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Rees HA, Minella AC, Burnett CA, Komor AC, Gaudelli NM. CRISPR-derived genome editing therapies: Progress from bench to bedside. Mol Ther 2021; 29:3125-3139. [PMID: 34619370 PMCID: PMC8572140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of CRISPR-derived genome editing technologies has enabled the precise manipulation of DNA sequences within the human genome. In this review, we discuss the initial development and cellular mechanism of action of CRISPR nucleases and DNA base editors. We then describe factors that must be taken into consideration when developing these tools into therapeutic agents, including the potential for unintended and off-target edits when using these genome editing tools, and methods to characterize these types of edits. We finish by considering specific challenges associated with bringing a CRISPR-based therapy to the clinic, including manufacturing, regulatory oversight, and considerations for clinical trials that involve genome editing agents.
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202
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Kotulska K, Fattal-Valevski A, Haberlova J. Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Serotype 9 Gene Therapy in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Front Neurol 2021; 12:726468. [PMID: 34721262 PMCID: PMC8548432 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.726468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neuromuscular disease caused by deletion or mutation of the SMN1 gene. It is characterized by a progressive loss of motor neurons resulting in muscle weakness. The disease affects 1 in 11,000 live births and before the era of treatment SMA was a leading genetic cause of mortality in infants. Recently, disease modifying therapies have been introduced in clinical practice. They include intrathecal and oral antisense oligonucleotides binding to pre-mRNA of SMN2 gene and increasing the translation of fully functional SMN protein as well as SMN1 gene replacement therapy. Onasemnogene abeparvovec uses the adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) vector to deliver the SMN1 gene. Phase 1 and phase 3 clinical trials showed that a single administration of onasemnogene abeparvovec resulted in improvement of motor functions in the majority of infants with SMA. Currently, phase 3 trials in SMA1 and SMA2 patients, as well as presymptomatic infants diagnosed with SMA, are ongoing. The drug was approved for medical use in the US in 2019, and in Japan and the European Union in 2020. Thus, first real-world data on efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec in SMA patients are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kotulska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aviva Fattal-Valevski
- Pediatric Neurology Institute, "Dana-Dwek" Children Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jana Haberlova
- Neuromuscular Center, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty Hospital Motol, 2nd School of Medicine Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Weiß C, Ziegler A, Becker LL, Johannsen J, Brennenstuhl H, Schreiber G, Flotats-Bastardas M, Stoltenburg C, Hartmann H, Illsinger S, Denecke J, Pechmann A, Müller-Felber W, Vill K, Blaschek A, Smitka M, van der Stam L, Weiss K, Winter B, Goldhahn K, Plecko B, Horber V, Bernert G, Husain RA, Rauscher C, Trollmann R, Garbade SF, Hahn A, von der Hagen M, Kaindl AM. Gene replacement therapy with onasemnogene abeparvovec in children with spinal muscular atrophy aged 24 months or younger and bodyweight up to 15 kg: an observational cohort study. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2021; 6:17-27. [PMID: 34756190 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(21)00287-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the novelty of gene replacement therapy with onasemnogene abeparvovec in spinal muscular atrophy, efficacy and safety data are limited, especially for children older than 24 months, those weighing more than 8·5 kg, and those who have received nusinersen. We aimed to provide real-world data on motor function and safety after gene replacement therapy in different patient subgroups. METHODS We did a protocol-based, multicentre prospective observational study between Sept 21, 2019, and April 20, 2021, in 18 paediatric neuromuscular centres in Germany and Austria. All children with spinal muscular atrophy types 1 and 2 receiving onasemnogene abeparvovec were included in our cohort, and there were no specific exclusion criteria. Motor function was assessed at the time of gene replacement therapy and 6 months afterwards, using the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) and Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale-Expanded (HFMSE) scores. Additionally, in children pretreated with nusinersen, motor function was assessed before and after treatment switch. Off-target adverse events were analysed with a focus on liver function, thrombocytopaenia, and potential cardiotoxicity. FINDINGS 76 children (58 pretreated with nusinersen and 18 who were nusinersen naive) with spinal muscular atrophy were treated with onasemnogene abeparvovec at a mean age of 16·8 months (range 0·8-59·0, IQR 9-23) and a mean weight of 9·1 kg (range 4·0-15·0, IQR 7·4-10·6). In 60 patients with available data, 49 had a significant improvement on the CHOP-INTEND score (≥4 points) and HFMSE score (≥3 points). Mean CHOP INTEND scores increased significantly in the 6 months after therapy in children younger than 8 months (n=16; mean change 13·8 [SD 8·5]; p<0·0001) and children aged between 8 and 24 months (n=34; 7·7 [SD 5·2]; p<0·0001), but not in children older than 24 months (n=6; 2·5 [SD 5·2]; p=1·00). In the 45 children pretreated with nusinersen and had available data, CHOP INTEND score increased by 8·8 points (p=0·0003) at 6 months after gene replacement therapy. No acute complications occurred during infusion of onasemnogene abeparvovec, but 56 (74%) patients had treatment-related side-effects. Serious adverse events occurred in eight (11%) children. Liver enzyme elevation significantly increased with age and weight at treatment. Six (8%) patients developed acute liver dysfunction. Other adverse events included pyrexia (n=47 [62%]), vomiting or loss of appetite (41 [54%]), and thrombocytopenia (n=59 [78%]). Prednisolone treatment was significantly prolonged with a mean duration of 15·7 weeks (IQR 9-19), mainly due to liver enzyme elevation. Cardiac adverse events were rare; only two patients had abnormal echocardiogram and echocardiography findings. INTERPRETATION This study provides class IV evidence that children with spinal muscular atrophy aged 24 months or younger and patients pretreated with nusinersen significantly benefit from gene replacement therapy, but adverse events can be severe and need to be closely monitored. FUNDING None. TRANSLATION For the German translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Weiß
