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Lynch DR, Sharma S, Hearle P, Greeley N, Gunther K, Keita M, Strawser C, Hauser L, Park C, Schadt K, Lin KY. Characterization of clinical serum cardiac biomarker levels in individuals with Friedreich ataxia. J Neurol Sci 2024; 461:123053. [PMID: 38759249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123053] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia is a progressive autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by ataxia, dyscoordination, and cardiomyopathy. A subset of patients with Friedreich ataxia have elevated levels of serum cardiac troponin I, but associations with disease outcomes and features of cardiomyopathy remain unclear. In this study, we characterized clinically obtained serum cardiac biomarker levels including troponin I, troponin T, and B-type natriuretic peptide in subjects with Friedreich ataxia and evaluated their association with markers of disease. While unprovoked troponin I levels were elevated in 36% of the cohort, cTnI levels associated with a cardiac event (provoked) were higher than unprovoked levels. In multivariate linear regression models, younger age predicted increased troponin I values, and in logistic regression models younger age, female sex, and marginally longer GAA repeat length predicted abnormal troponin I levels. In subjects with multiple assessments, mean unprovoked troponin I levels decreased slightly over time. The presence of abnormal troponin I values and their levels were predicted by echocardiographic measures of hypertrophy. In addition, troponin I levels predicted long-term markers of clinical cardiac dysfunction over time to a modest degree. Consequently, troponin I values provide a marker of hypertrophy but only a minimally predictive biomarker for later cardiac manifestations of disease such as systolic dysfunction or arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America; Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America.
| | - Sonal Sharma
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Patrick Hearle
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel Greeley
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Katherine Gunther
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Medina Keita
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Cassandra Strawser
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Lauren Hauser
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Courtney Park
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Kimberly Schadt
- Divisions of Neurology Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
| | - Kimberly Y Lin
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America; Divisions of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
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Gunther K, Lynch DR. Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for Friedreich Ataxia: a review of the available data. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:529-539. [PMID: 38622054 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2343782] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a rare autosomal recessive disease, marked by loss of coordination as well as impaired neurological, endocrine, orthopedic, and cardiac function. There are many symptomatic medications for FRDA, and many clinical trials have been performed, but only one FDA-approved medication exists. AREAS COVERED The relative absence of the frataxin protein (FXN) in FRDA causes mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in clinical manifestations. Currently, the only approved treatment for FRDA is an Nrf2 activator called omaveloxolone (Skyclarys). Patients with FRDA also rely on various symptomatic medications for treatment. Because there is only one approved medication for FRDA, clinical trials continue to advance in FRDA. Although some trials have not met their endpoints, many current and upcoming clinical trials provide exciting possibilities for the treatment of FRDA. EXPERT OPINION The approval of omaveloxolone provides a major advance in FRDA therapeutics. Although well tolerated, it is not curative. Reversal of deficient frataxin levels with gene therapy, protein replacement, or epigenetic approaches provides the most likely prospect for enduring, disease-modifying therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Gunther
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lynch DR, Rojsajjakul T, Subramony SH, Perlman SL, Keita M, Mesaros C, Blair IA. Frataxin analysis using triple quadrupole mass spectrometry: application to a large heterogeneous clinical cohort. J Neurol 2024; 271:1844-1849. [PMID: 38063871 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12118-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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Friedreich ataxia is a progressive multisystem disorder caused by deficiency of the protein frataxin; a small mitochondrial protein involved in iron sulfur cluster synthesis. Two types of frataxin exist: FXN-M, found in most cells, and FXN-E, found almost exclusively in red blood cells. Treatments in clinical trials include frataxin restoration by gene therapy, protein replacement, and epigenetic therapies, all of which necessitate sensitive assays for assessing frataxin levels. METHODS In the present study, we have used a triple quadrupole mass spectrometry-based assay to examine the features of both types of frataxin levels in blood in a large heterogenous cohort of 106 patients with FRDA. RESULTS Frataxin levels (FXN-E and FXN M) were predicted by GAA repeat length in regression models (R2 values = 0.51 and 0.27, respectively), and conversely frataxin levels predicted clinical status as determined by modified Friedreich Ataxia Rating scale scores and by disability status (R2 values = 0.13-0.16). There was no significant change in frataxin levels in individual subjects over time, and apart from start codon mutations, FXN-E and FXN-M levels were roughly equal. Accounting for hemoglobin levels in a smaller sub-cohort improved prediction of both FXN-E and FXN-M levels from R2 values of (0.3-0.38 to 0.20-0.51). CONCLUSION The present data show that assay of FXN-M and FXN-E levels in blood provides an appropriate biofluid for assessing their repletion in particular clinical contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Penn/CHOP Friedreich Ataxia Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 502F Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4318, USA.
