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McPheron MA, Felker MV. Clinical perspectives: Treating spinal muscular atrophy. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2489-2504. [PMID: 38894541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare and progressive neuromuscular disease that, without treatment, leads to progressive weakness and often death. A plethora of studies have led to the approval of three high-cost and effective treatments since 2016. These treatments, nusinersen, onasemnogene abeparvovec, and risdiplam, have not been directly compared and have varying challenges in administration. In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the use of these medications, the process of treatment selection, monitoring after treatment, the limited data comparing treatments, as well as future directions for investigation and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly A McPheron
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Marcia V Felker
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Ramdas S, Oskoui M, Servais L. Treatment Options in Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A Pragmatic Approach for Clinicians. Drugs 2024; 84:747-762. [PMID: 38878146 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-024-02051-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare neurodegenerative neuromuscular disorder with a wide phenotypic spectrum of severity. SMA was previously life limiting for patients with the most severe phenotype and resulted in progressive disability for those with less severe phenotypes. This has changed dramatically in the past few years with the approvals of three disease-modifying treatments. We review the evidence supporting the use of currently approved SMA treatments (nusinersen, onasemnogene abeparvovec, and risdiplam), focusing on mechanisms of action, side effect profiles, published clinical trial data, health economics, and pending questions. Whilst there is robust data from clinical trials of efficacy and side effect profile for individual drugs in select SMA populations, there are no comparative head-to-head clinical trials. This presents a challenge for clinicians who need to make recommendations on the best treatment option for an individual patient and we hope to provide a pragmatic approach for clinicians across each SMA profile based on current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sithara Ramdas
- Department of Paediatrics, MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Maryam Oskoui
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Laurent Servais
- Department of Paediatrics, MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires, University Hospital Liège and University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
- Academic Paediatric Department, Level 2 Children Hospital-John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.
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Bagga P, Singh S, Ram G, Kapil S, Singh A. Diving into progress: a review on current therapeutic advancements in spinal muscular atrophy. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1368658. [PMID: 38854961 PMCID: PMC11157111 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1368658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an uncommon disorder associated with genes characterized by the gradual weakening and deterioration of muscles, often leading to substantial disability and premature mortality. Over the past decade, remarkable strides have been made in the field of SMA therapeutics, revolutionizing the landscape of patient care. One pivotal advancement is the development of gene-targeted therapies, such as nusinersen, onasemnogene abeparvovec and risdiplam which have demonstrated unprecedented efficacy in slowing disease progression. These therapies aim to address the root cause of SMA by targeting the survival motor neuron (SMN) gene, effectively restoring deficient SMN protein levels. The advent of these innovative approaches has transformed the prognosis for many SMA patients, offering a glimmer of hope where there was once limited therapeutic recourse. Furthermore, the emergence of small molecule compounds and RNA-targeting strategies has expanded the therapeutic arsenal against SMA. These novel interventions exhibit diverse mechanisms of action, including SMN protein stabilization and modulation of RNA splicing, showcasing the multifaceted nature of SMA treatment research. Collective efforts of pharmaceutical industries, research centers, and patient advocacy groups have played an important role in expediting the translation of scientific discoveries into visible clinical benefits. This review not only highlights the remarkable progress achieved in SMA therapeutics but also generates the ray of hope for the ongoing efforts required to enhance accessibility, optimize treatment strategies, rehabilitation (care and therapies) and ultimately pave the way for an improved quality of life for individuals affected by SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Bagga
- School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, India
| | - Sudhakar Singh
- School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, India
| | - Gobind Ram
- PG Department of Biotechnology, Layalpur Khalsa College, Jalandhar, India
