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Hirata Y, Hamano SI, Hirano D, Matsuura R, Koichihara R, Takeda R, Takeuchi H, Kikuchi K. Early Response, Long-Term Seizure Outcome, and Very-Low-Dose Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone Therapy for Infantile Epileptic Spasms Syndrome With Down Syndrome. Pediatr Neurol 2024; 156:191-197. [PMID: 38795573 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2024.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) with Down syndrome has good treatment response and good seizure outcomes with high-dose adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) therapy. We investigated the early treatment response of epileptic spasms (ES), long-term seizure outcome, and efficacy of very-low-dose ACTH therapy for IESS with Down syndrome. METHODS We retrospectively investigated patients with Down syndrome and IESS between April 1983 and January 2023. We defined response to treatment as clinical remission and electrographic resolution of hypsarrhythmia after treatment for more than one month and early treatment as any treatment for ES within three months of initiation of treatment. Long-term seizure outcomes were determined by the presence of any type of seizure within one year of the last visit. We investigated the dosage and efficacy of very-low-dose ACTH therapy. RESULTS Thirty patients were enrolled with a median follow-up period of 7.7 years (range: 1.3 to 19.1). The response and relapse rates in the early treatment were 83.3% and 16.0%, respectively. The seizure-free rate of long-term seizure outcomes was 80.0%. Long-term seizure outcomes correlated with early treatment response to ES. The response rate of very-low-dose ACTH therapy was 59.3%. The efficacy of ACTH therapy tended to be dose-dependent (P = 0.055). CONCLUSIONS Early treatment response to ES may be useful in predicting long-term seizure outcomes of IESS with Down syndrome. Very-low-dose ACTH therapy was the most effective treatment for ES and could exhibit dose-dependent efficacy. Depending on the IESS etiology, the ACTH dose could be reduced to minimize its side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Hirata
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan.
| | - Shin-Ichiro Hamano
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan; Department for Child Health and Human, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Daishi Hirano
- Department of Pediatrics, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryuki Matsuura
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Reiko Koichihara
- Department for Child Health and Human, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rikako Takeda
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Takeuchi
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Kikuchi
- Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
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2
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Paprocka J, Coppola A, Cuccurullo C, Stawicka E, Striano P. Epilepsy, EEG and chromosomal rearrangements. Epilepsia Open 2024. [PMID: 38837855 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal abnormalities are associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, one of the more commonly observed of which is epilepsy. The frequency, severity, and type of epileptic seizures vary according to the macro- and microrearrangements present. Even within a single chromosomal anomaly, we most often deal with a phenotypic spectrum. The aim of the study was to look for chromosomal rearrangements with a characteristic electroencephalographic pattern. Only a few disorders have peculiar electroclinical abnormalities: 1p36, 4p16, 6q terminal or trisomy 12p, Angelman syndrome, inv dup 15, 15q13.3 deletions, ring 20, Down syndrome, or Xp11.22-11.23 duplication. We also reviewed studies on epileptic seizures and typical electroencephalographic patterns described in certain chromosomal rearrangements, focusing on the quest for potential electroclinical biomarkers. The comprehensive review concludes with clinical presentations of the most common micro and macro chromosomal rearrangements, such as 17q21.31 microdeletion, 6q terminal deletion, 15q inv dup syndrome, 2q24.4 deletion, Xp11.22-11.23 duplication, 15q13.3 microdeletion, 1p36 terminal deletion, 5q14.3 microdeletion, and Xq28 duplication. The papers reviewed did not identify any specific interictal electroencephalographic patterns that were unique and significant biomarkers for a given chromosomal microrearrangement. The types of seizures described varied, with both generalized and focal seizures of various morphologies being reported. Patients with chromosomal anomalies may also meet the criteria for specific epileptic syndromes such as Infantile Epilepsy Spasms Syndrome (IESS, West syndrome): 16p13.11, 15q13.3 and 17q21.31 microdeletions, 5q inv dup. syndrome; Dravet syndrome (2q24.4 deletion), Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (15q11 duplication. 1q13.3, 5q inv dup.); or Self-Limited Epilepsy with Autonomic Features (SeLEAS, Panayiotopoulos syndrome: terminal deletion of 6q.n), Self-Limited Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes (SeLECT): fragile X syndrome. It is essential to better characterize groups of patients to more accurately define patterns of epilepsy and EEG abnormalities. This could lead to new treatment strategies. Future research is required to better understand epileptic syndromes and chromosomal rearrangements. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This paper presents EEG recording abnormalities in patients with various gene abnormalities that can cause epilepsy. The authors summarize these EEG variations based on a literature review to see if they occur frequently enough in other chromosomal abnormalities (in addition to those already known) to be a clue for further diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Paprocka