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Ziegler
- Division of Child Neurology and Metabolic Medicine, Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lena-Luise Becker
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jessika Johannsen
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Heiko Brennenstuhl
- Division of Child Neurology and Metabolic Medicine, Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gudrun Schreiber
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Klinikum Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | | | - Corinna Stoltenburg
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans Hartmann
- Hannover Medical School, Clinic for Pediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sabine Illsinger
- Hannover Medical School, Clinic for Pediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jonas Denecke
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Astrid Pechmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Müller-Felber
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Vill
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Astrid Blaschek
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Smitka
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lieske van der Stam
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Weiss
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Goldhahn
- Department of Pediatrics and Neuropediatrics, DRK Klinikum Westend, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Plecko
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of General Pediatrics, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Veronka Horber
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Ralf A Husain
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Rauscher
- Department of Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven F Garbade
- Division of Child Neurology and Metabolic Medicine, Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Hahn
- Department of Child Neurology, University Hospital, Gießen, Germany
| | - Maja von der Hagen
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Angela M Kaindl
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Yang YY, Yuan P, Li M, Jiang L, Hong SQ. Natural history of spinal muscular atrophy in children: an analysis of 117 cases. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2021; 23:1038-1043. [PMID: 34719420 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2106025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the natural history of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in Chongqing and surrounding areas, China, and to provide a clinical basis for comprehensive management and gene modification therapy for SMA. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical data and survival status of 117 children with SMA. RESULTS Of the 117 children, 62 (53.0%) had type 1 SMA, 45 (38.5%) had type 2 SMA, and 10 (8.5%) had type 3 SMA, with a median age of onset of 2 months, 10 months, and 15 months, respectively. Compared with the children with type 2 SMA or type 3 SMA, the children with type 1 SMA had significantly shorter time to onset, consultation, and confirmed diagnosis (P<0.05) and a significantly shorter diagnostic time window (age from disease onset to consultation) (P<0.05). Pneumonia as the initial symptom, weakness in head control, crying weakness, and eating difficulty were more commonly observed in children with type 1 SMA (P<0.05). Scoliosis and lower limb joint contracture were more common in children with type 2 SMA than in those with type 1 SMA (P<0.05). All 117 SMA children (100%) had homozygous deletion of the SMN1 gene, and the homozygous deletion of exon 7 was the most common type (68.4%, 80/117). The 6-year survival rate of children with type 1 SMA was only 10%±5%, which was significantly lower than that of children with type 2 or 3 SMA (P<0.05). Age of onset ≤3 months, pneumonia as the initial symptom and weakness in head control were the risk factors for death in children with type 1 SMA (P<0.05). The children with type 2 SMA had non-linear regression of motor ability. CONCLUSIONS There are differences in clinical manifestations and survival rates among children with different types of SMA. The children with type 1 SMA have a low survival rate, and those with type 2 SMA may have non-linear regression of motor ability. Early identification and management of SMA should be performed in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ying Yang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China (Hong S-Q, )
| | - Ping Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China (Hong S-Q, )
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China (Hong S-Q, )
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China (Hong S-Q, )
| | - Si-Qi Hong
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing 400014, China (Hong S-Q, )
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Coratti G, Cutrona C, Pera MC, Bovis F, Ponzano M, Chieppa F, Antonaci L, Sansone V, Finkel R, Pane M, Mercuri E. Motor function in type 2 and 3 SMA patients treated with Nusinersen: a critical review and meta-analysis. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:430. [PMID: 34645478 PMCID: PMC8515709 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02065-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is an increasing number of papers reporting the real world use of Nusinersen in different cohorts of SMA patients.