| | - Subham Kapil
- Department of Zoology, DAV College Jalandhar, Jalandhar, India
| | - Avtar Singh
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computing (SoEEC), Adama Science and Technology University (AS-TU), Adama, Ethiopia
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Kantaria R, Baker K, Beckley-Kartey S, Gorni K, Montrocher-Ober I, Vindevoghel L. Global Risdiplam Compassionate Use Program for Patients with Type 1 or 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Clin Ther 2024; 46:374-378. [PMID: 38461122 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic neuromuscular disease causing progressive muscle weakness and reducing life expectancy. Risdiplam (Evrysdi; Genentech/F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland) is a drug approved for use in the treatment of patients with SMA. The ongoing global risdiplam Compassionate Use Program (CUP), initiated in November 2019, is the largest CUP in SMA, currently providing access to risdiplam for >2000 patients with type 1 or 2 SMA in 59 countries. Here, the challenges and learnings from the risdiplam CUP are presented. METHODS Enrolled patients (aged ≥2 months) had type 1 or 2 SMA and no alternative treatment options (ie, they were not medically eligible for approved SMA treatments, were unable to continue their SMA treatment due to medical reasons, were at risk for lack/loss of SMA treatment efficacy, or did not qualify for/had no access to SMA treatment within a clinical trial). Requests were made by the treating physicians via an end-to-end system. FINDINGS The risdiplam CUP highlighted the importance of collaborating with patient advocacy groups early to learn about patients' perspectives on unmet medical needs, understanding the sometimes-unique nature of local regulations and requirements, and adapting physician- and patient-eligibility criteria. Key learnings were obtained from enrolling patients from low- to middle-income countries and from countries without dedicated Compassionate Use regulations, and from operating the CUP during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. IMPLICATIONS The risdiplam CUP experience was successful in many ways and may help to design and implement future CUPs in rare diseases, as well as patients living in countries or in circumstances in which access to innovative treatments is a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Kantaria
- Neuroscience and Rare Disease, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Karen Baker
- Medical Alliances Operations, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Senam Beckley-Kartey
- Neuroscience and Rare Disease, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ksenija Gorni
- Neuroscience and Rare Disease, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Montrocher-Ober
- Medical Alliances Operations, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Vindevoghel
- Medical Alliances Operations, Product Development Medical Affairs, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
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Bjelica B, Wohnrade C, Cespedes I, Osmanovic A, Schreiber-Katz O, Petri S. Risdiplam therapy in adults with 5q-SMA: observational study on motor function and treatment satisfaction. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:67. [PMID: 38368338 PMCID: PMC10873992 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03562-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to describe the experience of a single neuromuscular center in Germany in treating adult spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients with risdiplam and to analyze motor function and treatment satisfaction during a follow-up period up to 20 months. METHODS Fourteen patients with type 2 or 3 SMA (seven with SMA type 2, six with SMA type 3; age range: 18-51) were included. The Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM) and the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) were recorded at baseline and at follow-up (month 4, 8, 12, 16, 20). Treatment adverse events were collected at every follow-up visit. Patients' treatment satisfaction was assessed by the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM). RESULTS Half of the patients reached the 20-month follow-up. Based on the HFMSE score, no patients had clinically meaningful improvement. Twelve remained stable (92.3%), two showed transient clinically meaningful deterioration (15.4%) and one experienced lasting clinically meaningful deterioration (7.7%). Based on the RULM scores, seven patients were either stable or demonstrated clinically meaningful improvement (53.8%) and six showed clinically meaningful deterioration (46.2%). There was no treatment withdrawal during the follow-up. The most common adverse events were skin rash/increased skin sensitivity to sunlight (n = 3), diarrhea (n = 3), aphthous ulcer (n = 3) and abdominal pain (n = 2). Most patients stated to be at least "satisfied" with the medication. CONCLUSIONS Risdiplam was well tolerated. Half of the patients remained stable or improved after risdiplam initiation. Larger and multicentric studies are needed to better understand the long-term effects of risdiplam in adult SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Bjelica
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany.