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Antonietta Coppola
- Epilepsy Centre, Neurology Department of Neurology, Reproductive and Odontostomatology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Cuccurullo
- Epilepsy Centre, Neurology Department of Neurology, Reproductive and Odontostomatology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Elżbieta Stawicka
- Clinic of Paediatric Neurology, Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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3
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Snyder HE, Jain P, RamachandranNair R, Jones KC, Whitney R. Genetic Advancements in Infantile Epileptic Spasms Syndrome and Opportunities for Precision Medicine. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:266. [PMID: 38540325 PMCID: PMC10970414 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030266] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) is a devastating developmental epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) consisting of epileptic spasms, as well as one or both of developmental regression or stagnation and hypsarrhythmia on EEG. A myriad of aetiologies are associated with the development of IESS; broadly, 60% of cases are thought to be structural, metabolic or infectious in nature, with the remainder genetic or of unknown cause. Epilepsy genetics is a growing field, and over 28 copy number variants and 70 single gene pathogenic variants related to IESS have been discovered to date. While not exhaustive, some of the most commonly reported genetic aetiologies include trisomy 21 and pathogenic variants in genes such as TSC1, TSC2, CDKL5, ARX, KCNQ2, STXBP1 and SCN2A. Understanding the genetic mechanisms of IESS may provide the opportunity to better discern IESS pathophysiology and improve treatments for this condition. This narrative review presents an overview of our current understanding of IESS genetics, with an emphasis on animal models of IESS pathogenesis, the spectrum of genetic aetiologies of IESS (i.e., chromosomal disorders, single-gene disorders, trinucleotide repeat disorders and mitochondrial disorders), as well as available genetic testing methods and their respective diagnostic yields. Future opportunities as they relate to precision medicine and epilepsy genetics in the treatment of IESS are also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E. Snyder
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada (R.R.)
| | - Puneet Jain
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E8, Canada
| | - Rajesh RamachandranNair
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada (R.R.)
| | - Kevin C. Jones
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada (R.R.)
| | - Robyn Whitney
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada (R.R.)
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Baumer NT, Hojlo MA, Pawlowski KG, Milliken AL, Lombardo AM, Sargado S, Soccorso C, Davidson EJ, Barbaresi WJ. Co-occurring conditions in Down syndrome: Findings from a clinical database. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2023; 193:e32072. [PMID: 37873945 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.32072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) experience a range of medical and neurodevelopmental conditions, necessitating systematic study of their occurrence and impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes. We describe the prevalence and relationships of medical, neurodevelopmental (ND), and mental health (MH) conditions in children with DS. We created a prospective clinical database of individuals with DS, integrated into the workflow of a specialty Down Syndrome Program at a specialty pediatric referral hospital. Conditions were collected through caregiver- and clinician report at clinical visits (N = 599). We calculated frequencies of medical, ND, and MH conditions and then assessed the relationship between medical, ND, and MH conditions using frequencies and comparative statistics. The most frequent co-occurring conditions were vision (72.5%), ear/hearing (71.0%), gastrointestinal (61.3%), respiratory (45.6%), and feeding (33.6%) problems, with variation in frequency by age. ND and MH conditions were reported in one quarter, most commonly autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Those with ND and MH conditions had greater frequency of medical conditions, with highest rates of vision, ear/hearing, and gastrointestinal issues, and CHD. Systematically collected clinical data in a large cohort of children with DS reveals high prevalence of several co-occurring medical, ND, and MH conditions. Clinical care requires an understanding of the complex relationship between medical conditions and neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole T Baumer
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Margaret A Hojlo
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine G Pawlowski
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna L Milliken
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Angela M Lombardo
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabrina Sargado
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cara Soccorso
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily J Davidson
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William J Barbaresi