| | - Teerapat Rojsajjakul
- Penn/CHOP Friedreich Ataxia Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - S H Subramony
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32608, USA
| | - Susan L Perlman
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Medina Keita
- Penn/CHOP Friedreich Ataxia Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Clementina Mesaros
- Penn/CHOP Friedreich Ataxia Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ian A Blair
- Penn/CHOP Friedreich Ataxia Center of Excellence, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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Trantham SJ, Coker MA, Norman S, Crowley E, Berthy J, Byrne BJ, Subramony S, Lou X, Corti M. Perspectives of the Friedreich ataxia community on gene therapy clinical trials. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2024; 32:101179. [PMID: 38261944 PMCID: PMC10797190 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.101179] [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: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Gene therapy is a potential treatment for Friedreich ataxia, with multiple programs on the horizon. The purpose of this study was to collect opinions about gene therapy from individuals 14 years or older with Friedreich ataxia or parents/caregivers of Friedreich ataxia patients who were diagnosed as children 17 or younger. Participants were asked to complete a survey after reading brief educational materials regarding gene therapy. Most of the patients captured in this survey have an early-onset (classical) presentation of the disease. Participants expressed urgency in participating in gene therapy clinical trials despite the associated risks. About half of the respondents believed that gene therapy would cease progression or minimize symptoms, whereas nearly one-fourth expected to be cured. The survey also revealed how participants perceive their symptom burden, because a substantial majority reported that balance/walking issues most interfere with their quality of life and would be the symptom they would prioritize treating. Although not statistically significant, more caregivers prioritized treating cardiomyopathy than patients. This study provides valuable information on priorities, beliefs, and expectations regarding gene therapy and serves to guide future gene therapy opinion studies and gene therapy trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shandra J. Trantham
- Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Mackenzi A. Coker
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Samantha Norman
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Emma Crowley
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Julie Berthy
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Barry J. Byrne
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Sub Subramony
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - XiangYang Lou
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Manuela Corti
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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Lynch DR, Perlman S, Schadt K. Omaveloxolone for the treatment of Friedreich ataxia: clinical trial results and practical considerations. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:251-258. [PMID: 38269532 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2310617] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Omavaloxolone, an NRF2 activator, recently became the first drug approved specifically for the treatment of Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). This landmark achievement provides a background for a review of the detailed data leading to the approval. AREAS COVERED The authors review the data from the 4 major articles on FRDA in the context of the authors' considerable (>1000 patients) experience in treating individuals with FRDA. The data is presented in the context not only of its scientific meaning but also in the practical context of therapy in FRDA. EXPERT OPINION Omaveloxolone provides a significant advance in the treatment of FRDA that is likely to be beneficial in a majority of the FRDA population. The data suggesting a benefit is consistent, and adverse issues are relatively modest. The major remaining questions are the subgroups that are most responsive and how long the beneficial effects will remain significant in FRDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Friedrech Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kim Schadt
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lynch DR, Goldsberry A, Rummey C, Farmer J, Boesch S, Delatycki MB, Giunti P, Hoyle JC, Mariotti C, Mathews KD, Nachbauer W, Perlman S, Subramony S, Wilmot G, Zesiewicz T, Weissfeld L, Meyer C. Propensity matched comparison of omaveloxolone treatment to Friedreich ataxia natural history data. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:4-16. [PMID: 37691319 PMCID: PMC10791025 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The natural history of Friedreich ataxia is being investigated in a multi-center longitudinal study designated the Friedreich ataxia Clinical Outcome Measures Study (FACOMS). To understand the utility of this study in analysis of clinical trials, we performed a propensity-matched comparison of data from the open-label MOXIe extension (omaveloxolone) to that from FACOMS. METHODS MOXIe extension patients were matched to FACOMS patients using logistic regression to estimate propensity scores based on multiple covariates: sex, baseline age, age of onset, baseline modified Friedreich Ataxia Rating scale (mFARS) score, and baseline gait score. The change from baseline in mFARS at Year 3 for the MOXIe extension patients compared to the matched FACOMS patients was analyzed as the primary efficacy endpoint using mixed model repeated measures analysis. RESULTS Data from the MOXIe extension show that omaveloxolone provided persistent benefit over 3 years when compared to an untreated, matched cohort from FACOMS. At each year, in all analysis populations, patients in the MOXIe extension experienced a smaller change from baseline in mFARS score than matched FACOMS patients. In the primary pooled population (136 patients in each group) by Year 3, patients in the FACOMS matched set progressed 6.6 points whereas patients treated with omaveloxolone in MOXIe extension progressed 3 points (difference = -3.6; nominal p value = 0.0001). INTERPRETATION These results suggest a meaningful slowing of Friedreich ataxia progression with omaveloxolone, and consequently detail how propensity-matched analysis may contribute to understanding of effects of therapeutic agents. This demonstrates the direct value of natural history studies in clinical trial evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R. Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and NeurologyThe Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | | | - Jennifer Farmer
