101
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Ayrignac X, Carra-Dalliere C, Menjot de Champfleur N, Denier C, Aubourg P, Bellesme C, Castelnovo G, Pelletier J, Audoin B, Kaphan E, de Seze J, Collongues N, Blanc F, Chanson JB, Magnin E, Berger E, Vukusic S, Durand-Dubief F, Camdessanche JP, Cohen M, Lebrun-Frenay C, Brassat D, Clanet M, Vermersch P, Zephir H, Outteryck O, Wiertlewski S, Laplaud DA, Ouallet JC, Brochet B, Goizet C, Debouverie M, Pittion S, Edan G, Deburghgraeve V, Le Page E, Verny C, Amati-Bonneau P, Bonneau D, Hannequin D, Guyant-Maréchal L, Derache N, Louis Defer G, Moreau T, Giroud M, Guennoc AM, Clavelou P, Taithe F, Mathis S, Neau JP, Magy L, Devoize JL, Bataillard M, Masliah-Planchon J, Dorboz I, Tournier-Lasserve E, Levade T, Boespflug Tanguy O, Labauge P. Adult-onset genetic leukoencephalopathies: A MRI pattern-based approach in a comprehensive study of 154 patients. Brain 2014; 138:284-92. [DOI: 10.1093/brain/awu353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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102
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Small fiber neuropathy in a woman with fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). J Neurol 2014; 262:226-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7597-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Revised: 11/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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103
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Renaud M, Perriard J, Coudray S, Sévin-Allouet M, Marcel C, Meissner WG, Chanson JB, Collongues N, Philippi N, Gebus O, Quenardelle V, Castrioto A, Krack P, N'Guyen K, Lefebvre F, Echaniz-Laguna A, Azulay JP, Meyer N, Labauge P, Tranchant C, Anheim M. Relevance of corpus callosum splenium versus middle cerebellar peduncle hyperintensity for FXTAS diagnosis in clinical practice. J Neurol 2014; 262:435-42. [PMID: 25451852 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7557-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is caused by FMR1 premutation. The features include ataxia, action tremor and middle cerebellar peduncle (MCP) hyperintensity, the latter being the only major radiological criterion in the diagnosis of definite FXTAS until very recently. The importance of corpus callosum splenium (CCS) hyperintensity was recently reported and this sign is now considered as an additional major radiological diagnostic criterion in the diagnosis of FXTAS. However, little is known about its relevance for the diagnosis of FXTAS in clinical practice. We report a practical justification of the relevance of CCS hyperintensity in parallel with MCP hyperintensity for the diagnosis of FXTAS. Clinical and radiological study of 22 FMR1 premutation carriers with neurological signs that may be encountered in FXTAS compared to series of patients with essential tremor, multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and stroke. Among the 22 patients with FMR1 premutation [17 men, 5 women; mean age, 63 ± 7.5 (46-84)], 14 were diagnosed with definite FXTAS with the initial criteria. Considering CCS hyperintensity as a new major radiological criterion permitted the diagnosis of definite FXTAS in 3 additional patients. Overall CCS proved as frequent as MCP hyperintensity (64 versus 64 %), while 23 % of patients had CCS but not MCP hyperintensity, 14 % of patients had CCS hyperintensity but neither MCP, nor brainstem hyperintensity. In contrast with CCS hyperintensity, MCP hyperintensity proved less frequent in women than in men. CCS and MCP hyperintensity were more frequent in FXTAS than in the other neurodegenerative disorders. The combination of CCS and MCP hyperintensity was specific of FXTAS. We confirmed the relevance of CCS hyperintensity in FXTAS and we clarified its interest compared to MCP hyperintensity. Our results support the inclusion of CCS hyperintensity in the diagnostic criteria as a new major radiological criterion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Renaud
- Département de Neurologie, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 1 Avenue Molière, 67098, Strasbourg Cedex, France
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104
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Jalnapurkar I, Rafika N, Tassone F, Hagerman R. Immune mediated disorders in women with a fragile X expansion and FXTAS. Am J Med Genet A 2014; 167A:190-7. [PMID: 25399540 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.36748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Premutation alleles in fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) can cause the late-onset neurodegenerative disorder, fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and/or the fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency in approximately 20% of heterozygotes. Heterozygotes of the FMR1 premutation have a higher incidence of immune mediated disorders such as autoimmune thyroid disorder, especially when accompanied by FXTAS motor signs. We describe the time course of symptoms of immune mediated disorders and the subsequent development of FXTAS in four women with an FMR1 CGG expansion, including three with the premutation and one with a gray zone expansion. These patients developed an immune mediated disorder followed by neurological symptoms that become consistent with FXTAS. In all patients we observed a pattern involving an initial appearance of disease symptoms-often after a period of heightened stress (depression, anxiety, divorce, general surgery) followed by the onset of tremor and/or ataxia. Immune mediated diseases are associated with the manifestations of FXTAS temporally, although further studies are needed to clarify this association. If a cause and effect relationship can be established, treatment of pre-existing immune mediated disorders may benefit patients with pathogenic FMR1 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Jalnapurkar
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
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105
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Lozano R, Rosero CA, Hagerman RJ. Fragile X spectrum disorders. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2014; 3:134-46. [PMID: 25606363 PMCID: PMC4298643 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2014.01022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fragile X mental retardation 1 gene (FMR1), which codes for the fragile X mental retardation 1 protein (FMRP), is located at Xp27.3. The normal allele of the FMR1 gene typically has 5 to 40 CGG repeats in the 5' untranslated region; abnormal alleles of dynamic mutations include the full mutation (> 200 CGG repeats), premutation (55-200 CGG repeats) and the gray zone mutation (45-54 CGG repeats). Premutation carriers are common in the general population with approximately 1 in 130-250 females and 1 in 250-810 males, whereas the full mutation and Fragile X syndrome (FXS) occur in approximately 1 in 4000 to 1 in 7000. FMR1 mutations account for a variety of phenotypes including the most common monogenetic cause of inherited intellectual disability (ID) and autism (FXS), the most common genetic form of ovarian failure, the fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI, premutation); and fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS, premutation). The premutation can also cause developmental problems including ASD and ADHD especially in boys and psychopathology including anxiety and depression in children and adults. Some premutation carriers can have a deficit of FMRP and some unmethylated full mutation individuals can have elevated FMR1 mRNA that is considered a premutation problem. Therefore the term "Fragile X Spectrum Disorder" (FXSD) should be used to include the wide range of overlapping phenotypes observed in affected individuals with FMR1 mutations. In this review we focus on the phenotypes and genotypes of children with FXSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reymundo Lozano
- UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Reymundo Lozano, UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA. E-mail:
| | - Carolina Alba Rosero
- Instituto Colombiano del Sistema Nervioso, Clínica Montserrat, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
| | - Randi J Hagerman
- UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
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106
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Memantine effects on verbal memory in fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS): a double-blind brain potential study. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:2760-8. [PMID: 24871547 PMCID: PMC4200486 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Older FMR1 premutation carriers may develop fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), a neurodegenerative disorder manifesting cognitive deficits that often subsequently progress to dementia. To date, there is no specific treatment available for FXTAS. Studies have demonstrated the premutation-associated overactivation of glutamatergic receptors in neurons. Memantine, a NMDA receptor antagonist approved for treatment of Alzheimer's disease, thus was tested in the first placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial in FXTAS. Prior event-related brain potential (ERP) studies in FXTAS found reduced N400 repetition effect, a glutamate-related electrophysiological marker of semantic priming, and verbal memory processes. This substudy of the randomized clinical trial of memantine in FXTAS sought to use the N400 repetition effect to evaluate effects of chronic memantine treatment on verbal memory. Subsequent recall and recognition memory tests for the experimental stimuli were administered to characterize verbal memory. Data from 41 patients who completed the 1-year memantine trial (21 on memantine) and also completed longitudinal ERP studies were analyzed. Results showed treatment-associated benefits on both cued-recall memory and N400 repetition effect amplitude. Importantly, improvement in cued recall was positively correlated with amplitude increase of the N400 repetition effect. The placebo group, in contrast, displayed a significant reduction of the N400 repetition effect after 1 year. These results suggest that memantine treatment may have beneficial effects on verbal memory in FXTAS. Additional studies of memantine, perhaps in combination with other therapeutic agents, appear warranted, as symptomatic treatments and neuroprotective treatments are both needed for this recently recognized neurodegenerative disorder.
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107
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Muzar Z, Adams PE, Schneider A, Hagerman RJ, Lozano R. Addictive substances may induce a rapid neurological deterioration in fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome: A report of two cases. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2014; 3:162-5. [PMID: 25606366 PMCID: PMC4298646 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2014.01023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A debilitating late-onset disorder of the premutation in the FMR1 gene is the neurodegenerative disorder fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). We report two patients with FXTAS who have a history of substance abuse (opiates, alcohol, and cocaine) which may have exacerbated their rapid neurological deterioration with FXTAS. There has been no case report regarding the role of substance abuse in onset, progression, and severity of FXTAS symptoms. However, research has shown that substance abuse can have a negative impact on several neurodegenerative diseases, and we propose that in these cases, substance abuse contributed to a faster progression of FXTAS as well as exacerbated white matter disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zukhrofi Muzar
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Patrick E. Adams
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Randi J. Hagerman
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Randi J. Hagerman, MIND Institute, UC Davis Health System, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA. E-mail:
| | - Reymundo Lozano
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
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108
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Muzar Z, Lozano R. Current research, diagnosis, and treatment of fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2014; 3:101-9. [PMID: 25606360 PMCID: PMC4298640 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2014.01029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is caused by a premutation CGG-repeat expansion in the 5'UTR of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene. The classical clinical manifestations include tremor, cerebellar ataxia, cognitive decline and psychiatric disorders. Other less frequent features are peripheral neuropathy and autonomic dysfunction. Cognitive decline, a form of frontal subcortical dementia, memory loss and executive function deficits are also characteristics of this disorder. In this review, we present an expansion of recommendations for genetic testing for adults with suspected premutation disorders and provide an update of the clinical, radiological and molecular research of FXTAS, as well as the current research in the treatment for this intractable complex neurodegenerative genetic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zukhrofi Muzar
- UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Reymundo Lozano
- UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Reymundo Lozano, UC Davis MIND Institute and Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA. E-mail:
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109
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Fraint A, Vittal P, Szewka A, Bernard B, Berry-Kravis E, Hall DA. New observations in the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) phenotype. Front Genet 2014; 5:365. [PMID: 25368631 PMCID: PMC4201107 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) was originally defined as tremor, ataxia, cognitive decline, and parkinsonism in individuals who carry between 55 and 200 CGG repeats in the promoter region of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene. This paper describes a series of patients who meet the definition of FXTAS who presented for care between 2009 and 2014. Methods/Results: Retrospective chart review of patients seen in the FXTAS clinic at Rush University in Chicago. Conclusions: Patients with FXTAS may present with a progressive supranuclear palsy-like phenotype and other eye movement abnormalities are common in these patients as well. Rapid worsening of gait abnormalities in FXTAS may be due to a secondary spinal issue and should be aggressively treated to regain function. Finally, the FXTAS Rating Scale score does not reliably inform the certainty of diagnosis or CGG repeat size in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avram Fraint