Main body The aim of this paper was to critically review the literature reporting real world data on motor function in type 2 and 3 patients treated with Nusinersen, subdividing the results according to SMA type, age and type of assessment and performing a meta-analysis of the available results. We also report the available data collected in untreated patients using the same measures. Of the 400 papers identified searching for Nusinersen and spinal muscular atrophy, 19 reported motor function in types 2 and 3: 13 in adults, 4 in children and 2 included both. Twelve papers reported untreated patients’ data. All studies reported positive changes on at least one of the functional measures and at every time point while all-untreated cohorts showed negative changes. Conclusion Our review suggests that Nusinersen provides a favorable benefit in motor function across a wide range of SMA type 2 and 3 patients over a 10–14 month observation period. Although a direct comparison with studies reporting data from untreated patients cannot be made, the longitudinal changes in the treated cohorts (consistently positive) are divergent from those observed in the untreated cohorts (consistently negative). The difference could be observed both in the global cohorts and in smaller groups subdivided according to age, type or functional status. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-02065-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Coratti
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Cutrona
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Pera
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bovis
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marta Ponzano
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Chieppa
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Antonaci
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Sansone
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Neuromuscular Omnicentre Clinical Center, Niguarda Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marika Pane
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Mercuri
- Pediatric Neurology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy. .,Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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206
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Dangouloff T, Boemer F, Servais L. Newborn screening of neuromuscular diseases. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:1070-1080. [PMID: 34620514 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuromuscular diseases represent an heterogenous group of more than 400 diseases, with a very broad phenotypic spectrum. Given their rarity and complexity, neuromuscular diseases are often diagnosed with a very significant delay after which irreversible muscle damage may limit the efficacy of treatments when available. In this context, neonatal screening could constitute a solution for early detection and treatment. A systematic review of the literature in PubMed up to May 1, 2021, was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, including classical neuromuscular diseases and diseases with a clear peripheral nervous system involvement (including central nervous system disease with severe neuropathy). We found seven diseases for which newborn screening data were reported: spinal muscular atrophy (9), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (9), Pompe disease (8), X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (5), Krabbe disease (4), myotonic dystrophy type 1 (1), metachromatic leukodystrophy (1). The future of newborn screening for neuromuscular disorders pass through a global technological switch, from a biochemical to a genetic-based approach. The rapid development of therapy also requires the possibility to quickly adapt the list of treated conditions, to allow innovative therapies to achieve their best efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Dangouloff
- Division of Child Neurology, Reference Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Belgium.
| | - François Boemer
- Biochemical Genetics Lab, Department of Human Genetics, CHU of Liège, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Laurent Servais
- Division of Child Neurology, Reference Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Belgium; MDUK Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, UK.
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207
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Jensen TL, Gøtzsche CR, Woldbye DPD. Current and Future Prospects for Gene Therapy for Rare Genetic Diseases Affecting the Brain and Spinal Cord. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:695937. [PMID: 34690692 PMCID: PMC8527017 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.695937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, gene therapy has been raising hopes toward viable treatment strategies for rare genetic diseases for which there has been almost exclusively supportive treatment. We here review this progress at the pre-clinical and clinical trial levels as well as market approvals within diseases that specifically affect the brain and spinal cord, including degenerative, developmental, lysosomal storage, and metabolic disorders. The field reached an unprecedented milestone when Zolgensma® (onasemnogene abeparvovec) was approved by the FDA and EMA for in vivo adeno-associated virus-mediated gene replacement therapy for spinal muscular atrophy. Shortly after EMA approved Libmeldy®, an ex vivo gene therapy with lentivirus vector-transduced autologous CD34-positive stem cells, for treatment of metachromatic leukodystrophy. These successes could be the first of many more new gene therapies in development that mostly target loss-of-function mutation diseases with gene replacement (e.g., Batten disease, mucopolysaccharidoses, gangliosidoses) or, less frequently, gain-of-toxic-function mutation diseases by gene therapeutic silencing of pathologic genes (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease). In addition, the use of genome editing as a gene therapy is being explored for some diseases, but this has so far only reached clinical testing in the treatment of mucopolysaccharidoses. Based on the large number of planned, ongoing, and completed clinical trials for rare genetic central nervous system diseases, it can be expected that several novel gene therapies will be approved and become available within the near future. Essential for this to happen is the in depth characterization of short- and long-term effects, safety aspects, and pharmacodynamics of the applied gene therapy platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Leth Jensen