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Shao LR, Gao F, Chinnasamy V, Kazuki Y, Oshimura M, Reeves RH, Stafstrom CE. Increased propensity for infantile spasms and altered neocortical excitation-inhibition balance in a mouse model of down syndrome carrying human chromosome 21. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106198. [PMID: 37315904 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with Down syndrome (DS, trisomy of chromosome 21) have an increased risk of infantile spasms (IS). As an epileptic encephalopathy, IS may further impair cognitive function and exacerbate neurodevelopmental delays already present in children with DS. To investigate the pathophysiology of IS in DS, we induced IS-like epileptic spasms in a genetic mouse model of DS that carries human chromosome 21q, TcMAC21, the animal model most closely representing gene dosage imbalance in DS. Repetitive extensor/flexor spasms were induced by the GABAB receptor agonist γ-butyrolactone (GBL) and occurred predominantly in young TcMAC21 mice (85%) but also in some euploid mice (25%). During GBL application, background electroencephalographic (EEG) amplitude was reduced, and rhythmic, sharp-and-slow wave activity or high-amplitude burst (epileptiform) events emerged in both TcMAC21 and euploid mice. Spasms occurred only during EEG bursts, but not every burst was accompanied by a spasm. Electrophysiological experiments revealed that basic membrane properties (resting membrane potential, input resistance, action-potential threshold and amplitude, rheobase, input-output relationship) of layer V pyramidal neurons were not different between TcMAC21 mice and euploid controls. However, excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) evoked at various intensities were significantly larger in TcMAC21 mice than euploid controls, while inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were similar between the two groups, resulting in an increased excitation-inhibition (E-I) ratio. These data show that behavioral spasms with epileptic EEG activity can be induced in young TcMAC21 DS mice, providing proof-of-concept evidence for increased IS susceptibility in these DS mice. Our findings also show that basic membrane properties are similar in TcMAC21 and euploid mice, while the neocortical E-I balance is altered to favor increased excitation in TcMAC21 mice, which may predispose to IS generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Rong Shao
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Viveka Chinnasamy
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yasuhiro Kazuki
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Mistuo Oshimura
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan; Trans Chromosomics, Inc., Tottori, Japan
| | - Roger H Reeves
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan; Department of Human Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl E Stafstrom
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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6
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Spinazzi NA, Santoro JD, Pawlowski K, Anzueto G, Howe YJ, Patel LR, Baumer NT. Co-occurring conditions in children with Down syndrome and autism: a retrospective study. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:9. [PMID: 36864370 PMCID: PMC9979529 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09478-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most common genetic causes of intellectual disability, and it is associated with an increased incidence of numerous co-occurring conditions. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is common in persons with DS, with rates reported as high as 39%. However, little is known regarding co-occurring conditions in children with both DS and ASD. METHODS A single-center retrospective review of prospective longitudinally collected clinical data was performed. Any patient with a confirmed diagnosis of DS evaluated at a large, specialized Down Syndrome Program in a tertiary pediatric medical center between March 2018 and March 2022 was included. A standardized survey which included demographic and clinical questions was administered during each clinical evaluation. RESULTS In total, 562 individuals with DS were included. The median age was 10 years (IQR: 6.18-13.92). Of this group, 72 (13%) had a co-occurring diagnosis of ASD (DS+ASD). Individuals with DS+ASD were more likely to be male (OR 2.23, CI 1.29-3.84) and had higher odds of a current or prior diagnosis of constipation (OR 2.19, CI 1.31-3.65), gastroesophageal reflux (OR 1.91, CI 1.14-3.21), behavioral feeding difficulties (OR 2.71, CI 1.02-7.19), infantile spasms (OR 6.03, CI 1.79-20.34) and scoliosis (OR 2.73, CI 1.16-6.40). There were lower odds of congenital heart disease in the DS+ASD group (OR 0.56, CI 0.34-0.93). There was no observed difference in prematurity or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit complications between groups. Individuals with DS+ASD had similar odds of having a history of congenital heart defect requiring surgery to those with DS only. Furthermore, there was no difference in rates of autoimmune thyroiditis or celiac disease. There was also no difference in rates of diagnosed co-occurring neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions in this cohort, including anxiety disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. CONCLUSIONS This study identifies a variety of medical conditions which are more frequent in children with DS+ASD than DS alone, providing important information for the clinical management of these patients. Future research should investigate the role of some of these medical conditions in the development of ASD phenotypes, and whether there may be distinct genetic and metabolic contributions towards these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi A Spinazzi
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, CA, 94609, USA.
