TRANSIENT PLANT EXPRESSION PLATFORM FOR THE PRODUCTION OF A RECOMBINANT GASTRIC CANCER ANTIGEN

  • Author
  • Andrei Stéfano Queiroz Gonçalves
  • Co-authors
  • Debora Cristina Viana Pereira , Marcela Alves de Oliveira , Beatriz Modesta Moreira , Dayanne Wysllate Araujo Ribeiro , Jade Dias Valente , Myrth Soares Do Nascimento Remígio , Paulo Pimentel De Assumpção , Maria Izabel Florindo Guedes , Lívia Érika Carlos Marques
  • Abstract
  • Introduction: Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease and is ranked as the second leading cause of death worldwide, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Conventional treatments such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy have limitations and can cause severe physical discomfort due to adverse effects. In this context, molecular studies and the discovery of biomarkers have been essential for the development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) applicable to immunotherapies and targeted therapies, offering a more personalized and less aggressive approach. However, the investment required for the development of such biologics is extremely high, and patents may last over 20 years, directly impacting treatment costs and limiting access to these medications. Therefore, it is necessary to implement more accessible platforms for the production of biologics to support research and the development of personalized therapeutic solutions. The transient plant expression platform using Nicotiana benthamiana leaves infiltrated with Agrobacterium tumefaciens represents an efficient alternative for the production of complex proteins and recombinant antigens, with cost-effective implementation, lower risk of contamination, scalable production, and rapid yield of the product of interest. Objectives: To establish the initial steps of a transient expression platform in Nicotiana benthamiana for the production of a recombinant gastric cancer antigen. Methods: The plant platform was implemented under controlled conditions (24?°C; 18?h photoperiod), and Nicotiana benthamiana growth was optimized through adjustments in humidity control and nutritional regimen, starting from the initial NPK 20-20-20 fertilizer formulation. The antigen sequence was retrieved from UniProt, and a search was conducted for distinct regions corresponding to the target isoform of interest in gastric cancer. SnapGene software was used to design the DNA construct optimized for cloning, and the sequence of interest was synthesized by the company GenScript. The recombinant antigen sequence was cloned into the binary vector pCaMGate-ER-ELP via LR Clonase reaction and transformed into E. coli DH10B. Recombinant clones were selected based on growth in LB medium containing 50?µg/mL kanamycin and confirmed by PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis. Plasmid DNA was purified using a miniprep protocol. Results: The platform supports the growth of up to 20 plants, which reach optimal leaf size and appearance for infiltration by the 5th or 6th week after germination. Selection of recombinant vector-containing clones was achieved through growth on selective medium. Additionally, clone confirmation was based on the expected 1100 bp amplicon of the expression cassette amplified by PCR. Conclusion: A methodological framework was established for binary vector construction and plant growth optimization, which comprise the initial stages of the plant expression platform. In the next steps, Agrobacterium tumefaciens will be transformed, followed by leaf agroinfiltration for antigen expression and purification. The production of a recombinant antigen is highly relevant to oncology research and may be applied to monoclonal antibody generation, phage display-based antibody fragment selection, molecular characterizations, and immunoassays.

  • Keywords
  • Molecular farming; Nicotiana benthamiana; tumor antigen; recombinant proteins; oncology.
  • Modality
  • Pôster
  • Subject Area
  • Experimental Research or Clinical Research
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It is with great enthusiasm that we present the Annals of the Oncology International Symposium 2025, an event that continues to solidify its significance in the oncology landscape of northern Brazil. Held in Belém, Pará, Oncology 2025 centered around the theme "The cancer control challenge: better knowing it to best facing it," dedicating itself to exploring the latest frontiers in cancer treatment and prevention.

This year, the symposium provided a deep dive into the essential role of knowledge in the fight against cancer, presenting new perspectives and scientific advancements across various areas of oncology. Renowned global experts gathered to share their most recent research and innovative approaches, offering participants a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.

Presentations and discussions during the event focused on critical topics such as the use of new technologies, advancements in personalized therapies, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, particular attention was given to the unique challenges faced by the Amazon region, with efforts aimed at developing region-specific solutions to meet local needs.

Beyond being a high-caliber academic event, Oncology 2025 stood out as a moment for integration and professional networking, with the warm hospitality of the city of Belém offering participants a unique experience. This event became a platform for exchanging ideas, where science, culture, and humanity came together in pursuit of a common goal: to improve cancer control both in Brazil and globally.

This collection of abstracts and articles presented during the event reflects the ongoing dedication to research and the development of innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in the fight against cancer.

General Submission Guidelines:

The presenting author, who does not have to be the first author, must be registered for Oncology 2025.
Each abstract may have up to 10 authors, including the main author and co-authors.
Only original, unpublished work will be accepted.
Submissions must be related to oncology. However, project descriptions, work proposals, experience reports, and literature reviews will not be considered.
Clinical case reports are allowed, provided the abstract addresses scientific questions, details clinical observations, and includes primary scientific data.
The abstract must be written in English, but presentations may be given in Portuguese.
Abstracts must be between 300 and 500 words.

  • Molecular Studies
  • Experimental Research or Clinical Research
  • Case Report or Epidemiology
  • Others

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See Annals of Oncology 2023 at:

https://www.even3.com.br/anais/oncology-2023-international-symposium/