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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208
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Yamada Y. Nucleic Acid Drugs-Current Status, Issues, and Expectations for Exosomes. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13195002. [PMID: 34638486 PMCID: PMC8508492 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13195002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nucleic acid drugs provide novel therapeutic modalities with characteristics that differ from those of small molecules and antibodies. In this review, I focus on the various mechanisms through which nucleic acid drugs act on, the status of their clinical development, and discuss several hurdles that need to be surmounted. In addition, by listing examples of how the progress in exosome biology can lead to the solution of problems in nucleic acid drug therapy, I hope that many more nucleic acid drugs including anticancer drugs will be developed in the future. Abstract Nucleic acid drugs are being developed as novel therapeutic modalities. They have great potential to treat human diseases such as cancers, viral infections, and genetic disorders due to unique characteristics that make it possible to approach undruggable targets using classical small molecule or protein/antibody-based biologics. In this review, I describe the advantages, classification, and clinical status of nucleic acid therapeutics. To date, more than 10 products have been launched, and many products have been tested in clinics. To promote the use of nucleic acid therapeutics such as antibodies, several hurdles need to be surmounted. The most important issue is the delivery of nucleic acids and several other challenges have been reported. Recent advanced delivery platforms are lipid nanoparticles and ligand conjugation approaches. With the progress of exosome biology, exosomes are expected to contribute to the solution of various problems associated with nucleic acid drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoji Yamada
- Research Management Office, Research Unit, R&D Division, Kyowa Kirin Co. Ltd., 1-9-2, Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
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209
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Thomsen G, Burghes AHM, Hsieh C, Do J, Chu BTT, Perry S, Barkho B, Kaufmann P, Sproule DM, Feltner DE, Chung WK, McGovern VL, Hevner RF, Conces M, Pierson CR, Scoto M, Muntoni F, Mendell JR, Foust KD. Biodistribution of onasemnogene abeparvovec DNA, mRNA and SMN protein in human tissue. Nat Med 2021; 27:1701-1711. [PMID: 34608334 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01483-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease resulting from survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1) deletion/mutation. Onasemnogene abeparvovec (formerly AVXS-101) is a gene therapy that restores SMN production via one-time systemic administration. The present study demonstrates widespread biodistribution of vector genomes and transgenes throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral organs, after intravenous administration of an AAV9-mediated gene therapy. Two symptomatic infants with SMA1 enrolled in phase III studies received onasemnogene abeparvovec. Both patients died of respiratory complications unrelated to onasemnogene abeparvovec. One patient had improved motor function and the other died shortly after administration before appreciable clinical benefit could be observed. In both patients, onasemnogene abeparvovec DNA and messenger RNA distribution were widespread among peripheral organs and in the CNS. The greatest concentration of vector genomes was detected in the liver, with an increase over that detected in CNS tissues of 300-1,000-fold. SMN protein, which was low in an untreated SMA1 control, was clearly detectable in motor neurons, brain, skeletal muscle and multiple peripheral organs in treated patients. These data support the fact that onasemnogene abeparvovec has effective distribution, transduction and expression throughout the CNS after intravenous administration and restores SMN expression in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arthur H M Burghes
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA. .,Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | | | - Janet Do
- Novartis Gene Therapies, Bannockburn, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Wendy K Chung
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vicki L McGovern
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Robert F Hevner
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Miriam Conces
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Christopher R Pierson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mariacristina Scoto
- National Institute for Health Research, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, University College London, London, UK.,Great Ormond Street Hospital Trust, London, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- National Institute for Health Research, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, University College London, London, UK.,Great Ormond Street Hospital Trust, London, UK