- Friedreich Ataxia Research AllianceDowningtownPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Department of NeurologyMedical University InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Martin B. Delatycki
- Victorian Clinical Genetics ServicesMurdoch Children's Research InstituteParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Paola Giunti
- University College London HospitalBloomsburyLondonUK
| | - J. Chad Hoyle
- Department of NeurologyOhio State University College of MedicineColumbusOhioUSA
| | | | - Katherine D. Mathews
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | | | - Susan Perlman
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - S.H. Subramony
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain InstituteUniversity of Florida Health SystemGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - George Wilmot
- Department of NeurologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of South Florida Ataxia Research CenterTampaFloridaUSA
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Porcu L, Fichera M, Nanetti L, Rulli E, Giunti P, Parkinson MH, Durr A, Ewenczyk C, Boesch S, Nachbauer W, Indelicato E, Klopstock T, Stendel C, Rodríguez de Rivera FJ, Schöls L, Fleszar Z, Giordano I, Didszun C, Castaldo A, Rai M, Klockgether T, Pandolfo M, Schulz JB, Reetz K, Mariotti C. Longitudinal changes of SARA scale in Friedreich ataxia: Strong influence of baseline score and age at onset. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:2000-2012. [PMID: 37641437 PMCID: PMC10647003 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) is widely used in different types of ataxias and has been chosen as the primary outcome measure in the European natural history study for Friedreich ataxia (FA). METHODS To assess distribution and longitudinal changes of SARA scores and its single items, we analyzed SARA scores of 502 patients with typical-onset FA (<25 years) participating in the 4-year prospective European FA Consortium for Translational Studies (EFACTS). Pattern of disease progression was determined using linear mixed-effects regression models. The chosen statistical model was re-fitted in order to estimate parameters and predict disease progression. Median time-to-change and rate of score progression were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and weighted linear regression models, respectively. RESULTS SARA score at study enrollment and age at onset were the major predictive factors of total score progression during the 4-year follow-up. To a less extent, age at evaluation also influenced the speed of SARA progression, while disease duration did not improve the prediction of the statistical model. Temporal dynamics of total SARA and items showed a great variability in the speed of score increase during disease progression. Gait item had the highest annual progression rate, with median time for one-point score increase of 1 to 2 years. INTERPRETATION Analyses of statistical properties of SARA suggest a variable sensitivity of the scale at different disease stages, and provide important information for population selection and result interpretation in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Porcu
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Mario Fichera
- Unit of Medical Genetics and NeurogeneticsFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilan20133Italy
| | - Lorenzo Nanetti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and NeurogeneticsFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilan20133Italy
| | - Eliana Rulli
- Laboratory of Methodology for Clinical Research, Oncology DepartmentIstituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCSMilanItaly
| | - Paola Giunti
- Department of Clinical and Movement NeurosciencesAtaxia Centre, UCL‐Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonWC1N 3BGUK
| | - Michael H. Parkinson
- Department of Clinical and Movement NeurosciencesAtaxia Centre, UCL‐Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonWC1N 3BGUK
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute (ICM Institut du Cerveau), AP‐HP, INSERM, CNRSUniversity Hospital Pitié‐SalpêtrièreParis75646France
| | - Claire Ewenczyk
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute (ICM Institut du Cerveau), AP‐HP, INSERM, CNRSUniversity Hospital Pitié‐SalpêtrièreParis75646France
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Department of NeurologyMedical University InnsbruckInnsbruck6020Austria
| | | | | | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of NeurologyFriedrich Baur Institute, University Hospital, LMUMunich80336Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)Munich81377Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy)Munich81377Germany
| | - Claudia Stendel
- Department of NeurologyFriedrich Baur Institute, University Hospital, LMUMunich80336Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)Munich81377Germany
| | | | - Ludger Schöls
- Department of Neurology and Hertie‐Institute for Clinical Brain ResearchUniversity of TübingenTübingen72076Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)Tübingen72076Germany
| | - Zofia Fleszar
- Department of Neurology and Hertie‐Institute for Clinical Brain ResearchUniversity of TübingenTübingen72076Germany
| | - Ilaria Giordano
- Department of NeurologyUniversity Hospital of BonnBonn53127Germany