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Padmaja Vittal
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aimee Szewka
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bryan Bernard
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurological Sciences and Biochemistry, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Deborah A Hall
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Chicago, IL, USA
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110
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Abstract
The basal ganglia were originally thought to be associated purely with motor control. However, dysfunction and pathology of different regions and circuits are now known to give rise to many clinical manifestations beyond the association of basal ganglia dysfunction with movement disorders. Moreover, disorders that were thought to be caused by dysfunction of the basal ganglia only, such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease, have diverse abnormalities distributed not only in the brain but also in the peripheral and autonomic nervous systems; this knowledge poses new questions and challenges. We discuss advances and the unanswered questions, and ways in which progress might be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose A Obeso
- Movement Disorders Laboratory, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Area, Clínica Universitaria and Medical School, and CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Redes sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Maria C Rodriguez-Oroz
- Centro de Investigación en Redes sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Department of Neurology, University Hospital Donostia and Neuroscience Unit BioDonostia Research Institute, San Sebastian, Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Maria Stamelou
- Movement Disorders Clinic, Second Department of Neurology, Attiko Hospital, University of Athens, Greece; Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Kailash P Bhatia
- Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - David J Burn
- Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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111
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Hall DA, Birch RC, Anheim M, Jønch AE, Pintado E, O'Keefe J, Trollor JN, Stebbins GT, Hagerman RJ, Fahn S, Berry-Kravis E, Leehey MA. Emerging topics in FXTAS. J Neurodev Disord 2014; 6:31. [PMID: 25642984 PMCID: PMC4141265 DOI: 10.1186/1866-1955-6-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper summarizes key emerging issues in fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) as presented at the First International Conference on the FMR1 Premutation: Basic Mechanisms & Clinical Involvement in 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Hall
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rachael C Birch
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mathieu Anheim
- Département de Neurologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Hôpital de Hautepierre, 67098 Strasbourg, Cedex, France ; Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), INSERM-U964/CNRS-UMR7104/Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France ; Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Aia E Jønch
- Department of clinical Genetics, Kennedy Center, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth Pintado
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Seville, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Joanne O'Keefe
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julian N Trollor
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia ; Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Glenn T Stebbins
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Randi J Hagerman
- Department of Pediatrics & M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Stanley Fahn
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA ; Departments of Pediatrics and Biochemistry, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maureen A Leehey
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado at Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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112
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Grigsby J, Cornish K, Hocking D, Kraan C, Olichney JM, Rivera SM, Schneider A, Sherman S, Wang JY, Yang JC. The cognitive neuropsychological phenotype of carriers of the FMR1 premutation. J Neurodev Disord 2014; 6:28. [PMID: 25136377 PMCID: PMC4135346 DOI: 10.1186/1866-1955-6-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a late-onset neurodegenerative disorder affecting a subset of carriers of the FMR1 (fragile X mental retardation 1) premutation. Penetrance and expression appear to be significantly higher in males than females. Although the most obvious aspect of the phenotype is the movement disorder that gives FXTAS its name, the disorder is also accompanied by progressive cognitive impairment. In this review, we address the cognitive neuropsychological and neurophysiological phenotype for males and females with FXTAS, and for male and female unaffected carriers. Despite differences in penetrance and expression, the cognitive features of the disorder appear similar for both genders, with impairment of executive functioning, working memory, and information processing the most prominent. Deficits in these functional systems may be largely responsible for impairment on other measures, including tests of general intelligence and declarative learning. FXTAS is to a large extent a white matter disease, and the cognitive phenotypes observed are consistent with what some have described as white matter dementia, in contrast to the impaired cortical functioning more characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Although some degree of impaired executive functioning appears to be ubiquitous among persons with FXTAS, the data suggest that only a subset of unaffected carriers of the premutation - both female and male - demonstrate such deficits, which typically are mild. The best-studied phenotype is that of males with FXTAS. The manifestations of cognitive impairment among asymptomatic male carriers, and among women with and without FXTAS, are less well understood, but have come under increased scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Grigsby
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, USA ; Department of Medicine; Division of Health Care Policy and Research, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kim Cornish
- School of Psychology & Psychiatry; Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darren Hocking
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claudine Kraan
- School of Psychology & Psychiatry; Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - John M Olichney
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, CA, USA ; Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Susan M Rivera
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, CA, USA ; Department of Psychology, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA ; MIND Institute, University of California-Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, CA, USA ; MIND Institute, University of California-Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Jun Yi Wang