| | - Jerry R Mendell
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Bischof M, Lorenzi M, Lee J, Druyts E, Balijepalli C, Dabbous O. Matching-adjusted indirect treatment comparison of onasemnogene abeparvovec and nusinersen for the treatment of symptomatic patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 1. Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:1719-1730. [PMID: 34236007 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1947216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Onasemnogene abeparvovec, a one-time intravenous gene replacement therapy, and nusinersen, an antisense oligonucleotide that requires ongoing intrathecal administration, have been evaluated as treatments for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1 in separate Phase III trials, but no head-to-head comparison studies have been conducted. Onasemnogene abeparvovec was compared with nusinersen using a matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) to estimate the treatment effect of onasemnogene abeparvovec relative to nusinersen for the treatment of symptomatic patients with SMA type 1 for up to 24 months of follow-up. METHODS In the absence of studies for both onasemnogene abeparvovec and nusinersen with a common comparator, a Bayesian naïve indirect treatment comparison (ITC) and MAIC between onasemnogene abeparvovec and nusinersen were conducted to compare efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec with nusinersen. Outcomes of interest were event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and motor milestone achievements (independent sitting and independent walking). Relative treatment effects were expressed as relative risk (RR) and risk difference. RESULTS Pooled and weighted patient-level data illustrated a favorable effect toward onasemnogene abeparvovec, suggesting longer EFS for patients compared with nusinersen (HR of onasemnogene abeparvovec vs. nusinersen: 0.19 [95% CI: 0.07-0.54; 99% CI: 0.05-0.74]). At 24 months of follow-up, patients receiving onasemnogene abeparvovec were statistically significantly more likely to achieve the motor milestone of sitting independently compared with patients treated with nusinersen. Although statistically significant differences were not observed at 6 to 18 months between treatment options, the likelihood of sitting independently at 12 and 18 months numerically favored onasemnogene abeparvovec. A numerically greater likelihood of walking by 18 and 24 months was also observed for patients treated with onasemnogene abeparvovec compared with nusinersen. Onasemnogene abeparvovec therapy was also associated with a favorable (but statistically nonsignificant) outcome for OS and may be associated with prolonged survival compared with nusinersen (HR of onasemnogene abeparvovec vs. nusinersen: 0.35 [95% CI: 0.09-1.32; 99% CI: 0.06-2.01]). Bayesian naïve ITC results were similar to the MAIC analysis for EFS, OS, and motor milestone achievements. Small sample size limited covariate matching to baseline CHOP INTEND and nutritional support requirement, leading to wider CIs and statistically inconclusive outcomes for some of the results. CONCLUSIONS Despite limitations of the current MAIC analysis (mainly a small sample size for statistical testing, even for the pooled onasemnogene abeparvovec trials, and potential differences in prognostic and predictive factors between studies), the relative treatment effects in EFS, OS, and motor milestone achievement indicate that onasemnogene abeparvovec may offer continued benefit compared with nusinersen through 24 months of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer Lee
- Decision Resources Group, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Druyts
- Pharmalytics Group, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Omar Dabbous
- Global Geneconomics and Outcomes Research, Novartis Gene Therapies, Inc, Bannockburn, IL, USA
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211
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Park JH, Marquardt T. Treatment Options in Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation. Front Genet 2021; 12:735348. [PMID: 34567084 PMCID: PMC8461064 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.735348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the identification and diagnosis of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), treatment options remain limited and are often constrained to symptomatic management of disease manifestations. However, recent years have seen significant advances in treatment and novel therapies aimed both at the causative defect and secondary disease manifestations have been transferred from bench to bedside. In this review, we aim to give a detailed overview of the available therapies and rising concepts to treat these ultra-rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien H Park
- Department of General Pediatrics, Metabolic Diseases, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Thorsten Marquardt
- Department of General Pediatrics, Metabolic Diseases, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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212