| | - Claire Didszun
- Department of NeurologyRWTH Aachen UniversityAachen52074Germany
| | - Anna Castaldo
- Unit of Medical Genetics and NeurogeneticsFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilan20133Italy
| | - Myriam Rai
- Laboratory of Experimental NeurologyUniversité Libre de BruxellesBrussels1070Belgium
| | - Thomas Klockgether
- Department of NeurologyUniversity Hospital of BonnBonn53127Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)Bonn53127Germany
| | - Massimo Pandolfo
- Laboratory of Experimental NeurologyUniversité Libre de BruxellesBrussels1070Belgium
- Department of Neurology and NeurosurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealQCH3A 0G4Canada
| | - Jörg B. Schulz
- Department of NeurologyRWTH Aachen UniversityAachen52074Germany
- JARA Brain Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Research Centre Jülich and RWTH Aachen UniversityAachen52056Germany
| | - Kathrin Reetz
- Department of NeurologyRWTH Aachen UniversityAachen52074Germany
- JARA Brain Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Research Centre Jülich and RWTH Aachen UniversityAachen52056Germany
| | - Caterina Mariotti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and NeurogeneticsFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilan20133Italy
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Rodden LN, McIntyre K, Keita M, Wells M, Park C, Profeta V, Waldman A, Rummey C, Balcer LJ, Lynch DR. Retinal hypoplasia and degeneration result in vision loss in Friedreich ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:1397-1406. [PMID: 37334854 PMCID: PMC10424660 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is an inherited condition caused by a GAA triplet repeat (GAA-TR) expansion in the FXN gene. Clinical features of FRDA include ataxia, cardiomyopathy, and in some, vision loss. In this study, we characterize features of vision loss in a large cohort of adults and children with FRDA. METHODS Using optical coherence tomography (OCT), we measured peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in 198 people with FRDA, and 77 controls. Sloan letter charts were used to determine visual acuity. RNFL thickness and visual acuity were compared to measures of disease severity obtained from the Friedreich Ataxia Clinical Outcomes Measures Study (FACOMS). RESULTS The majority of patients, including children, had pathologically thin RNFLs (mean = 73 ± 13 μm in FRDA; 98 ± 9 μm in controls) and low-contrast vision deficits early in the disease course. Variability in RNFL thickness in FRDA (range: 36 to 107 μm) was best predicted by disease burden (GAA-TR length X disease duration). Significant deficits in high-contrast visual acuity were apparent in patients with an RNFL thickness of ≤68 μm. RNFL thickness decreased at a rate of -1.2 ± 1.4 μm/year and reached 68 μm at a disease burden of approximately 12,000 GAA years, equivalent to disease duration of 17 years for participants with 700 GAAs. INTERPRETATION These data suggest that both hypoplasia and subsequent degeneration of the RNFL may be responsible for the optic nerve dysfunction in FRDA and support the development of a vision-directed treatment for selected patients early in the disease to prevent RNFL loss from reaching the critical threshold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layne N. Rodden
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kellie McIntyre
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Medina Keita
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Mckenzie Wells
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Courtney Park
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Victoria Profeta
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Amy Waldman
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Laura J. Balcer
- Departments of Neurology, Population Health and OphthalmologyNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - David R. Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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Tiberi J, Segatto M, Fiorenza MT, La Rosa P. Apparent Opportunities and Hidden Pitfalls: The Conflicting Results of Restoring NRF2-Regulated Redox Metabolism in Friedreich's Ataxia Pre-Clinical Models and Clinical Trials. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051293. [PMID: 37238963 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal, recessive, inherited neurodegenerative disease caused by the loss of activity of the mitochondrial protein frataxin (FXN), which primarily affects dorsal root ganglia, cerebellum, and spinal cord neurons. The genetic defect consists of the trinucleotide GAA expansion in the first intron of FXN gene, which impedes its transcription. The resulting FXN deficiency perturbs iron homeostasis and metabolism, determining mitochondrial dysfunctions and leading to reduced ATP production, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and lipid peroxidation. These alterations are exacerbated by the defective functionality of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a transcription factor acting as a key mediator of the cellular redox signalling and antioxidant response. Because oxidative stress represents a major pathophysiological contributor to FRDA onset and progression, a great effort has been dedicated to the attempt to restore the NRF2 signalling axis. Despite this, the beneficial effects of antioxidant therapies in clinical trials only partly reflect the promising results obtained in preclinical studies conducted in cell cultures and animal models. For these reasons, in this critical review, we overview the outcomes obtained with the administration of various antioxidant compounds and critically analyse the aspects that may have contributed to the conflicting results of preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Tiberi
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Behavioral Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Bioscience and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Fiorenza