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, CA, USA ; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jin-Chen Yang
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California, Davis, CA, USA ; Department of Neurology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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113
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Labauge P, Carra-Dalliere C, Menjot de Champfleur N, Ayrignac X, Boespflug-Tanguy O. MRI pattern approach of adult-onset inherited leukoencephalopathies. Neurol Clin Pract 2014; 4:287-295. [PMID: 29473566 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
White matter hyperintensities are frequently encountered in clinical practice. In adulthood, white matter hyperintensities are generally related to acquired disorders, such as vascular, inflammatory, or demyelinating diseases. Symmetrical and confluent white matter abnormalities on the first available MRI suggest a genetic disorder. In this article, we provide keys to recognize and classify the adult-onset forms of inherited leukoencephalopathies and to identify their causes by targeting specific biochemical or molecular biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Labauge
- Departments of Neurology (PL, CC-D, XA) and Neuroradiology (NMdC), CHU Montpellier; and Neuropédiatrie et Maladies Métaboliques and INSERM U676 (OB-T), National Reference Center for Leukodystrophies, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris-Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Clarisse Carra-Dalliere
- Departments of Neurology (PL, CC-D, XA) and Neuroradiology (NMdC), CHU Montpellier; and Neuropédiatrie et Maladies Métaboliques and INSERM U676 (OB-T), National Reference Center for Leukodystrophies, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris-Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Menjot de Champfleur
- Departments of Neurology (PL, CC-D, XA) and Neuroradiology (NMdC), CHU Montpellier; and Neuropédiatrie et Maladies Métaboliques and INSERM U676 (OB-T), National Reference Center for Leukodystrophies, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris-Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Xavier Ayrignac
- Departments of Neurology (PL, CC-D, XA) and Neuroradiology (NMdC), CHU Montpellier; and Neuropédiatrie et Maladies Métaboliques and INSERM U676 (OB-T), National Reference Center for Leukodystrophies, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris-Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Odile Boespflug-Tanguy
- Departments of Neurology (PL, CC-D, XA) and Neuroradiology (NMdC), CHU Montpellier; and Neuropédiatrie et Maladies Métaboliques and INSERM U676 (OB-T), National Reference Center for Leukodystrophies, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris-Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
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114
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Birch RC, Cornish KM, Hocking DR, Trollor JN. Understanding the neuropsychiatric phenotype of fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome: a systematic review. Neuropsychol Rev 2014; 24:491-513. [PMID: 24828430 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-014-9262-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a recently identified X-linked neurodegenerative disorder affecting a proportion of premutation carriers of the Fragile X Mental Retardation 1 (FMR1) gene. Previous research suggests that cognitive and psychiatric features of FXTAS may include primary impairments in executive function and increased vulnerability to mood and anxiety disorders. A number of these reports, however, are based on overlapping cohorts or have produced inconsistent findings. A systematic review was therefore conducted to further elucidate the neuropsychiatric features characteristic of FXTAS. Fourteen papers met inclusion criteria for the review and were considered to represent nine independent FXTAS cohorts. Findings from the review suggest that the neuropsychiatric phenotype of FXTAS is characterised primarily by poorer performance on measures of executive function, working memory, information processing speed, and fine motor control when compared to matched comparison groups. Two studies were identified in which psychiatric symptoms in FXTAS were compared with controls, and these yielded mixed results. Overall the results of this review support previous reports that the neuropsychiatric profile of FXTAS is consistent with a dysexecutive fronto-subcortical syndrome. However, additional controlled studies are required to progress our understanding of FXTAS and how the neuropsychiatric profile relates to underlying pathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Birch
- Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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115
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Kalia LV, Rockman-Greenberg C, Borys A, Lang AE. Tremor in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 12. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2014; 1:76-78. [PMID: 30363887 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine V Kalia
- Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic and the Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease Toronto Western Hospital University Health Network Toronto Ontario Canada.,Division of Neurology Department of Medicine University of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Cheryl Rockman-Greenberg
- Program in Genetics and Metabolism Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Department of Pediatrics and Child Health University of Manitoba Winnipeg Ontario Canada
| | - Andrew Borys
- Department of Medicine (Neurology) University of Manitoba Winnipeg Ontario Canada
| | - Anthony E Lang
- Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic and the Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson's Disease Toronto Western Hospital University Health Network Toronto Ontario Canada.,Division of Neurology Department of Medicine University of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
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116
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Menéndez-González M, Tavares F, Zeidan N, Salas-Pacheco JM, Arias-Carrión O. Diagnoses behind patients with hard-to-classify tremor and normal DaT-SPECT: a clinical follow up study. Front Aging Neurosci 2014; 6:56. [PMID: 24744729 PMCID: PMC3978325 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2014.00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The [123I]ioflupane—a dopamine transporter radioligand—SPECT (DaT-SPECT) has proven to be useful in the differential diagnosis of tremor. Here, we investigate the diagnoses behind patients with hard-to-classify tremor and normal DaT-SPECT. Therefore, 30 patients with tremor and normal DaT-SPECT were followed up for 2 years. In 18 cases we were able to make a diagnosis. The residual 12 patients underwent a second DaT-SPECT, were then followed for additional 12 months and thereafter the diagnosis was reconsidered again. The final diagnoses included cases of essential tremor, dystonic tremor, multisystem atrophy, vascular parkinsonism, progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, fragile X–associated tremor ataxia syndrome, psychogenic parkinsonism, iatrogenic parkinsonism and Parkinson's disease. However, for 6 patients the diagnosis remained uncertain. Larger series are needed to better establish the relative frequency of the different conditions behind these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Menéndez-González