| | - Jonathan D Santoro
- Division of Neuroimmunology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA.,Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Katherine Pawlowski
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gabriel Anzueto
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.,Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Yamini J Howe
- Massachusetts General Hospital Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Lina R Patel
- Department of Psychiatry, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nicole T Baumer
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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7
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Souza LDP, Bermudez BB, Bufara DC, Crippa ACDS. A Retrospective Cohort Study of Combined Therapy in West Syndrome associated with Trisomy 21. Child Neurol Open 2022; 9:2329048X221132639. [PMID: 36263394 PMCID: PMC9575436 DOI: 10.1177/2329048x221132639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: West syndrome (WS) is a frequent epileptic encephalopathy associated with Down syndrome (DS). This study evaluated an outpatient protocol for WS in patients with DS who received vigabatrin (VGB) or VGB plus adrenocorticotrophic hormone. Methods: We analyzed infants treated in two neuropediatric centers from 2001-2021. We reviewed perinatal and familial history of epilepsy, spasm onset, treatment lag, electroencephalogram, neuroimaging, progression to epilepsy, and other neurological conditions. The outcomes were electroclinical resolution (ECR), relapses, and epilepsy progression. Results: Nineteen infants were included; 57.8% were male. The average spasm onset, follow-up, and treatment lag were 6.4 months, 8.15 years, and 2.33 months, respectively. Almost 74% had ECR after protocol intervention and minor epilepsy progression. Relapses occurred during combined therapy. Conclusions: The treatment protocol, especially combined therapy, was effective for WS in DS, impacting epilepsy progression and indicating the effectiveness of combined therapy to treat WS in patients with trisomy 21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana de Paula Souza
- Paraná Federal University, Curitiba, PR, Brazil,Luciana de Paula Souza, Paraná Federal
University, Rua Quintino Bocaiuva, No. 325, Cabral 80060-900, Curitiba, Paraná,
Brazil.
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8
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Bartesaghi R. Brain circuit pathology in Down syndrome: from neurons to neural networks. Rev Neurosci 2022; 34:365-423. [PMID: 36170842 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS), a genetic pathology caused by triplication of chromosome 21, is characterized by brain hypotrophy and impairment of cognition starting from infancy. While studies in mouse models of DS have elucidated the major neuroanatomical and neurochemical defects of DS, comparatively fewer investigations have focused on the electrophysiology of the DS brain. Electrical activity is at the basis of brain functioning. Therefore, knowledge of the way in which brain circuits operate in DS is fundamental to understand the causes of behavioral impairment and devise targeted interventions. This review summarizes the state of the art regarding the electrical properties of the DS brain, starting from individual neurons and culminating in signal processing in whole neuronal networks. The reported evidence derives from mouse models of DS and from brain tissues and neurons derived from individuals with DS. EEG data recorded in individuals with DS are also provided as a key tool to understand the impact of brain circuit alterations on global brain activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Bartesaghi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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9
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Harvey S, Allen NM, King MD, Lynch B, Lynch SA, O’Regan M, O’Rourke D, Shahwan A, Webb D, Gorman KM, El Hassan M, Flynn K, Hanrahan D, Kehoe C, Leahy C, Lynch N, McHugh JC, McSweeney N, O’Mahony E, O’Mahony O, Tirupathi S. Response to treatment and outcomes of infantile spasms in Down syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:780-788. [PMID: 35092693 PMCID: PMC9303415 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM To estimate the prevalence, and evaluate presentation, treatment response, treatment side effects, and long-term seizure outcomes in all known cases of children with Down syndrome and infantile spasms on the island of Ireland. METHOD This was a 10-year retrospective multicentre review of clinical records and investigations, focusing on treatment response, side effects, and long-term outcomes. RESULTS The prevalence of infantile spasms in Down syndrome was 3.0% during the study period. Fifty-four infants were identified with median age of spasm onset at 201 days (interquartile range [IQR] 156-242). Spasm cessation was achieved in 88% (n=46) at a median of 110 days (IQR 5-66). The most common first-line medications were prednisolone (n=20, 37%), vigabatrin (n=18, 33.3%), and sodium valproate (n=9, 16.7%). At follow-up (median age 23.7mo; IQR 13.4-40.6), 25% had ongoing seizures and 85% had developmental concerns. Treatment within 60 days did not correlate with spasm cessation. Seventeen children (31%) experienced medication side effects, with vigabatrin accounting for 52%. INTERPRETATION Prednisolone is an effective and well-tolerated medication for treating infantile spasms in Down syndrome. Despite the high percentage of spasm cessation, developmental concerns and ongoing seizures were common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Harvey
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland
| | - Nicholas M. Allen
- School of MedicineNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland,Department of PaediatricsGalway University HospitalGalwayIreland
| | - Mary D. King
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland,School of Medicine and Medical ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Bryan Lynch
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland,School of Medicine and Medical ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Sally A. Lynch
- School of Medicine and Medical ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland,National Rare Disease OfficeMater Hospital DublinDublinIreland
| | - Mary O’Regan
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at CrumlinDublinIreland