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Rodden LN, Rummey C, Kessler S, Wilson RB, Lynch DR. A Novel Metric for Predicting Severity of Disease Features in Friedreich's Ataxia. Mov Disord 2023. [PMID: 36928898 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), most commonly caused by a GAA triplet repeat (GAA-TR) expansion in intron 1 of the FXN gene, is characterized by deficiency of frataxin protein and clinical features such as progressive ataxia, dysarthria, impaired proprioception and vibration, abolished deep tendon reflexes, Babinski sign, and vision loss in association with non-neurological features such as skeletal anomalies, hearing loss, cardiomyopathy, and diabetes. Pathogenic GAA-TRs range in size from 60 to 1500 triplets and negatively correlate with age of onset. Clinical severity is predicted by a combination of GAA-TR length and disease duration (DD) via multivariable regressions, which cannot typically be used for the small sample sizes in most studies on this rare disease. OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop a single metric, which we call "disease burden" (DB), that encompasses both GAA-TR length and DD for predicting disease features of FRDA in small sample sizes. METHODS Linear regression and multivariable regression analysis was used to determine correlation coefficients between different disease features of FRDA. RESULTS Using large datasets for validation, we found that DB predicts measures of neurological dysfunction in FRDA better than GAA-TR length or DD. Analogous results were found using small datasets. CONCLUSIONS FRDA DB is a novel metric of disease severity that has utility in small datasets to demonstrate correlations that would not otherwise be evident with either GAA-TR or DD alone. This is important for discovering new biomarkers, as well as improving the prediction of severity of disease features in FRDA. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layne N Rodden
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Sudha Kessler
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert B Wilson
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Lynch DR, Mathews KD, Perlman S, Zesiewicz T, Subramony S, Omidvar O, Vogel AP, Krtolica A, Litterman N, van der Ploeg L, Heerinckx F, Milner P, Midei M. Double blind trial of a deuterated form of linoleic acid (RT001) in Friedreich ataxia. J Neurol 2023; 270:1615-1623. [PMID: 36462055 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11501-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Friedreich ataxia is (FRDA) an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder associated with intrinsic oxidative damage, suggesting that decreasing lipid peroxidation (LPO) might ameliorate disease progression. The present study tested the ability of RT001, a deuterated form of linoleic acid (D2-LA), to alter disease severity in patients with FRDA in a double-blind placebo-controlled trial. METHODS Sixty-five subjects were recruited across six sites and received either placebo or active drug for an 11-month study. Subjects were evaluated at 0, 4, 9, and 11 months, with the primary outcome measure being maximum oxygen consumption (MVO2) during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). A key secondary outcome measure was a composite statistical test using results from the timed 1-min walk (T1MW), peak workload, and MVO2. RESULTS Forty-five subjects completed the protocol. RT001 was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events related to drug. Plasma and red blood cell (RBC) membrane levels of D2-LA and its primary metabolite deuterated arachidonic acid (D2-AA) achieved steady-state concentrations by 4 months. No significant changes in MVO2 were observed for RT001 compared to placebo. Similarly, no differences between the groups were found in secondary or exploratory outcome measures. Post hoc evaluations also suggested minimal effects of RT001 at the dosages used in this study. INTERPRETATIONS The results of this study provide no evidence for a significant benefit of RT001 at the dosages tested in this Friedreich ataxia patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA. .,Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502F Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Katherine D Mathews
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, USA
| | - Susan Perlman
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- USF Ataxia Research Center, University of South Florida, James A. Haley Veteran's Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sub Subramony
- Norman Fixel Center for Neurological Disorders, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, USA
| | - Omid Omidvar
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Adam P Vogel
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Redenlab Inc, Melbourne, Australia
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12
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Mohammadi-Ghazi R, Nguyen H, Mishra RK, Enriquez A, Najafi B, Stephen CD, Gupta AS, Schmahmann JD, Vaziri A. Objective Assessment of Upper-Extremity Motor Functions in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Using Wearable Sensors. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:7993. [PMID: 36298343 PMCID: PMC9609238 DOI: 10.3390/s22207993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The study presents a novel approach to objectively assessing the upper-extremity motor symptoms in spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) using data collected via a wearable sensor worn on the patient's wrist during upper-extremity tasks associated with the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). First, we developed an algorithm for detecting/extracting the cycles of the finger-to-nose test (FNT). We extracted multiple features from the detected cycles and identified features and parameters correlated with the SARA scores. Additionally, we developed models to predict the severity of symptoms based on the FNT. The proposed technique was validated on a dataset comprising the seventeen (n = 17) participants' assessments. The cycle detection technique showed an accuracy of 97.6% in a Bland-Altman analysis and a 94% accuracy (F1-score of 0.93) in predicting the severity of the FNT. Furthermore, the dependency of the upper-extremity tests was investigated through statistical analysis, and the results confirm dependency and potential redundancies in the upper-extremity SARA assessments. Our findings pave the way to enhance the utility of objective measures of SCA assessments. The proposed wearable-based platform has the potential to eliminate subjectivity and inter-rater variabilities in assessing ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hung Nguyen