| | - Camilla Wohnrade
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany
| | - Iraima Cespedes
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany
| | - Alma Osmanovic
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany
- Essen Center for Rare Diseases (EZSE), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Olivia Schreiber-Katz
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Straße, Hannover, 30625, Germany
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Yeo CJJ, Tizzano EF, Darras BT. Challenges and opportunities in spinal muscular atrophy therapeutics. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:205-218. [PMID: 38267192 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy was the most common inherited cause of infant death until 2016, when three therapies became available: the antisense oligonucleotide nusinersen, gene replacement therapy with onasemnogene abeparvovec, and the small-molecule splicing modifier risdiplam. These drugs compensate for deficient survival motor neuron protein and have improved lifespan and quality of life in infants and children with spinal muscular atrophy. Given the lifelong implications of these innovative therapies, ways to detect and manage treatment-modified disease characteristics are needed. All three drugs are more effective when given before development of symptoms, or as early as possible in individuals who have already developed symptoms. Early subtle symptoms might be missed, and disease onset might occur in utero in severe spinal muscular atrophy subtypes; in some countries, newborn screening is allowing diagnosis soon after birth and early treatment. Adults with spinal muscular atrophy report stabilisation of disease and less fatigue with treatment. These subjective benefits need to be weighed against the high costs of the drugs to patients and health-care systems. Clinical consensus is required on therapeutic windows and on outcome measures and biomarkers that can be used to monitor drug benefit, toxicity, and treatment-modified disease characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal J J Yeo
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore; National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng and Singapore General Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Eduardo F Tizzano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; Genetics Medicine, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Basil T Darras
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Sitas B, Hancevic M, Bilic K, Bilic H, Bilic E. Risdiplam Real World Data - Looking Beyond Motor Neurons and Motor Function Measures. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:75-84. [PMID: 38073396 PMCID: PMC10789321 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risdiplam is an orally administered treatment for spinal muscular atrophy which leads to an improvement in motor function as measured by functional motor scales compared with placebo. Although risdiplam has been registered since 2020, real-world data in adults is still scarce. There have been no new safety signals so far, with some results pointing that risdiplam may be effectiveObjective:The objective was to present real-world data of 31 adult patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 2 and type 3 treated with risdiplam in the Republic of CroatiaMethods:Treatment effects were assessed with motor function tests and patient reported outcome measures, including Individualized Neuromuscular Quality of Life questionnaire, and Jaw Functional Limitation Scale. Side effects, as well as subjective improvements and symptoms, were noted. RESULTS Majority of patients did not report any side effects. During treatment, we have observed clinically meaningful improvements in some patients, with stabilization of motor functions in the remaining patients. The majority of patients with bulbar function impairment experienced bulbar function improvement, all patients reported an increased quality of life with treatment. An unexpected observed treatment effect was weight gain in a third of all patients with some patients reporting an increase in appetite and subjective improvement in digestion. CONCLUSIONS Risdiplam treatment was well tolerated with subjective and objective positive outcomes registered as measured by functional motor scales and patient-reported outcomes. Since risdiplam is administered orally and acts as a systemic therapy for a multisystemic disorder, effects in systems other than neuromuscular can be expected and should be monitored. Due to systemic nature of the disease patients need multidisciplinary monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Sitas
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirea Hancevic
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Hrvoje Bilic
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ervina Bilic
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Medical School University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Zanoteli E, Araujo APDQC, Becker MM, Fortes CPDD, França MC, Machado-Costa MC, Marques W, Matsui Jr C, Mendonça RH, Nardes F, Oliveira ASB, Pessoa ALS, Saute JAM, Sgobbi P, Van der Linden H, Gurgel-Giannetti J. Consensus from the Brazilian Academy of Neurology for the diagnosis, genetic counseling, and use of disease-modifying therapies in 5q spinal muscular atrophy. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2024; 82:1-18. [PMID: 38316428 PMCID: PMC10843933 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy linked to chromosome 5 (SMA-5q) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by mutations in the SMN1. SMA-5q is characterized by progressive degeneration of the spinal cord and bulbar motor neurons, causing severe motor and respiratory impairment with reduced survival, especially in its more severe clinical forms. In recent years, highly effective disease-modifying therapies have emerged, either acting by regulating the splicing of exon 7 of the SMN2 gene or adding a copy of the SMN1 gene through gene therapy, providing a drastic change in the natural history of the disease. In this way, developing therapeutic guides and expert consensus becomes essential to direct the use of these therapies in clinical practice. This consensus, prepared by Brazilian experts, aimed to review the main available disease-modifying therapies, critically analyze the results of clinical studies, and provide recommendations for their use in clinical practice for patients with SMA-5q. This consensus also addresses aspects related to diagnosis, genetic counseling, and follow-up of patients under drug treatment. Thus, this consensus provides valuable information regarding the current management of SMA-5q, helping therapeutic decisions in clinical practice and promoting additional gains in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmar Zanoteli
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Michele Michelin Becker
- Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Departamento de Pediatria, Unidade de Neurologia Infantil, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil.
| | | | - Marcondes Cavalcante França
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Departamento de Neurologia, Campinas SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Wilson Marques
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Neurociências e Ciências do Comportamento, Ribeirão Preto SP, Brazil.
| | - Ciro Matsui Jr
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo Holanda Mendonça
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.
| | - Flávia Nardes
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira, Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Jonas Alex Morales Saute
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Serviços de Genética Médica e de Neurologia, Porto Alegre RS, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Sgobbi
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Neurologia e Neurocirurgia, São Paulo SP, Brazil.
| | - Hélio Van der Linden
- Centro de Reabilitação Dr. Henrique Santillo, Serviço de Neurologia Infantil e Neurofisiologia, Goiânia GO, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Gurgel-Giannetti
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Pediatria, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.
