chain binds, depending on the species. Thus, there arises a question that the confirmation of the presence or absence of glycosylation in the parasite enzyme may be necessary. However, the analysis results of SDS-PAGE (446 residues, 47kD) and western-blotting proved the absence of glycosylation in P. falciparum enolase. In fact, it has been reported that N-linked and O-linked sugar chains were hardly found in P. falciparum or found in an extremely low level [Dieckmann-Schuppert A, Bender S, Odenthal-Schnittler M, Bause E, Schwarz R T. Apparent lack of N-glycosylation in the asexual intraerythrocytic stage of Plasmodium falciparum. Eur J Biochem.1992, 205, 815-825.; Gowda D C, Davidson E A. Reply. Parasitol Today. 2000, 16, 39-40.]. Accordingly, protein glycosylation observed in P. falciparum is GPI anchor glycosylation [Gowda D C, Davidson E A. Protein glycosylation in the malaria parasite. Parasitol Today. 1999, 15, 147-152.; von ltzstein M, Plebanski M, Cooke B M, Coppel R L. Hot, sweet and sticky: the glycobiology of Plasmodium falciparum. Trends Parasitol, 2008, 24, 210-218.]. It is thought that enolase on the surface of a merozoite or an ookinete is presented by a GPI anchor mediated by the 432th Asn residue located in the vicinity of the C terminus of the protein.

[0188] Thus, the study of the present inventors led to an idea that the high anti-enolase antibody titer, which has been epidemiologically observed in the residents in malaria endemic areas, may be, for example, responsible for inhibiting the binding between enolase on the surface of the merozoite parasites and human plasminogen (and further, the invasion of ookinetes and merozoites into host cells).

[0189] Detailed descriptions are given below regarding the production methods of an antigen peptide (I′) and an antigen peptide (II′), which are embodiments of the present invention, in Example 1. Detailed descriptions regarding the analysis data of the antigen peptide (I′) and antigen peptide (II′) are given in Example 2 and Example 3. Details regarding the preparation method of antigen-containing microparticles are given in Example 3, and details regarding the immunization with the antigen-containing microparticles are given in Example 4. However, the present invention is not limited by specific examples shown below, and alterations can of course be made. For example, a known biodegradable polymer other than those specified can be used as the polymer, and the amount and the concentration of the solution of the polymer can be adjusted as appropriate. Further, an antigen or microparticles other than those specified can be used in the antigen-containing microparticles, and the dose, and the amount and concentration of the solution can be adjusted as appropriate.

Example 1

Synthesis method for the antigen peptide (I′) and the antigen peptide (II′)

[0190] Synthesis schemes for synthesizing the antigen peptide (I′) and the antigen peptide (II′) are exemplified below (E.sub.5-AD22-PG: SEQ ID NO: 6; E.sub.5-AD22-PGC: SEQ II) NO: 7; K-E.sub.4-C: SEQ ID NO: 8; and K-E.sub.4-CK: SEQ ID NO: 9).

[0191] An example of production scheme of novel antigen peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS)

##STR00008##

[0192] An example of production scheme of novel antigen peptide (II′) o(AD22map2pal-SS)

##STR00009##

[0193] First, a monomer of each of the antigen peptide (I′) and antigen peptide (II′) (AD22map2 and AD22map2pal, respectively) was prepared by a common Fmoc peptide synthesis method. In the Fmoc peptide synthesis method, a Finoc-βAla-PEG resin (the amount of Fmoc amino acid introduced into the resin is defined herein as 1 eq), which is a resin into which the first amino acid is introduced in advance by an ordinary method, was used. For the deprotection of the Fmoc group, 2% DBU/DMF (or 30% piperidinei DMF) was used, and an Fmoc amino acid (10 eq), HCTU, HOBt (10 eq), and DMA (20 eq) were used for condensation. The condensation was carried out for 30 min to extend the peptide chain.

[0194] After completing the extension to a full amino acid sequence, TFA: water: TIS: ethanedithiol=95:2.5:2.5:2.5 as a cleavage cocktail was added to the peptide-carrying resin, to cleave the peptide from the resin. Subsequently the filtrate was collected, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The resultant was then formed into a powder with diethyl ether, to obtain a crude product.