- Neurology Unit, Hospital Álvarez-Buylla Mieres, Spain ; Morphology and Cellular Biology Department, Universidad de Oviedo Oviedo, Spain ; Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Oviedo Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Nahla Zeidan
- Nuclear Medicine, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias Oviedo, Spain
| | - José M Salas-Pacheco
- Instituto de Investigación Científica, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango Durango, Mexico
| | - Oscar Arias-Carrión
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Unit, Sleep and Movement Disorders Clinic, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González Mexico City, Mexico
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117
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Seritan AL, Nguyen DV, Mu Y, Tassone F, Bourgeois JA, Schneider A, Cogswell J, Cook K, Leehey M, Grigsby J, Olichney JM, Adams P, Legg W, Zhang L, Hagerman P, Hagerman RJ. Memantine for fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Clin Psychiatry 2014; 75:264-71. [PMID: 24345444 PMCID: PMC4296896 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.13m08546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Memantine, an uncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist, is currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. Anecdotal reports have suggested that memantine may improve neurologic and cognitive symptoms of individuals with the neurodegenerative disease fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS); however, its efficacy and safety in this population have not been assessed in a controlled trial. METHOD Individuals with FXTAS aged 34-80 years were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 1-year trial between September 2007 and August 2012. Inclusion required definite, probable, or possible FXTAS in clinical stages 1-5 according to previously published criteria. Primary outcome measures were the Behavioral Dyscontrol Scale (BDS) score and CATSYS intention tremor severity. RESULTS Ninety-four participants were randomized from 205 screened; of those, 43 and 45 started treatment with memantine (titrated to 10 mg twice daily) and placebo, respectively. Thirty-four participants receiving memantine and 36 receiving placebo completed the 1-year endpoint assessment (n = 70). Intention-to-treat analysis showed no improvement with respect to intention tremor severity (mean [SD] values with memantine vs placebo: 1.05 [0.73] vs 1.89 [2.19], P = .047) or BDS score (16.12 [5.43] vs 15.72 [3.93], P = .727) at follow-up. Post hoc analyses of participants with early FXTAS (stage ≤ 3), those with late FXTAS (stage > 3), and those in different age groups (≤ 65 years and > 65 years) also indicated no significant improvement. More frequent mild adverse events were observed in the placebo group, while more frequent moderate adverse events occurred in the memantine group (P = .007). CONCLUSION This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of memantine for individuals with FXTAS showed no benefit compared to placebo with respect to the selected outcome measures. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00584948.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea L. Seritan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA,Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Danh V. Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA,Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | - Yi Mu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California Davis, Davis CA
| | - Flora Tassone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
| | - James A. Bourgeois
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA,Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Jennifer Cogswell
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Kylee Cook
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Maureen Leehey
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Jim Grigsby
- Departments of Psychology and Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado
| | - John M. Olichney
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA,Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Patrick Adams
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Wendi Legg
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Paul Hagerman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Randi J. Hagerman
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA,Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
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118
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Besterman AD, Wilke SA, Mulligan TE, Allison SC, Hagerman R, Seritan AL, Bourgeois JA. Towards an Understanding of Neuropsychiatric Manifestations in Fragile X Premutation Carriers. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2014; 9:227-239. [PMID: 25013385 DOI: 10.2217/fnl.14.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X-associated disorders (FXD) are a group of disorders caused by expansion of non-coding CGG repeat elements in the fragile X (FMR1) gene. One of these disorders, fragile X syndrome (FXS), is the most common heritable cause of intellectual disability, and is caused by large CGG repeat expansions (>200) resulting in silencing of the FMR1 gene. An increasingly recognized number of neuropsychiatric FXD have recently been identified that are caused by 'premutation' range expansions (55-200). These disorders are characterized by a spectrum of neuropsychiatric manifestations ranging from an increased risk of neurodevelopmental, mood and anxiety disorders to neurodegenerative phenotypes such as the fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). Here, we review advances in the clinical understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders in premutation carriers across the lifespan and offer guidance for the detection of such disorders by practicing psychiatrists and neurologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Besterman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California 94143 USA
| | - Scott A Wilke
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California 94143 USA
| | - Tua-Elisabeth Mulligan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California 94143 USA
| | - Stephen C Allison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California 94143 USA
| | - Randi Hagerman
- Department of Pediatrics and MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California 95817 USA
| | - Andreea L Seritan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California 95817 USA
| | - James A Bourgeois
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California 94143 USA
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119
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Apartis E, Jedynak CP. Tremori. Neurologia 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(14)66663-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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120