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Cornell N, Childs AM, Wraige E, Munot P, Ambegaonkar G, Chow G, Hughes I, Illingworth M, Majumdar A, Marini-Bettolo C, Parasuraman D, Spinty S, Willis T, Scoto M, Baranello G. Risdiplam in Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Safety Profile and Use Through The Early Access to Medicine Scheme for the Paediatric Cohort in Great Britain. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:361-368. [PMID: 38189761 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive neuromuscular disease caused by mutations in Survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, leading to reduction in survival motor neuron protein (SMN), key for motor neuron survival and function in the brainstem and spinal cord. Risdiplam is an orally administered SMN2-splicing modifier which increases production of functional SMN protein. Risdiplam was offered in the UK under early access to medicines scheme (EAMS) to SMA type 1 and 2 patients aged 2 months and older, not suitable for authorised treatments from September 2020 to December 2021. Objective To describe the largest paediatric European real-world set of data on patients' characteristics and short-term safety for risdiplam in Great Britain through EAMS. Methods We collated data from SMA REACH UK a national clinical and research network for all patients enrolled onto EAMS and assessed all submitted adverse events. Results Of the 92 patients; 78% were Type 2 SMA, mean age 10.9 years, range 0-17 years. 56 were treatment naïve, 33 previously treated; of these 25 had received nusinersen, 3 previous treatment unknown. Sixty adverse events (AEs) were reported occurring in 34 patients. The commonest were respiratory tract infections and gastrointestinal disturbance. Four life-threatening events were reported with 2 deaths and permanent cessation of risdiplam in 3 patients.Overall, 38/60 AEs were considered unrelated to risdiplam, 10/60 related to risdiplam and for 12/60 causality not specified. Conclusions This study found a safety profile similar to clinical trials with no new safety concerns identified. With the restricted eligibility of onasemnogene abeparvovec and complications of nusinersen administration, EAMS allowed access or continued treatment to naïve patients or patients no longer suitable for approved medications. Collection of longitudinal data for this complex population is needed, to provide greater insights into risdiplam's role in addressing patients' needs into the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Cornell
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Developmental Neuroscience Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre & Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | | | - Pinki Munot
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Developmental Neuroscience Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre & Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | - Gabriel Chow
- Queen's Medical Centre Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Imelda Hughes
- Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | - Chiara Marini-Bettolo
- John Walton Muscular Research Centre, Newcastle University and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation trust
| | | | | | - Tracey Willis
- The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Oswestry, UK
| | - Mariacristina Scoto
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Developmental Neuroscience Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre & Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Giovanni Baranello
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Developmental Neuroscience Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre & Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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Pascual-Morena C, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Cavero-Redondo I, Martínez-García I, Moreno-Herráiz N, Álvarez-Bueno C, Saz-Lara A. Efficacy of risdiplam in spinal muscular atrophy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacotherapy 2024; 44:97-105. [PMID: 37574770 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of risdiplam on motor and respiratory function in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We systematically searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from inception to March 2023. We included pre-post studies that determined the effect of risdiplam on the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP-INTEND), the 32-item Motor Function Measure (MFM32), the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale - Expanded (HFMSE), respiratory function, and the proportion of risdiplam-related adverse events in a population with SMA (phenotypes 1 and 2/3). Meta-analyses were also performed where possible. Eleven studies were included. After 12 months of treatment, 57% of participants with SMA1 achieved a CHOP-INTEND score ≥ 40 points, and more than half were able to feed orally and had head control. In SMA2/3, MFM32, RULM, and HFMSE increased by 2.09 (1.17, 3.01), 1.73 (1.25, 2.20), and 1.00 (0.40, 1.59) points, respectively. Efficacy on respiratory function in SMA2/3 was inconsistent. Finally, 16% of participants experienced adverse events, but serious adverse events could not be quantified due to a lack of cases. The limited available evidence suggests that risdiplam is an effective and safe drug for the treatment of SMA. In addition, long-term clinical benefit may be partly determined by the stage of disease at which treatment is initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Pascual-Morena
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Iván Cavero-Redondo
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Irene Martínez-García
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Nerea Moreno-Herráiz