[0195] The identification of the crude product was carried out by HPLC and ESI-MS, followed by purification by solid-phase extraction, using Sep-Pak Vac 20 cc (5 g) (manufactured by Waters Corporation). Specifically, a 10% MeCNaq (0.1% TFA) solution of a sample was loaded onto a Sep-Pak column, and then solid-phase extraction was carried out, using a MeCN aqueous solution (0.1% TFA) as an elution solvent in an amount of 50 mL each at a gradient of from 20% to 30%.

[0196] After confirming the fraction of the product of interest by HPLC, the product of interest was obtained by freeze-drying. Subsequently, using a solution of the product of interest, formation of disulfide bonds by oxidation of iodine was carried out. The resulting solution was subjected to purification again, to finally obtain an antigen peptide.

Example 2

Analysis Data of Antigen Peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS)

[0197] Appearance: white, freeze-dried product [0198] Amino acid analysis values: (hydrolysis conditions: 6 M HCl aq. (with Phenol) 110° C., 22 hrs) [0199] Asp (28) 28.00, Thr (8) 7.78, Ser (8) 7.21, Glu (36) 35. 62, Gly (4) 4.02, Ala (4) 4.00, Cys (2) 1.36, Leu (4) 4.03, Tyr (8) 8.00, Lys (10)10.07, NE13 (16) 18. 08, Pro (8) 8.18, Phe (8)+β-Ala (2) 10.01. [0200] Purity (HPLC): 96.3% (FIG. 3) [0201] Analysis conditions: Column, Zorbax 300SB-C18 (4.6×150 mm); Eluant: 10 to 60% MeCN/0,1% TFA (25 min); Temp.: 50° C.; Flow rate: 1.0 mlimin; Detector; 220 nm; Load: 4 μL (0.28 mg/0.560 mL 50% AcOH). [0202] ESI-MS: MW=15249.3 (theoretical value: 15249.3) (FIG. 4) [0203] Measurement condition [0204] Apparatus: HP 1100 series LC/MSD, manufactured by Agilent Technologies [0205] Sample concentration: 1 nmol/5 micro-L [0206] Diluting solvent: 50% MeCN/H.sub.2O:1 N NH.sub.3 aq.=95:5

Example 3

Analysis Data of Antigen Peptide (II′) (AD22map2pal-SS)

[0207] Appearance: white, freeze-dried product [0208] Amino acid analysis values: (hydrolysis conditions: 6 M HCl aq. (with Phenol) 110° C., 22 hrs) [0209] Asp (28) 27.96, Thr (8) 7.75, Ser (8) 7.21, Glu (36) 35.70, Gly (4) 4.01, Ala (4) 4.00, Cys (2) 1.90, Leu (4) 4.04, Tyr (8) 7.81, Lys (12) 11.99, NH3 (16) 17. 21, Pro (8) 8.20, Phe (8)+β-Ala (2) 9.98 [0210] Purity (HPLC): 96.4% (FIG. 5) [0211] Analysis conditions: Column, Zorbax 300SB-C18 (4.6×150 mm); Eluant: 30-80% MeCN/0.1% TFA (25min); Temp.: 50° C.; Flow rate: 1.0 ml/min; Detector: 220 nm; [0212] Load: 8 (0.32 mg/0.320 mL 50% AcOH). [0213] ESI-MS: MW=15982.2 (theoretical value: 15982.5) (FIG. 6) [0214] Measurement condition [0215] Apparatus: HP 1100 series LC/MSD, manufactured by Agilent Technologies [0216] Sample concentration: 1 nmol/5 micro-L [0217] Diluting solvent: 50% MeCN/H.sub.2O:1 N NH.sub.3 aq.=95:5

Example 4

Preparation of Antigen-Containing Microparticles

[0218] In this experiment, the antigen peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS) was used as the antigen, and antigen-containing microparticles were prepared by a method disclosed in JP 2009-256324 A. Specifically, the antigen-containing microparticles were prepared by a method including the steps of: mixing a solution containing an antigenic substance or a suspension containing an antigenic substance with a volatile organic solvent containing a biodegradable polymer; and further mixing the resulting mixed liquid with an aqueous solution of a negatively-charged polymer (FIG. 7). In the above described method, a poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) copolymer (PLGA 7520, manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.; composition ratio of lactic acid: glycolic acid 75:25) having an average molecular weight of 20,000 was used as the biodegradable polymer, and a 0.5% aqueous solution of polyvinyl alcohol was used as the aqueous solution of a negatively-charged polymer. The amount of antigen per unit weight of the microparticles was calculated from the CHN weight ratio obtained by elemental analysis, and determined to be 24 micro-g/mg.