| | - Declan O’Rourke
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland,School of Medicine and Medical ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland,School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Amre Shahwan
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland
| | - David Webb
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at CrumlinDublinIreland,School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Kathleen M. Gorman
- Department of Neurology and Clinical NeurophysiologyChildren’s Health Ireland at Temple StreetDublinIreland,School of Medicine and Medical ScienceUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
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10
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Demarest S, Calhoun J, Eschbach K, Yu HC, Mirsky D, Angione K, Shaikh TH, Carvill GL, Benke TA, Gunti J, Vanderveen G. Whole-exome sequencing and adrenocorticotropic hormone therapy in individuals with infantile spasms. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:633-640. [PMID: 35830182 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM To identify additional genes associated with infantile spasms using a cohort with defined infantile spasms. METHOD Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on 21 consented individuals with infantile spasms and their unaffected parents (a trio-based study). Clinical history and imaging were reviewed. Potentially deleterious exonic variants were identified and segregated. To refine potential candidates, variants were further prioritized on the basis of evidence for relevance to disease phenotype or known associations with infantile spasms, epilepsy, or neurological disease. RESULTS Likely pathogenic de novo variants were identified in NR2F1, GNB1, NEUROD2, GABRA2, and NDUFAF5. Suggestive dominant and recessive candidate variants were identified in PEMT, DYNC1I1, ASXL1, RALGAPB, and STRADA; further confirmation is required to support their relevance to disease etiology. INTERPRETATION This study supports the utility of WES in uncovering the genetic etiology in undiagnosed individuals with infantile spasms with an overall yield of five out of 21. High-priority candidates were identified in an additional five individuals. WES provides additional support for previously described disease-associated genes and expands their already broad mutational and phenotypic spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Demarest
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jeff Calhoun
- Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Krista Eschbach
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hung-Chun Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David Mirsky
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Katie Angione
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Tamim H Shaikh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gemma L Carvill
- Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tim A Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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11
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Peng P, Kessi M, Mao L, He F, Zhang C, Chen C, Pang N, Yin F, Pan Z, Peng J. Etiologic Classification of 541 Infantile Spasms Cases: A Cohort Study. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:774828. [PMID: 35330882 PMCID: PMC8940518 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.774828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the etiology of infantile spasms (IS) in a large Chinese cohort based on the United States National Infantile Spasms Consortium (NISC) classification. METHODS In the present study, we recruited IS patients diagnosed at a single center (Xiangya Hospital, Central South University) between Jan 2010 and Aug 2019. Thereafter, we collected their clinical and genetic information retrospectively. Their underlying etiologies were classified according to the NISC classification and then compared in different scenarios to understand their distribution. RESULTS A total of 541 patients with IS from 18 provinces were included in this study. The underlying etiology was identified in 53.2% of the cases: structural-acquired, 25.3%; genetic, 12.9%; genetic-structural, 7.2%; structural-congenital, 5.0%; metabolic, 2.4%; infections, 0.4% and immune, 0%. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) provided the highest diagnostic yield (26.9%). In structural-acquired IS, the proportion of hypoglycemic brain injuries was significant, second only to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. There was no patient discovered to have Down syndrome. STXBP1, CDKL5, TSC2, KCNQ2, IRF2BPL, and TSC1 were the most frequently implicated genes. Genetic causes were found to be the most common cause of IS in the early onset group, while structural-acquired etiologies were common in males and preterm babies. Patients with pre-spasm seizures were associated with a higher proportion of identified causes than those without. Non-acquired structural etiologies were more common in patients without hypsarrhythmia than in those with hypsarrhythmia. SIGNIFICANCE The most prevalent cause of IS was structural acquired followed by genetic causes. When brain MRI fails to detect the etiology, we propose WES as the next step. Structural-acquired IS and cases with genetic disorders are characteristic of the Chinese cohort, however, the etiology differs with the patient's age of onset, gestation age at birth, sex, and the presence/absence of both pre-spasm seizures, and hypsarrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Miriam Kessi
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Leilei Mao
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ciliu Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Nan Pang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Zou Pan
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
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12