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | - Celia Álvarez-Bueno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Universidad Politécnica y Artística del Paraguay, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Alicia Saz-Lara
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla - La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
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11
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Balaji L, Farrar MA, D'Silva AM, Kariyawasam DS. Decision-making and challenges within the evolving treatment algorithm in spinal muscular atrophy: a clinical perspective. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:571-586. [PMID: 37227306 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2218549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The clinical application of disease modifying therapies has dramatically changed the paradigm of the management of people with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), from sole reliance on symptomatic care directed toward the downstream consequences of muscle weakness, to proactive intervention and even preventative care. AREAS COVERED In this perspective, the authors evaluate the contemporary therapeutic landscape of SMA and discuss the evolution of novel phenotypes and the treatment algorithm, including the key factors that define individual treatment choice and treatment response. The benefits achieved by early diagnosis and treatment through newborn screening are highlighted, alongside an appraisal of emerging prognostic methods and classification frameworks to inform clinicians, patients, and families about disease course, manage expectations, and improve care planning. A future perspective of unmet needs and challenges is provided, emphasizing the key role of research. EXPERT OPINION SMN-augmenting therapies have improved health outcomes for people with SMA and powered the practice of personalized medicine. Within this new proactive diagnostic and treatment paradigm, new phenotypes and different disease trajectories are emerging. Ongoing collaborative research efforts to understand the biology of SMA and define optimal response are critical to refining future approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Balaji
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle A Farrar
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- UNSW Kensington Campus, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arlene M D'Silva
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- UNSW Kensington Campus, Sydney, Australia
| | - Didu S Kariyawasam
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health UNSW, Sydney, Australia
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12
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Li Y, Zeng H, Wei Y, Ma X, He Z. An Overview of the Therapeutic Strategies for the Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:180-191. [PMID: 36762938 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a recessive, neurodegenerative disorder. It is one of the most common genetic causes of infant mortality and is characterized by muscle weakness, loss of ambulation, and respiratory failure. SMA is primarily caused by a homozygous deletion or mutation of the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. Humans possess a second, nearly identical copy of SMN, known as the SMN2 gene. Although the disease severity correlates inversely with the number of SMN2 copies present, it can never completely compensate for the loss of SMN1 in patients with SMA; SMN2 expresses only a fraction of the functional SMN transcript. The SMN protein is ubiquitous in human cells and plays several roles, ranging from assembling the spliceosome machinery to autophagy, RNA metabolism, signal transduction, cellular homeostasis, DNA repair, and recombination. Although the underlying mechanism remains unclear, anterior horn cells of the spinal cord gray matter are highly vulnerable to decreased SMN protein levels. To harness SMN2's ability to provide SMN function, two treatment strategies have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including an antisense oligonucleotide, nusinersen (Spinraza), and a small molecule, risdiplam (Evrysdi). Onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma) is an FDA-approved adeno-associated virus 9-mediated gene replacement therapy that creates a copy of the human SMN1 gene. In this review, we summarize the SMA etiology and FDA-approved therapies, and discuss the development of SMA therapeutic strategies and the challenges we faced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyi Li
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongyu Zeng
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhao Wei
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyao He
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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13
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Ñungo Garzón NC, Pitarch Castellano I, Sevilla T, Vázquez-Costa JF. Risdiplam in non-sitter patients aged 16 years and older with 5q spinal muscular atrophy. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:407-411. [PMID: 36815750 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Risdiplam has been approved for the treatment of patients with 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), but data from type 2 non-sitter patients are lacking. In this study we describe our experience regarding the use of risdiplam in a series of type 2 non-sitter patients. METHODS Type 2 SMA patients over 16 years of age were administered risdiplam through the expanded access program (NCT04256265). Patients were followed-up with a battery of scales and clinical measures. RESULTS Six non-sitter patients (17 to 46 years old) were treated with risdiplam. One patient reported mild adverse events (dyspepsia and headache). After 1 year of treatment, all patients showed clinically meaningful improvements in at least one scale and none of them showed any clinically meaningful deterioration. Two patients showed a clinically meaningful increase in body mass index (>5%) and two others scored higher on the Revised Upper Limb Module (>2 points). Moreover, five patients had clinically meaningful improvements on the Egen Klassifikation 2 scale (>2 points), including the motor (axial and upper limbs), bulbar (speech and swallowing), and respiratory (coughing) domains. Four subjects achieved at least one of the goals set with the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS). DISCUSSION This series suggests that risdiplam is safe and may be effective in non-sitter SMA patients older than 16 years of age. In these patients, functional scales and the GAS would be more sensitive than motor scales to detect changes, because they include axial, bulbar, and respiratory domains. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Carolina Ñungo Garzón