Example 5

Immunization with Antigen-Containing Microparticles

[0219] In this Example, a detailed description will be given regarding the effect obtained in the case of immunizing Balb/c mice with the antigen-containing microparticles. Specifically, ten mice (female Balb/c mice) were immunized once, and blood was collected from each of the mice at week 3, week 6, and week 9 after the immunization, and the measurement of antibody titer in the serum of the collected blood was carried out.

[0220] Immunization experiment was carried out for the following two experimental groups (female Balb/c mice, five mice in each section). To each of the five mice in the group to be administered with the antigen, the antigen-containing microparticles prepared in Example 4 were administered subcutaneously in an amount of 10 μg in terms of the amount of antigen, thereby carrying out the immunization. [0221] [Experimental group 1] To each of the mice, a suspension prepared by suspending the microparticles (0.41 mg) containing 10 μg of the antigen, in 200 μL of saline, was administered (immunized group). [0222] [Experimental group 2] To each of the mice, 200 μL of an aqueous saline solution alone was administered (non-immunized group).

[0223] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 show the changes in the IgG antibody titer against the antigen peptide (I′) (AD22map2-SS) in the blood collected after the immunization (at week 3, week 6, week 9, and week 10), of the mice in the immunized group and the non-immunized group. The values of absorbance in ELISA at a dilution of 250-fold were plotted. The plot of absorbance is known to be approximately proportional to the plot of logarithm of the weight of the antibody.

[0224] The results shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 revealed that, although immunization was carried out only once in the present Example, a statistically significant increase in the IgG antibody titer was observed in the mice in the immunized group, surprisingly, as compared to the non-immunized group. Therefore, in the present method, an increase in the IgG antibody titer against the peptide antigen was observed, in addition to a sustained increase in the antibody titer caused by the antigen-containing microparticles, and an immune effect due to parasite infection. The plot of absorbance is known to be approximately proportional to the plot of logarithm of the weight of the antibody.

[0225] Further, as an example of an additional experiment, it is possible to examine the effect of inhibiting parasite proliferation in vitro, for example, by adding the mouse antiserum obtained in Example 5 to a culture system of P. falciparum, at a dilution of 10-fold, 20-fold, and 200-fold. At this time, it is expected that an increased dilution ratio of the serum results in a decreased effect of inhibiting the rate of proliferation. This is a practically and generally used method, and it can be easily carried out in the present Example.

[0226] Still further, as an example of an additional experiment, it is possible to examine the effect of inhibiting parasite proliferation in vivo, or the effect of delaying or preventing the aggravation of symptoms or death in mice due to malaria infection, for example, by carrying out an infection experiment by abdominal administration of a lethal strain of a mouse malaria parasite (Plasmodium berghei ANKA, the number of parasites: 1×10.sup.6) to the mice in Example 5. At this time, it is expected that an increased antibody titer results in a reduced rate of proliferation. This is a practically and generally used method, and it can be easily carried out in the present Example.

[0227] Based on the above described Examples regarding the production of the antigen peptide, the production of the antigen-containing microparticles, and the animal experiment utilizing immune reactions in mice, it has become possible to find out a method for delaying or preventing the aggravation of symptoms or death in humans due to malaria infection, by using the antigen peptide according to the present invention. In addition, based on the above Examples and the study results of the present inventors, it has become possible to device a method for applying bioactive peptide for inducing an immune reaction in a human, which method allows for induction of an immune response against malaria parasites in humans, which has been hitherto impossible.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0228] The present invention can be used in pharmaceuticals, reagents and the like.