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Alldred MJ, Martini AC, Patterson D, Hendrix J, Granholm AC. Aging with Down Syndrome-Where Are We Now and Where Are We Going? J Clin Med 2021; 10:4687. [PMID: 34682809 PMCID: PMC8539670 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is a form of accelerated aging, and people with DS are highly prone to aging-related conditions that include vascular and neurological disorders. Due to the overexpression of several genes on Chromosome 21, for example genes encoding amyloid precursor protein (APP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and some of the interferon receptors, those with DS exhibit significant accumulation of amyloid, phospho-tau, oxidative stress, neuronal loss, and neuroinflammation in the brain as they age. In this review, we will summarize the major strides in this research field that have been made in the last few decades, as well as discuss where we are now, and which research areas are considered essential for the field in the future. We examine the scientific history of DS bridging these milestones in research to current efforts in the field. We extrapolate on comorbidities associated with this phenotype and highlight clinical networks in the USA and Europe pursuing clinical research, concluding with funding efforts and recent recommendations to the NIH regarding DS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J. Alldred
- Nathan Kline Institute, NYU Grossman Medical School, 140 Old Orangeburg Rd, Orangeburg, NY 10962, USA;
| | - Alessandra C. Martini
- Department of Pathology and Lab. Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
| | - David Patterson
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA;
| | - James Hendrix
- LuMind IDSC Foundation, 20 Mall Road, Suite 200, Burlington, MA 01801, USA;
| | - Ann-Charlotte Granholm
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA;
- Department of Neurosurgery, CU Anschutz, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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13
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Altuna M, Giménez S, Fortea J. Epilepsy in Down Syndrome: A Highly Prevalent Comorbidity. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2776. [PMID: 34202784 PMCID: PMC8268854 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased risk for epilepsy during the whole lifespan, but especially after age 40 years. The increase in the number of individuals with DS living into late middle age due to improved health care is resulting in an increase in epilepsy prevalence in this population. However, these epileptic seizures are probably underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. This late onset epilepsy is linked to the development of symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is the main comorbidity in adults with DS with a cumulative incidence of more than 90% of adults by the seventh decade. More than 50% of patients with DS and AD dementia will most likely develop epilepsy, which in this context has a specific clinical presentation in the form of generalized myoclonic epilepsy. This epilepsy, named late onset myoclonic epilepsy (LOMEDS) affects the quality of life, might be associated with worse cognitive and functional outcomes in patients with AD dementia and has an impact on mortality. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge about the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of epileptic seizures in the DS population, with a special emphasis on LOMEDS. Raised awareness and a better understanding of epilepsy in DS from families, caregivers and clinicians could enable earlier diagnoses and better treatments for individuals with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miren Altuna
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Giménez
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit, Respiratory Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08041 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Fortea
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08041 Barcelona, Spain;
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Down Medical Center, Fundació Catalana de Síndrome de Down, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
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14
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Ghatge MS, Al Mughram M, Omar AM, Safo MK. Inborn errors in the vitamin B6 salvage enzymes associated with neonatal epileptic encephalopathy and other pathologies. Biochimie 2021; 183:18-29. [PMID: 33421502 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), the active cofactor form of vitamin B6 is required by over 160 PLP-dependent (vitamin B6) enzymes serving diverse biological roles, such as carbohydrates, amino acids, hemes, and neurotransmitters metabolism. Three key enzymes, pyridoxal kinase (PL kinase), pyridoxine 5'-phosphate oxidase (PNPO), and phosphatases metabolize and supply PLP to PLP-dependent enzymes through the salvage pathway. In born errors in the salvage enzymes are known to cause inadequate levels of PLP in the cell, particularly in neuronal cells. The resulting PLP deficiency is known to cause or implicated in several pathologies, most notably seizures. One such disorder, PNPO-dependent neonatal epileptic encephalopathy (NEE) results from natural mutations in PNPO and leads to null or reduced enzymatic activity. NEE does not respond to conventional antiepileptic drugs but may respond to treatment with the B6 vitamers PLP and/or pyridoxine (PN). In born errors that lead to PLP deficiency in cells have also been reported in PL kinase, however, to date none has been associated with epilepsy or seizure. One such pathology is polyneuropathy that responds to PLP therapy. Phosphatase deficiency or hypophosphatasia disorder due to pathogenic mutations in alkaline phosphatase is known to cause seizures that respond to PN therapy. In this article, we review the biochemical features of in born errors pertaining to the salvage enzyme's deficiency that leads to NEE and other pathologies. We also present perspective on vitamin B6 treatment for these disorders, along with attempts to develop zebrafish model to study the NEE syndrome in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini S Ghatge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA; Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery, and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Mohammed Al Mughram
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA; Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery, and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Abdelsattar M Omar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Alsulaymanyah, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, 11884, Egypt
| | - Martin K Safo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA; Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery, and Development, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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