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Onasemnogene abeparvovec gene therapy for symptomatic infantile-onset spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (STR1VE-EU): an open-label, single-arm, multicentre, phase 3 trial. Lancet Neurol 2021; 20:832-841. [PMID: 34536405 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00251-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare, autosomal recessive, neuromuscular disease caused by biallelic loss of the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, resulting in motor neuron dysfunction. In this STR1VE-EU study, we aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of onasemnogene abeparvovec gene replacement therapy in infants with spinal muscular atrophy type 1, using broader eligibility criteria than those used in STR1VE-US. METHODS STR1VE-EU was a multicentre, single-arm, single-dose, open-label phase 3 trial done at nine sites (hospitals and universities) in Italy (n=4), the UK (n=2), Belgium (n=2), and France (n=1). We enrolled patients younger than 6 months (180 days) with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 and the common biallelic pathogenic SMN1 exon 7-8 deletion or point mutations, and one or two copies of SMN2. Patients received a one-time intravenous infusion of onasemnogene abeparvovec (1·1 × 1014 vector genomes [vg]/kg). The outpatient follow-up consisted of assessments once per week starting at day 7 post-infusion for 4 weeks and then once per month until the end of the study (at age 18 months or early termination). The primary outcome was independent sitting for at least 10 s, as defined by the WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study, at any visit up to the 18 months of age study visit, measured in the intention-to-treat population. Efficacy was compared with the Pediatric Neuromuscular Clinical Research (PNCR) natural history cohort. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03461289 (completed). FINDINGS From Aug 16, 2018, to Sept 11, 2020, 41 patients with spinal muscular atrophy were assessed for eligibility. The median age at onasemnogene abeparvovec dosing was 4·1 months (IQR 3·0-5·2). 32 (97%) of 33 patients completed the study and were included in the ITT population (one patient was excluded despite completing the study because of dosing at 181 days). 14 (44%, 97·5% CI 26-100) of 32 patients achieved the primary endpoint of functional independent sitting for at least 10 s at any visit up to the 18 months of age study visit (vs 0 of 23 untreated patients in the PNCR cohort; p<0·0001). 31 (97%, 95% CI 91-100) of 32 patients in the ITT population survived free from permanent ventilatory support at 14 months compared with six (26%, 8-44) of 23 patients in the PNCR natural history cohort (p<0·0001). 32 (97%) of 33 patients had at least one adverse event and six (18%) had adverse events that were considered serious and related to onasemnogene abeparvovec. The most common adverse events were pyrexia (22 [67%] of 33), upper respiratory infection (11 [33%]), and increased alanine aminotransferase (nine [27%]). One death, unrelated to the study drug, occurred from hypoxic-ischaemic brain damage because of a respiratory tract infection during the study. INTERPRETATION STR1VE-EU showed efficacy of onasemnogene abeparvovec in infants with symptomatic spinal muscular atrophy type 1. No new safety signals were identified, but further studies are needed to show long-term safety. The benefit-risk profile of onasemnogene abeparvovec seems favourable for this patient population, including those with severe disease at baseline. FUNDING Novartis Gene Therapies.
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Buying time for infants with spinal muscular atrophy. Lancet Neurol 2021; 20:777-779. [PMID: 34536396 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00291-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Day JW, Mendell JR, Mercuri E, Finkel RS, Strauss KA, Kleyn A, Tauscher-Wisniewski S, Tukov FF, Reyna SP, Chand DH. Clinical Trial and Postmarketing Safety of Onasemnogene Abeparvovec Therapy. Drug Saf 2021; 44:1109-1119. [PMID: 34383289 PMCID: PMC8473343 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-021-01107-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This is the first description of safety data for intravenous onasemnogene abeparvovec, the only approved systemically administered gene-replacement therapy for spinal muscular atrophy. Objective We comprehensively assessed the safety of intravenous onasemnogene abeparvovec from preclinical studies, clinical studies, and postmarketing data. Methods Single-dose toxicity studies were performed in neonatal mice and juvenile or neonatal cynomolgus nonhuman primates (NHPs). Data presented are from a composite of preclinical studies, seven clinical trials, and postmarketing sources (clinical trials, n = 102 patients; postmarketing surveillance, n = 665 reported adverse event [AE] cases). In clinical trials, safety was assessed through AE monitoring, vital-sign and cardiac assessments, laboratory evaluations, physical examinations, and concomitant medication use. AE reporting and available objective clinical data from postmarketing programs were evaluated. Results The main target organs of toxicity in mice were the heart and liver. Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) inflammation was observed in NHPs. Patients exhibited no evidence of sensory neuropathy upon clinical examination. In clinical trials, 101/102 patients experienced at least one treatment-emergent AE. In total, 50 patients experienced serious AEs, including 11 considered treatment related. AEs consistent with hepatotoxicity resolved with prednisolone in clinical trials. Transient decreases in mean platelet count were detected but were without bleeding complications. Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) was observed in the postmarketing setting. No evidence of intracardiac thrombi was observed for NHPs or patients. Conclusions Risks associated with onasemnogene abeparvovec can be anticipated, monitored, and managed. Hepatotoxicity events resolved with prednisolone. Thrombocytopenia was transient. TMA may require medical intervention. Important potential risks include cardiac AEs and DRG toxicity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40264-021-01107-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Day
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Medical Center, MC 5979, 213 Quarry Road, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA.