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Ludwig AL, Espinal GM, Pretto DI, Jamal AL, Arque G, Tassone F, Berman RF, Hagerman PJ. CNS expression of murine fragile X protein (FMRP) as a function of CGG-repeat size. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 23:3228-38. [PMID: 24463622 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Large expansions of a CGG-repeat element (>200 repeats; full mutation) in the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene cause fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading single-gene form of intellectual disability and of autism spectrum disorder. Smaller expansions (55-200 CGG repeats; premutation) result in the neurodegenerative disorder, fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). Whereas FXS is caused by gene silencing and insufficient FMR1 protein (FMRP), FXTAS is thought to be caused by 'toxicity' of expanded-CGG-repeat mRNA. However, as FMRP expression levels decrease with increasing CGG-repeat length, lowered protein may contribute to premutation-associated clinical involvement. To address this issue, we measured brain Fmr1 mRNA and FMRP levels as a function of CGG-repeat length in a congenic (CGG-repeat knock-in) mouse model using 57 wild-type and 97 expanded-CGG-repeat mice carrying up to ~250 CGG repeats. While Fmr1 message levels increased with repeat length, FMRP levels trended downward over the same range, subject to significant inter-subject variation. Human comparisons of protein levels in the frontal cortex of 7 normal and 17 FXTAS individuals revealed that the mild FMRP decrease in mice mirrored the more limited data for FMRP expression in the human samples. In addition, FMRP expression levels varied in a subset of mice across the cerebellum, frontal cortex, and hippocampus, as well as at different ages. These results provide a foundation for understanding both the CGG-repeat-dependence of FMRP expression and for interpreting clinical phenotypes in premutation carriers in terms of the balance between elevated mRNA and lowered FMRP expression levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lisa Ludwig
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Glenda M Espinal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Dalyir I Pretto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Health System, Sacramento, CA, USA and
| | - Amanda L Jamal
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Gloria Arque
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Flora Tassone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Health System, Sacramento, CA, USA and
| | - Robert F Berman
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Health System, Sacramento, CA, USA and Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Paul J Hagerman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Health System, Sacramento, CA, USA and
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121
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van de Warrenburg BPC, van Gaalen J, Boesch S, Burgunder JM, Dürr A, Giunti P, Klockgether T, Mariotti C, Pandolfo M, Riess O. EFNS/ENS Consensus on the diagnosis and management of chronic ataxias in adulthood. Eur J Neurol 2014; 21:552-62. [PMID: 24418350 DOI: 10.1111/ene.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The ataxias are a challenging group of neurological diseases due the aetiological heterogeneity and the complexity of the genetic subtypes. This guideline focuses on the heredodegenerative ataxias. The aim is to provide a peer-reviewed evidence-based guideline for clinical neurologists and other specialist physicians responsible for the care of patients with ataxia. METHODS This guideline is based on systematic evaluations of the relevant literature and on three consensus meetings of the task force. DIAGNOSIS If acquired causes are ruled out, and if the disease course is rather slowly progressive, a (heredo)degenerative disease is likely. A positive family history gives much guidance. In the case of a dominant family history, first line genetic screening is recommended for spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 17 (level B), and in Asian patients also for dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA). In the case of recessive disease, a stepwise diagnostic work-up is recommended, including both biochemical markers and targeted genetic testing, particularly aimed at Friedreich's ataxia, ataxia telangiectasia, ataxia due to vitamin E deficiency, polymerase gamma gene (POLG gene, various mutations), autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) and ataxia with oculomotor apraxia (AOA) types 1 and 2. If family history is negative, we still advise to screen for the more common dominant and recessive ataxias. In addition, if onset is below 45 years we recommend the full work-up for recessive ataxias; if onset is above 45 years we recommend to screen for fragile X mental retardation 1 FMR1 premutations (good practice points). In sporadic cases with an onset after 30 years, a diagnosis of multiple system atrophy should be considered (good practice point). In particular the genetic work-up will change over the upcoming years due to the diagnostic utility of new techniques such as gene panel diagnostics based on next generation sequencing for routine work-up, or even whole exome and genome sequencing for selected cases. TREATMENT Some of the rare recessive ataxias are treatable, but for most of the heredodegenerative ataxias treatment is purely symptomatic. Idebenone is not effective in Friedreich's ataxia (level A). Riluzole (level B) and amantadine (level C) might provide symptomatic relief, irrespective of exact etiology. Also, varenicline for SCA3 patients (level B) can be considered. There is level Class II evidence to recommend physiotherapy, and Class III data to support occupational therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- B P C van de Warrenburg
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Polussa J, Schneider A, Hagerman R. Molecular Advances Leading to Treatment Implications for Fragile X Premutation Carriers. BRAIN DISORDERS & THERAPY 2014; 3:1000119. [PMID: 25436181 PMCID: PMC4245015 DOI: 10.4172/2168-975x.1000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common single gene cause of intellectual disability and it is characterized by a CGG expansion of more than 200 repeats in the FMR1 gene, leading to methylation of the promoter and gene silencing. The fragile X premutation, characterized by a 55 to 200 CGG repeat expansion, causes health problems and developmental difficulties in some, but not all, carriers. The premutation causes primary ovarian insufficiency in approximately 20% of females, psychiatric problems (including depression and/or anxiety) in approximately 50% of carriers and a neurodegenerative disorder, the fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), in approximately 40% of males and 16% of females later in life. Recent clinical studies in premutation carriers have expanded the health problems that may be seen. Advances in the molecular pathogenesis of the premutation have shown significant mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in neurons which may be amenable to treatment. Here we review the clinical problems of carriers and treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Polussa
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Randi Hagerman
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, California, USA