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, València, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, València, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Pitarch Castellano
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, València, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, València, Spain
| | - Teresa Sevilla
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, València, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, València, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universitat de València, València, Spain
| | - Juan Francisco Vázquez-Costa
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, València, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, València, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universitat de València, València, Spain
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14
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Chiriboga CA, Bruno C, Duong T, Fischer D, Mercuri E, Kirschner J, Kostera-Pruszczyk A, Jaber B, Gorni K, Kletzl H, Carruthers I, Martin C, Warren F, Scalco RS, Wagner KR, Muntoni F. Risdiplam in Patients Previously Treated with Other Therapies for Spinal Muscular Atrophy: An Interim Analysis from the JEWELFISH Study. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:543-557. [PMID: 36780114 PMCID: PMC9924181 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00444-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Risdiplam is a survival of motor neuron 2 (SMN2) splicing modifier for the treatment of patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The JEWELFISH study (NCT03032172) was designed to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of risdiplam in previously treated pediatric and adult patients with types 1-3 SMA. Here, an analysis was performed after all patients had received at least 1 year of treatment with risdiplam. METHODS Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of 5q-autosomal recessive SMA between the ages of 6 months and 60 years were eligible for enrollment. Patients were previously enrolled in the MOONFISH study (NCT02240355) with splicing modifier RG7800 or treated with olesoxime, nusinersen, or onasemnogene abeparvovec. The primary objectives of the JEWELFISH study were to evaluate the safety and tolerability of risdiplam and investigate the PK after 2 years of treatment. RESULTS A total of 174 patients enrolled: MOONFISH study (n = 13), olesoxime (n = 71 patients), nusinersen (n = 76), onasemnogene abeparvovec (n = 14). Most patients (78%) had three SMN2 copies. The median age and weight of patients at enrollment was 14.0 years (1-60 years) and 39.1 kg (9.2-108.9 kg), respectively. About 63% of patients aged 2-60 years had a baseline total score of less than 10 on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale-Expanded and 83% had scoliosis. The most common adverse event (AE) was upper respiratory tract infection and pyrexia (30 patients each; 17%). Pneumonia (four patients; 2%) was the most frequently reported serious AE (SAE). The rates of AEs and SAEs per 100 patient-years were lower in the second 6-month period compared with the first. An increase in SMN protein was observed in blood after risdiplam treatment and was comparable across all ages and body weight quartiles. CONCLUSIONS The safety and PD of risdiplam in patients who were previously treated were consistent with those of treatment-naïve patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A. Chiriboga
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 180 Fort Washington Avenue # 552, New York, NY 10032-3791 USA
| | - Claudio Bruno
- Centre of Translational and Experimental Myology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, and Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health-DINOGMI, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Tina Duong
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | - Dirk Fischer
- Division of Neuropediatrics, University Children’s Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eugenio Mercuri
- Pediatric Neurology Institute, Catholic University and Nemo Pediatrico, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Janbernd Kirschner
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anna Kostera-Pruszczyk
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland ,ERN EURO-NMD, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Birgit Jaber
- Pharma Development, Safety, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ksenija Gorni
- PDMA Neuroscience and Rare Disease, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Heidemarie Kletzl
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Renata S. Scalco
- Product Development Neuroscience, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kathryn R. Wagner
- Product Development Neuroscience, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health University College London, and Great Ormond Street Hospital Trust, London, UK
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15