| | - Jerry R Mendell
- Center for Gene Therapy, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Neurology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Eugenio Mercuri
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Nemo Clinical Centre, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Richard S Finkel
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours Children's Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
- Center for Experimental Neurotherapeutics, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Kevin A Strauss
- Clinic for Special Children, Strasburg, PA, USA
- Penn Medicine-Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster, PA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Worcester, MA, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cell & Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Aaron Kleyn
- Novartis Gene Therapies, Inc., Bannockburn, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Deepa H Chand
- Novartis Gene Therapies, Inc., Bannockburn, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Crawford TO, Sumner CJ. Assuring long-term safety of highly effective gene-modulating therapeutics for rare diseases. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:e152817. [PMID: 34338226 DOI: 10.1172/jci152817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Charlotte J Sumner
- Department of Neurology.,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore Maryland, USA
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216
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Chaytow H, Faller KM, Huang YT, Gillingwater TH. Spinal muscular atrophy: From approved therapies to future therapeutic targets for personalized medicine. Cell Rep Med 2021; 2:100346. [PMID: 34337562 PMCID: PMC8324491 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2021.100346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a devastating childhood motor neuron disease that, in the most severe cases and when left untreated, leads to death within the first two years of life. Recent therapeutic advances have given hope to families and patients by compensating for the deficiency in survival motor neuron (SMN) protein via gene therapy or other genetic manipulation. However, it is now apparent that none of these therapies will cure SMA alone. In this review, we discuss the three currently licensed therapies for SMA, briefly highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages, before considering alternative approaches to increasing SMN protein levels. We then explore recent preclinical research that is identifying and targeting dysregulated pathways secondary to, or independent of, SMN deficiency that may provide adjunctive opportunities for SMA. These additional therapies are likely to be key for the development of treatments that are effective across the lifespan of SMA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Chaytow
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kiterie M.E. Faller
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Yu-Ting Huang
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Thomas H. Gillingwater
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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217
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There has been an explosion of advancement in the field of genetic therapies. The first gene-based treatments are now in clinical practice, with several additional therapeutic programs in various stages of development. Novel technologies are being developed that will further advance the breadth and success of genetic medicine.Congenital myopathies are an important group of neuromuscular disorders defined by structural changes in the muscle and characterized by severe clinical symptoms caused by muscle weakness. At present, there are no approved drug therapies for any subtype of congenital myopathy.In this review, we present an overview of genetic therapies and discuss their application to congenital myopathies. RECENT FINDINGS Several candidate therapeutics for congenital myopathies are in the development pipeline, including ones in clinical trial. These include genetic medicines such as gene replacement therapy and antisense oligonucleotide-based gene knockdown. We highlight the programs related to genetic medicine, and also discuss congenital myopathy subtypes where genetic therapy could be applied. SUMMARY Genetic therapies are ushering in an era of precision medicine for neurological diseases. Congenital myopathies are conditions ideally suited for genetic medicine approaches, and the first such therapies will hopefully soon be reaching congenital myopathy patients.
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218
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Nutritional, Gastrointestinal and Endo-Metabolic Challenges in the Management of Children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13072400. [PMID: 34371910 PMCID: PMC8308588 DOI: 10.3390/nu13072400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) is constantly evolving. In just a few decades, the medical approach has switched from an exclusively palliative therapy to a targeted therapy, transforming the natural history of the disease, improving survival time and quality of life and creating new challenges and goals. Many nutritional problems, gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic and endocrine alterations are commonly identified in patients affected by SMA1 during childhood and adolescence. For this reason, a proper pediatric multidisciplinary approach is then required in the clinical care of these patients, with a specific focus on the prevention of most common complications. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide the clinician with a practical and usable tool about SMA1 patients care, through a comprehensive insight into the nutritional, gastroenterological, metabolic and endocrine management of SMA1. Considering the possible horizons opened thanks to new therapeutic frontiers, a nutritional and endo-metabolic surveillance is a crucial element to be considered for a proper clinical care of these patients.