- BioSensics LLC, 57 Chapel St, Newton, MA 02458, USA
| | | | - Ana Enriquez
- BioSensics LLC, 57 Chapel St, Newton, MA 02458, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Christopher D. Stephen
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anoopum S. Gupta
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Schmahmann
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Rodden LN, Rummey C, Dong YN, Lagedrost S, Regner S, Brocht A, Bushara K, Delatycki MB, Gomez CM, Mathews K, Murray S, Perlman S, Ravina B, Subramony SH, Wilmot G, Zesiewicz T, Bolotta A, Domissy A, Jespersen C, Ji B, Soragni E, Gottesfeld JM, Lynch DR. A non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism in SIRT6 predicts neurological severity in Friedreich ataxia. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:933788. [PMID: 36133907 PMCID: PMC9483148 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.933788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a recessive neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive ataxia, dyscoordination, and loss of vision. The variable length of the pathogenic GAA triplet repeat expansion in the FXN gene in part explains the interindividual variability in the severity of disease. The GAA repeat expansion leads to epigenetic silencing of FXN; therefore, variability in properties of epigenetic effector proteins could also regulate the severity of FRDA. Methods: In an exploratory analysis, DNA from 88 individuals with FRDA was analyzed to determine if any of five non-synonymous SNPs in HDACs/SIRTs predicted FRDA disease severity. Results suggested the need for a full analysis at the rs352493 locus in SIRT6 (p.Asn46Ser). In a cohort of 569 subjects with FRDA, disease features were compared between subjects homozygous for the common thymine SIRT6 variant (TT) and those with the less common cytosine variant on one allele and thymine on the other (CT). The biochemical properties of both variants of SIRT6 were analyzed and compared. Results: Linear regression in the exploratory cohort suggested that an SNP (rs352493) in SIRT6 correlated with neurological severity in FRDA. The follow-up analysis in a larger cohort agreed with the initial result that the genotype of SIRT6 at the locus rs352493 predicted the severity of disease features of FRDA. Those in the CT SIRT6 group performed better on measures of neurological and visual function over time than those in the more common TT SIRT6 group. The Asn to Ser amino acid change resulting from the SNP in SIRT6 did not alter the expression or enzymatic activity of SIRT6 or frataxin, but iPSC-derived neurons from people with FRDA in the CT SIRT6 group showed whole transcriptome differences compared to those in the TT SIRT6 group. Conclusion: People with FRDA in the CT SIRT6 group have less severe neurological and visual dysfunction than those in the TT SIRT6 group. Biochemical analyses indicate that the benefit conferred by T to C SNP in SIRT6 does not come from altered expression or enzymatic activity of SIRT6 or frataxin but is associated with changes in the transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layne N. Rodden
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Yi Na Dong
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarah Lagedrost
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sean Regner
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alicia Brocht
- University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - Martin B. Delatycki
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Katherine Mathews
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Sarah Murray
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - S. H. Subramony
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - George Wilmot
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | | | - Alain Domissy
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | | | - Baohu Ji
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | | | | | - David R. Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: David R. Lynch,
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14
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Rodden LN, Rummey C, Dong YN, Lynch DR. Clinical Evidence for Variegated Silencing in Patients With Friedreich Ataxia. Neurol Genet 2022; 8:e683. [PMID: 35620135 PMCID: PMC9128033 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a GAA triplet repeat (GAA-TR) expansion in intron 1 of the FXN gene. Patients have 100-1,300 GAA triplets compared with less than 30 in healthy controls. The GAA-TR expansion leads to FXN silencing, and consequent frataxin protein deficiency results in progressive ataxia, scoliosis, cardiomyopathy, and diabetes. The overt heterogeneity in age at onset and disease severity is explained partly by the length of the GAA-TR, in which shorter repeats correlate with milder disease. Evidence of variegated silencing in FRDA suggests that patients with shorter repeats retain a significant proportion of cells with FXN genes that have escaped GAA-TR expansion-induced silencing, explaining the less severe frataxin deficiency in this subpopulation. In ex vivo experiments, the proportion of spared cells negatively correlates with GAA-TR length until it plateaus at 500 triplets, an indication that the maximal number of silenced cells has been reached. In this study, we assessed whether an analogous ceiling effect occurs in severity of clinical features of FRDA by analyzing clinical outcome data. Methods The FRDA Clinical Outcome Measures Study database was used for a cross-sectional analysis of 1,000 patients with