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McCluskey G, Lamb S, Mason S, NicFhirleinn G, Douglas I, Tirupathi S, Morrison KE, McConville J. Risdiplam for the treatment of adults with spinal muscular atrophy: Experience of the Northern Ireland neuromuscular service. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:157-161. [PMID: 36382958 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Risdiplam is the newest available treatment for patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). There is little information on its use in adults. We present the clinical experience of adults with SMA treated with risdiplam through the Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) in Northern Ireland. METHODS All adults with Type 2 SMA attending the regional neuromuscular clinic were offered risdiplam treatment. Patients had assessments of respiratory function, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Quality of Life Measure for People with Slowly Progressive and Genetic Neuromuscular Disease (QOLM), and Egen Klassifikation 2 (EK2) every 3 mo and the Revised Upper Limb Module for SMA (RULM) at baseline and 6 mo. All assessments other than the RULM were carried out virtually. RESULTS Six of seven patients who were offered risdiplam consented to treatment through the EAMS (five female, one male, mean age 33.7 y). It was generally well tolerated other than skin photosensitivity in all patients. All patients remained on therapy at 9 mo. All reported meaningful improvements in overall strength, sense of wellbeing, and speech quality. There was no change in respiratory function, daytime hypersomnolence, or upper limb function (all p > .05). There was improvement in the QOLM (p = .027) and EK2 (p = .009). DISCUSSION Our study raises hopes that risdiplam may be efficacious in adults; however, more systematic studies in larger cohorts are needed before drawing any definitive conclusions. This study also demonstrated the feasibility of virtual assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin McCluskey
- Department of Neurology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK.,Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine, Altnagelvin Hospital Campus, Ulster University, Derry, UK
| | - Siobhan Lamb
- Department of Neurology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Sarah Mason
- Department of Neurology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK
| | - Grainne NicFhirleinn
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Isobel Douglas
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Sandya Tirupathi
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, UK
| | - Karen E Morrison
- Department of Neurology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, UK.,Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Wijekoon N, Gonawala L, Ratnayake P, Sirisena D, Gunasekara H, Dissanayake A, Senanayake S, Keshavaraj A, Hathout Y, Steinbusch HW, Mohan C, Dalal A, Hoffman E, D de Silva K. Gene therapy for selected neuromuscular and trinucleotide repeat disorders - An insight to subsume South Asia for multicenter clinical trials. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2023; 14:146-153. [PMID: 36819775 PMCID: PMC9931913 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In this article, the authors discuss how they utilized the genetic mutation data in Sri Lankan Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) and Huntington's disease (HD) patients and compare the available literature from South Asian countries to identifying potential candidates for available gene therapy for DMD, SMA, SCA and HD patients. Methods Rare disease patients (n = 623) with the characteristic clinical findings suspected of HD, SCA, SMA and Muscular Dystrophy were genetically confirmed using Multiplex Ligation Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA), and single plex PCR. A survey was conducted in the "Wiley database on Gene Therapy Trials Worldwide" to identify DMD, SMA, SCA, and HD gene therapy clinical trials performed worldwide up to April 2021. In order to identify candidates for gene therapy in other neighboring countries we compared our findings with available literature from India and Pakistan which has utilized the same molecular diagnostic protocol to our study. Results From the overall cohort of 623 rare disease patients with the characteristic clinical findings suspected of HD, SCA, SMA and Muscular Dystrophy, n = 343 (55%) [Muscular Dystrophy- 65%; (DMD-139, Becker Muscular Dystrophy -BMD-11), SCA type 1-3-53% (SCA1-61,SCA2- 23, SCA3- 39), HD- 52% (45) and SMA- 34% (22)] patients were positive for molecular diagnostics by MLPA and single plex PCR. A total of 147 patients in Sri Lanka amenable to available gene therapy; [DMD-83, SMA-15 and HD-49] were identified. A comparison of Sri Lankan finding with available literature from India and Pakistan identified a total of 1257 patients [DMD-1076, SMA- 57, and HD-124] from these three South Asian Countries as amenable for existing gene therapy trials. DMD, SMA, and HD gene therapy clinical trials (113 studies) performed worldwide up to April 2021 were concentrated mostly (99%) in High Income Countries (HIC) and Upper Middle-Income Countries (UMIC). However, studies on the potential use of anti-sense oligonucleotides (ASO) for treatment of SCAs have yet to reach clinical trials. Conclusion Most genetic therapies for neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders have been evaluated for efficacy primarily in Western populations. No multicenter gene therapy clinical trial sites for DMD, SMA and HD in the South Asian region, leading to lack of knowledge on the safety and efficacy of such personalized therapies in other populations, including South Asians. By fostering collaboration between researchers, clinicians, patient advocacy groups, government and industry in gene therapy initiatives for the inherited-diseases community in the developing world would link the Global North and Global South and breathe life into the motto "Together we can make a difference".