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219
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Armstrong C, Marsh ED. Electrophysiological Biomarkers in Genetic Epilepsies. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1458-1467. [PMID: 34642905 PMCID: PMC8609056 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01132-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision treatments for epilepsy targeting the underlying genetic diagnoses are becoming a reality. Historically, the goal of epilepsy treatments was to reduce seizure frequency. In the era of precision medicine, however, outcomes such as prevention of epilepsy progression or even improvements in cognitive functions are both aspirational targets for any intervention. Developing methods, both in clinical trial design and in novel endpoints, will be necessary for measuring, not only seizures, but also the other neurodevelopmental outcomes that are predicted to be targeted by precision treatments. Biomarkers that quantitatively measure disease progression or network level changes are needed to allow for unbiased measurements of the effects of any gene-level treatments. Here, we discuss some of the promising electrophysiological biomarkers that may be of use in clinical trials of precision therapies, as well as the difficulties in implementing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren Armstrong
- Division of Neurology and Pediatric Epilepsy Program, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Eric D Marsh
- Division of Neurology and Pediatric Epilepsy Program, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Kichula EA, Proud CM, Farrar MA, Kwon JM, Saito K, Desguerre I, McMillan HJ. Expert recommendations and clinical considerations in the use of onasemnogene abeparvovec gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:413-427. [PMID: 34196026 PMCID: PMC8518380 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive, neurodegenerative disease caused by biallelic mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. SMA is characterized by motor neuron degeneration, resulting in progressive muscle atrophy and weakness. Before the emergence of disease-modifying therapies, children with the most severe form of SMA would never achieve the ability to sit independently. Only 8% survived beyond 20 months of age without permanent ventilator support. One such therapy, onasemnogene abeparvovec, an adeno-associated virus-based gene replacement therapy, delivers functional human SMN through a one-time intravenous infusion. In addition to substantially improving survival, onasemnogene abeparvovec was found to increase motor milestone attainment and reduce the need for respiratory or nutritional support in many patients. This expert opinion provides recommendations and practical considerations on the patient-centered decisions to use onasemnogene abeparvovec. Recommendations include the need for patient-centered multidisciplinary care and patient selection to identify those with underlying medical conditions or active infections to reduce risks. We also describe the importance of retesting patients with elevated anti-adeno-associated virus serotype 9 antibodies. Recommendations for prednisolone tapering and monitoring for potential adverse events, including hepatotoxicity and thrombotic microangiopathy, are described. The need for caregiver education on managing day-to-day care at time of treatment and patient- and family-centered discussions on realistic expectations are also recommended. We detail the importance of following standard-of-care guidance and long-term monitoring of all children with SMA who have received one or more disease-modifying therapy using registries. We also highlight the need for presymptomatic or early symptomatic treatment of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Crystal M Proud
- Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Michelle A Farrar
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney and Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kwon
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kayoko Saito
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Isabelle Desguerre
- Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, University of Paris, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Hugh J McMillan
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Mulle JG, Sullivan PF, Hjerling-Leffler J. Editorial overview: Rare CNV disorders and neuropsychiatric phenotypes: opportunities, challenges, solutions. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 68:iii-ix. [PMID: 34059379 PMCID: PMC8722467 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gladys Mulle
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta GA 30322, United States.
| | - Patrick F Sullivan
- Departments of Genetics and Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jens Hjerling-Leffler
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Metabolic Dysfunction in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115913. [PMID: 34072857 PMCID: PMC8198411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder leading to paralysis, muscle atrophy, and death. Significant advances in antisense oligonucleotide treatment and gene therapy have made it possible for SMA patients to benefit from improvements in many aspects of the once devastating natural history of the disease. How the depletion of survival motor neuron (SMN) protein, the product of the gene implicated in the disease, leads to the consequent pathogenic changes remains unresolved. Over the past few years, evidence toward a potential contribution of gastrointestinal, metabolic, and endocrine defects to disease phenotype has surfaced. These findings ranged from disrupted body composition, gastrointestinal tract, fatty acid, glucose, amino acid, and hormonal regulation. Together, these changes could have a meaningful clinical impact on disease traits. However, it is currently unclear whether these findings are secondary to widespread denervation or unique to the SMA phenotype. This review provides an in-depth account of metabolism-related research available to date, with a discussion of unique features compared to other motor neuron and related disorders.
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223
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Jiang Z, Li N, Zhu D, Ren L, Shao Q, Yu K, Yang G. Genetically modified cell sheets in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Biomaterials 2021; 275:120908. [PMID: 34119885 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genetically modified cell sheet technology is emerging as a promising biomedical tool to deliver therapeutic genes for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Virus-based gene transfection and non-viral gene transfection have been used to fabricate genetically modified cell sheets. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown various beneficial effects of genetically modified cell sheets in the regeneration of bone, periodontal tissue, cartilage and nerves, as well as the amelioration of dental implant osseointegration, myocardial infarction, skeletal muscle ischemia and kidney injury. Furthermore, this technology provides a potential treatment option for various hereditary diseases. However, the method has several limitations, such as safety concerns and difficulties in controlling transgene expression. Therefore, recent studies explored efficient and safe gene transfection methods, prolonged and controllable transgene expression and their potential application in personalized and precision medicine. This review summarizes various types of genetically modified cell sheets, preparation procedures, therapeutic applications and possible improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Jiang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Na Li
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Danji Zhu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Lingfei Ren
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Qin Shao
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Ke Yu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Guoli Yang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
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Goemans N. Gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy: hope and caution. Lancet Neurol 2021; 20:251-252. [PMID: 33743228 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00071-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Goemans
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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