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123
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Which Approach is Better: Bilateral Versus Unilateral Thalamic Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients with Fragile X–Associated Tremor Ataxia Syndrome. THE CEREBELLUM 2013; 13:222-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s12311-013-0530-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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125
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Hagerman R, Hagerman P. Advances in clinical and molecular understanding of the FMR1 premutation and fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. Lancet Neurol 2013; 12:786-98. [PMID: 23867198 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(13)70125-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome, the most common heritable form of cognitive impairment, is caused by epigenetic silencing of the fragile X (FMR1) gene owing to large expansions (>200 repeats) of a non-coding CGG-repeat element. Smaller, so-called premutation expansions (55-200 repeats) can cause a family of neurodevelopmental phenotypes (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, seizure disorder) and neurodegenerative (fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome [FXTAS]) phenotypes through an entirely distinct molecular mechanism involving increased FMR1 mRNA production and toxicity. Results of basic cellular, animal, and human studies have helped to elucidate the underlying RNA toxicity mechanism, while clinical research is providing a more nuanced picture of the range of clinical manifestations. Advances of knowledge on both mechanistic and clinical fronts are driving new approaches to targeted treatment, but two important necessities are emerging: to define the extent to which the mechanisms contributing to FXTAS also contribute to other neurodegenerative and medical disorders, and to redefine FXTAS in view of its differing presentations and associated features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randi Hagerman
- Department of Pediatrics and the MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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126
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Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS): pathology and mechanisms. Acta Neuropathol 2013; 126:1-19. [PMID: 23793382 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-013-1138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery in 2001, our understanding of fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) has undergone a remarkable transformation. Initially characterized rather narrowly as an adult-onset movement disorder, the definition of FXTAS is broadening; moreover, the disorder is now recognized as only one facet of a much broader clinical pleiotropy among children and adults who carry premutation alleles of the FMR1 gene. Furthermore, the intranuclear inclusions of FXTAS, once thought to be a CNS-specific marker of the disorder, are now known to be widely distributed in multiple non-CNS tissues; this observation fundamentally changes our concept of the disease, and may provide the basis for understanding the diverse medical problems associated with the premutation. Recent work on the pathogenic mechanisms underlying FXTAS indicates that the origins of the late-onset neurodegenerative disorder actually lie in early development, raising the likelihood that all forms of clinical involvement among premutation carriers have a common underlying mechanistic basis. There has also been great progress in our understanding of the triggering event(s) in FXTAS pathogenesis, which is now thought to involve sequestration of one or more nuclear proteins involved with microRNA biogenesis. Moreover, there is mounting evidence that mitochondrial dysregulation contributes to the decreased cell function and loss of viability, evident in mice even during the neonatal period. Taken together, these recent findings offer hope for early interventions for FXTAS, well before the onset of overt disease, and for the treatment of other forms of clinical involvement among premutation carriers.
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Stamelou M, Quinn NP, Bhatia KP. “Atypical” atypical parkinsonism: New genetic conditions presenting with features of progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, or multiple system atrophy-A diagnostic guide. Mov Disord 2013; 28:1184-99. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.25509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stamelou
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
- Neurology Clinic; Philipps-University; Marburg Germany
| | - Niall P. Quinn
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
| | - Kailash P. Bhatia
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; UCL Institute of Neurology; London United Kingdom
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128
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Fekete R, Li J. Clinical differentiation of essential tremor and Parkinson's disease. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-CASE REPORTS 2013; 6:67-74. [PMID: 23700378 PMCID: PMC3656631 DOI: 10.4137/cmcrep.s11903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We present clinical features and tremor characterization in a patient with Parkinson’s disease (PD) as well as in two cases of essential tremor (ET) with some parkinsonian features but no evidence of dopaminergic terminal loss on 123I-FP-CIT Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT). Relatively slow frequency rest tremor and bilateral upper extremity bradykinesia without decrementing amplitude were observed in the ET cases, with unilaterally decreased arm swing in case 3. Alternating rest tremor and re-emergent tremor with 13 second latency was confirmed in the PD case. Re-emergent tremor had alternating characteristics, which to our knowledge has not been previously reported. The ET cases had synchronous postural tremor. Alternating re-emergent tremor in PD provides further evidence for re-emergent tremor as an analogue of rest tremor in PD. Two cases of ET with synchronous postural tremor and one to two year history of parkinsonian features had no evidence of dopaminergic terminal loss up to 40 years after the initial onset of ET. Tremor synchronicity characterization can assist in differential diagnosis between the two disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Fekete
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, New York
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129
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Abstract
This article summarizes the clinical findings, genetics, pathophysiology, and treatment of fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome. The disorder occurs from a CGG repeat (55-200) expansion in the fragile X mental retardation 1 gene. It manifests clinically in kinetic tremor, gait ataxia, and executive dysfunction, usually in older men who carry the genetic abnormality. The disorder has distinct radiographic and pathologic findings. Symptomatic treatment is beneficial in some patients. The inheritance is X-linked and family members may be at risk for other fragile X-associated disorders. This information is useful to neurologists, general practitioners, and geneticists.