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Key Words
- BMD, Becker muscular dystrophy
- Bio Bank
- DMD, Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Developing Countries
- Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
- EMA, European Medical Agency
- EMQN, European Molecular Quality Genetics Network
- FDA, U. S. Food and Drug Administration
- HD, Huntington’s disease
- HIC, High Income Countries
- Huntington’s Disease
- Indian Sub-continent
- MLPA, Multiplex Ligation Dependent Probe Amplification
- Neurogenetic Disorders
- SCA, Spinocerebellar ataxia
- SMA, Spinal muscular atrophy
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- Spinocerebellar Ataxia
- UMIC, Upper Middle Income Countries
- WTO, World Trade Organization
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalaka Wijekoon
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Innovations in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka,School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands,EURON - European Graduate School of Neuroscience, the Netherlands
| | - Lakmal Gonawala
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Innovations in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka,School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands,EURON - European Graduate School of Neuroscience, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yetrib Hathout
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, New York, USA
| | - Harry W.M. Steinbusch
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands,EURON - European Graduate School of Neuroscience, the Netherlands,Dept. of Brain & Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeungbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Chandra Mohan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ashwin Dalal
- Diagnostics Division, Center for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, India
| | - Eric Hoffman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, New York, USA
| | - K.Ranil D de Silva
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Innovations in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka,EURON - European Graduate School of Neuroscience, the Netherlands,Institute for Combinatorial Advanced Research and Education (KDU-CARE), General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Ratmalana, Sri Lanka,Corresponding author at: Institute for Combinatorial Advanced Research and Education (KDU-CARE), General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Ratmalana, Sri Lanka.
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Hahn A, Günther R, Ludolph A, Schwartz O, Trollmann R, Weydt P, Weiler M, Neuland K, Schwaderer MS, Hagenacker T. Short-term safety results from compassionate use of risdiplam in patients with spinal muscular atrophy in Germany. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:276. [PMID: 35854272 PMCID: PMC9295446 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02420-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oral, selective SMN2-splicing modifier risdiplam obtained European approval in March 2021 for the treatment of patients ≥ 2 months old with a clinical diagnosis of 5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) 1/2/3 or with 1-4 SMN2 gene copies. For the preceding 12 months, this compassionate use program (CUP) made risdiplam available to patients with SMA1/2 in Germany who could not receive any approved SMA therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with SMA1/2, aged ≥ 2 months at enrollment, could be included if they were not eligible for, no longer responsive to, or not able to tolerate nusinersen or not able to receive onasemnogene abeparvovec. Oral risdiplam dosing ranged from 0.2 mg/kg to 5 mg depending on age and weight. All treatment decisions were made by the attending physicians, who were required to report all adverse events (AEs). RESULTS Between March 12, 2020 and March 30, 2021, 36 patients with SMA1 and 98 patients with SMA2 were enrolled, with 31 patients and 80 patients receiving ≥ 1 risdiplam dose, respectively. The median (range) age was 10.5 (3-52) years in the SMA1 cohort, and 26.5 (3-60) years in the SMA2 cohort. 22.2% of patients with SMA1 and 48.0% with SMA2 were treatment-naïve. Most patients were not eligible/could not continue to receive nusinersen due to scoliosis/safety risk (SMA1: 75.0%; SMA2: 96.9%), risks associated with sedation (77.8%; 63.3%), or loss of efficacy (30.6%; 12.2%). Safety data were generally in line with the safety profile of risdiplam in ongoing clinical studies. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most common AEs. For patients with SMA1, 30 AEs were reported in 13 cases with 2 serious AEs in 1 patient. For SMA2, 100 AEs were documented in 31 case reports, including 8 serious AEs in 2 patients. CONCLUSIONS We present the first real-world safety data of risdiplam in patients with SMA in Germany. Our observations indicated no new safety signals under real-world conditions. Real-world SMA1/2 populations comprise considerable numbers of patients who are not eligible for gene therapy and cannot tolerate or have failed nusinersen treatment. This medical need may be addressed by oral risdiplam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Hahn
- Department of Child Neurology, University of Gießen, Giessen, Germany
| | - René Günther
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Albert Ludolph
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Oliver Schwartz
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Patrick Weydt
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Gerontopsychiatry/Neurology, University of Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Markus Weiler
- Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Tim Hagenacker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.
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