FRDA. Frataxin levels were determined by lateral flow immunoassays. Results The length of the GAA-TR in our cohort predicted frataxin level (R2 = 0.38, p < 0.0001) and age at onset (R2 = 0.46, p < 0.0001) but only with GAA-TRs with ≤700 triplets. Age and disease duration predicted performance on clinical outcome measures, and such predictions in linear regression models statistically improved in the subcohort of patients with >700 GAA triplets. The prevalence of cardiomyopathy and scoliosis increased as GAA-TR length increased up to 700 GAA triplets where prevalence plateaued. Discussion Our data suggest that there is a ceiling effect on the clinical consequences of GAA-TR length in FRDA, as would be predicted by variegated silencing. Patients with GAA-TRs of >700 triplets represent a subgroup in which the severity of clinical manifestations based on GAA-TR length have reached maximal levels and therefore display limited clinical variability in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layne N. Rodden
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology (L.N.R., Y.N.D., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Rummey
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology (L.N.R., Y.N.D., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yi Na Dong
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology (L.N.R., Y.N.D., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - David R. Lynch
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology (L.N.R., Y.N.D., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; and Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland
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15
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Bedewy AAE. Anaesthesia for a patient with Friedreich’s ataxia undergoing emergency tibia interlocking nail insertion. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF ANAESTHESIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/11101849.2022.2082789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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16
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Chirino-Pérez A, Vaca-Palomares I, Torres DL, Hernandez-Castillo CR, Diaz R, Ramirez-Garcia G, Fernandez-Ruiz J. Cognitive Impairments in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 10 and Their Relation to Cortical Thickness. Mov Disord 2021; 36:2910-2921. [PMID: 34327752 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of an ATTCT pentanucleotide repeat. Its clinical features include ataxia and, in some cases, epileptic seizures. There is, however, a dearth of information about its cognitive deficits and the neural bases underpinning them. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to characterize the performance of spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 patients in 2 cognitive domains typically affected in spinocerebellar ataxias, memory and executive function, and to correlate the identified cognitive impairments with ataxia severity and cerebral/cerebellar cortical thickness, as quantified by MRI. METHODS Memory and executive function tests were administered to 17 genetically confirmed Mexican spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 patients, and their results were compared with 17 healthy matched volunteers. MRI was performed in 16 patients. RESULTS Patients showed deficits in visual and visuospatial short-term memory, reduced storage capacity for verbal memory, and impaired monitoring, planning, and cognitive flexibility, which were ataxia independent. Patients with seizures (n = 9) and without seizures (n = 8) did not differ significantly in cognitive performance. There were significant correlations between short-term visuospatial memory impairment and posterior cerebellar lobe cortical thickness (bilateral lobule VI, IX, and right X). Cognitive flexibility deficiencies correlated with cerebral cortical thickness in the left middle frontal, cingulate, opercular, and temporal gyri. Cerebellar cortical thickness in several bilateral regions was correlated with motor impairment. CONCLUSIONS Patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 show significant memory and executive dysfunction that can be correlated with deterioration in the posterior lobe of the cerebellum and prefrontal, cingulate, and middle temporal cortices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Chirino-Pérez
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Israel Vaca-Palomares
- Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diana L Torres
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Rosalinda Diaz
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Ramirez-Garcia
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juan Fernandez-Ruiz
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.,Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz, Mexico
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17
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Correlation of Visual Quality of Life With Clinical and Visual Status in Friedreich Ataxia. J Neuroophthalmol 2021; 40:213-217. [PMID: 31977662 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000000878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary objective was to determine the association of patient-reported vision-specific quality of life to disease status and visual function in patients with Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA). METHODS Patients with FRDA were assessed with the 25-Item National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) along with measures of disease status (ataxia stage) and visual function (low- and high-contrast letter acuity scores). The relations of NEI-VFQ-25 scores to those for disease status and visual function were examined. RESULTS Scores for the NEI-VFQ-25 were lower in patients with FRDA (n = 99) compared with published disease-free controls, particularly reduced in a subgroup of FRDA patients with features of early onset, older age, and abnormal visual function. CONCLUSIONS The NEI-VFQ-25 captures the subjective component of visual function in patients with FRDA.