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130
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Fekete R, Li J. Clinical Differentiation of Essential Tremor and Parkinson's Disease. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-CASE REPORTS 2013; 6:10.4137_CCRep.S11903. [PMID: 35185349 PMCID: PMC8848065 DOI: 10.4137/ccrep.s11903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We present clinical features and tremor characterization in a patient with Parkinson's disease (PD) as well as in two cases of essential tremor (ET) with some parkinsonian features but no evidence of dopaminergic terminal loss on 123I-FP-CIT Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT). Relatively slow frequency rest tremor and bilateral upper extremity bradykinesia without decrementing amplitude were observed in the ET cases, with unilaterally decreased arm swing in case 3. Alternating rest tremor and re-emergent tremor with 13 second latency was confirmed in the PD case. Re-emergent tremor had alternating characteristics, which to our knowledge has not been previously reported. The ET cases had synchronous postural tremor. Alternating re-emergent tremor in PD provides further evidence for re-emergent tremor as an analogue of rest tremor in PD. Two cases of ET with synchronous postural tremor and one to two year history of parkinsonian features had no evidence of dopaminergic terminal loss up to 40 years after the initial onset of ET. Tremor synchronicity characterization can assist in differential diagnosis between the two disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Fekete
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, New York
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, New York
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131
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Lesca G, Lejeune S, Hernette D, Héron D. [Family impact of FXTAS diagnosis: genetic counseling for at-risk relatives]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2013; 169:515-8. [PMID: 23557641 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Revised: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fragile X associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS) is related to premutation expansions of the FMR1 gene, including 55 to 200 CGG repeats, whereas full expansions, over 200 repeats, cause Fragile X mental retardation. FXTAS is observed in about one-third of men with premutation, generally in their 1950s and over, and less commonly in women. It is characterized by action tremor, ataxia, cognitive, parkinsonism, behavioral difficulties, autonomic dysfunction and peripheral neuropathy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) often shows symmetric increases in T2-weighted signal intensity in the middle cerebellar peduncles. The diagnosis of FXTAS in a patient raises important family issues. CASE REPORT A 47-year-old male patient complained of an abnormal hearing sensation and dizziness for several months. Neurological examination was normal. Brain MRI showed the common signal intensity in middle cerebellar peduncles and bilateral punctual increases in T2-weighted signal intensity in the cerebral white matter. Genetic analysis showed 87CGG repeats, in favor of a possible FXTAS. At the time of diagnosis, fragile X syndrome was subsequently suspected and confirmed in his 10-month-old grandson. DISCUSSION Due to X-linked inheritance and to the specific related mutational mechanism, the diagnosis of FXTAS in a patient raises major issues for relatives over several generations, including males and females, who should be considered as obligate or potential premutation carriers. Premutated females are not only at risk of transmitting a full mutation to their children but also of developing Fragile X related premature ovarian failure (FXPOI) that may influence their choices in family planning. CONCLUSION The diagnosis of FXATS in a patient should induce delivery of extensive information and genetic counseling for potential carrier relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lesca
- Service de génétique, GH Est, hospices civils de Lyon, 3, quai des Célestins, 69002 Lyon, France.
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132
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Tranchant C. [Have centers of rare neurological diseases changed their practices and management of the hereditary cerebellar ataxias?]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2013; 169 Suppl 1:S23-7. [PMID: 23452767 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(13)70056-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The classification and management of hereditary cerebellar ataxias have been considerably changed by advances made in the field of genetics. Given the numerous genes implicated in the disorders, genetic analysis, which alone can confirm the diagnosis, needs to be based on phenotypically precise studies. Diagnostic algorithms including both recessive and dominant forms of ataxia have been proposed. The range of disease effects has been further expanded in the light of evidence of ataxias associated with permutations of the Fragile X gene, and ataxias linked to mutations of the nuclear genes coding for structural proteins of mitochondrial DNA. In the field of therapeutics, several studies are currently ongoing for Friedreich's ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Tranchant
- Centre de compétence des maladies neurologiques génétiques rares, Service de Neurologie, Hôpital de Hautepierre, avenue Molière, 67100 Strasbourg, France.
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