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Chirino-Pérez A, Marrufo-Meléndez OR, Muñoz-López JI, Hernandez-Castillo CR, Ramirez-Garcia G, Díaz R, Nuñez-Orozco L, Fernandez-Ruiz J. Mapping the Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome in Patients with Chronic Cerebellar Strokes. THE CEREBELLUM 2021; 21:208-218. [PMID: 34109552 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01290-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome (CCAS) has been consistently described in patients with acute/subacute cerebellar injuries. However, studies with chronic patients have had controversial findings that have not been explored with new cerebellar-target tests, such as the CCAS scale (CCAS-S). The objective of this research is to prove and contrast the usefulness of the CCAS-S and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test to evaluate cognitive/affective impairments in patients with chronic acquired cerebellar lesions, and to map the cerebellar areas whose lesions correlated with dysfunctions in these tests. CCAS-S and MoCA were administrated to 22 patients with isolated chronic cerebellar strokes and a matched comparison group. The neural bases underpinning both tests were explored with multivariate lesion-symptom mapping (LSM) methods. MoCA and CCAS-S had an adequate test performance with efficient discrimination between patients and healthy volunteers. However, only impairments determined by the CCAS-S resulted in significant regional localization within the cerebellum. Specifically, patients with chronic cerebellar lesions in right-lateralized posterolateral regions manifested cognitive impairments inherent to CCAS. These findings concurred with the anterior-sensorimotor/posterior-cognitive dichotomy in the human cerebellum and revealed clinically intra- and cross-lobular significant regions (portions of right lobule VI, VII, Crus I-II) for verbal tasks that overlap with the "language" functional boundaries in the cerebellum. Our findings prove the usefulness of MoCA and CCAS-S to reveal cognitive impairments in patients with chronic acquired cerebellar lesions. This study extends the understanding of long-term CCAS and introduces multivariate LSM methods to identify clinically intra- and cross-lobular significant regions underpinning chronic CCAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Chirino-Pérez
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Physiology Department, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 04510, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Oscar René Marrufo-Meléndez
- Neuroimaging Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suárez", 14269, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - José Ignacio Muñoz-López
- Neuroimaging Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suárez", 14269, Mexico city, Mexico
| | | | - Gabriel Ramirez-Garcia
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Physiology Department, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 04510, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Rosalinda Díaz
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Physiology Department, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 04510, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Lilia Nuñez-Orozco
- Neurology Service, National Medical Center 20 de Noviembre, Institute of Social Security and Services for State Workers, 03229, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Juan Fernandez-Ruiz
- Neuropsychology Laboratory, Physiology Department, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, 04510, Mexico city, Mexico. .,School of Psychology, Universidad Veracruzana, 91097, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
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Wang H, Norton J, Xu L, DeMartinis N, Sen R, Shah A, Farmer J, Lynch D. Results of a randomized double-blind study evaluating luvadaxistat in adults with Friedreich ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:1343-1352. [PMID: 34018342 PMCID: PMC8164851 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a rare disorder with progressive neurodegeneration and cardiomyopathy. Luvadaxistat (also known as TAK-831; NBI-1065844), an inhibitor of the enzyme d-amino acid oxidase, has demonstrated beneficial effects in preclinical models relevant to FRDA. This phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm study evaluated the efficacy and safety of oral luvadaxistat in adults with FRDA. METHODS Adult patients with FRDA were randomized 2:1:2 to placebo, luvadaxistat 75 mg twice daily (BID), or luvadaxistat 300 mg BID for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint changed from baseline at week 12 on the inverse of the time to complete the nine-hole peg test (9-HPT-1 ), a performance-based measure of the function of the upper extremities and manual dexterity. Comparisons between luvadaxistat and placebo were made using a mixed model for repeated measures. RESULTS Of 67 randomized patients, 63 (94%) completed the study. For the primary endpoint, there was no statistically significant difference in change from baseline on the 9-HPT-1 (seconds-1 ) at week 12 between placebo (0.00029) and luvadaxistat 75 mg BID (-0.00031) or luvadaxistat 300 mg BID (-0.00059); least squares mean differences versus placebo (standard error) were -0.00054 (0.000746) for the 75 mg dose and -0.00069 (0.000616) for the 300 mg dose. Luvadaxistat was safe and well tolerated; the majority of reported adverse events were mild in intensity. INTERPRETATION Luvadaxistat was safe and well tolerated in this cohort of adults with FRDA; however, it did not demonstrate efficacy as a treatment for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan Norton
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lin Xu
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Rohini Sen
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ankit Shah
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer Farmer
- Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), Downingtown, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - David Lynch
- Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), Downingtown, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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20
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Rummey C, Flynn JM, Corben LA, Delatycki MB, Wilmot G, Subramony SH, Bushara K, Duquette A, Gomez CM, Hoyle JC, Roxburgh R, Seeberger L, Yoon G, Mathews KD, Zesiewicz T, Perlman S, Lynch DR. Scoliosis in Friedreich's ataxia: longitudinal characterization in a large heterogeneous cohort. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:1239-1250. [PMID: 33949801 PMCID: PMC8164850 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to characterize the incidence and progression of scoliosis in the natural history of Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) and document the factors leading to the requirement for corrective surgery. METHODS Data on the prevalence of scoliosis and scoliosis surgery from up to 17 years of follow-up collected during a large natural history study in FRDA (1116 patients at 4928 visits) were summarized descriptively and subjected to time to event analyses. RESULTS Well over 90% of early or typical FRDA patients (as determined by age of onset) developed intermediate to severe scoliosis, while patients with a later onset (>14 years) had no or much lower prevalence of scoliosis. Diagnosis of scoliosis occurs during the onset of ataxia and in rare cases even prior to that. Major progression follows throughout the growth phase and puberty, leading to the need for surgical intervention in more than 50% of individuals in the most severe subgroup. The youngest patients appear to delay surgery until the end of the growth period, leading to further progression before surgical intervention. Age of onset of FRDA before or after reaching 15 years sharply separated severe and relatively mild incidence and progression of scoliosis. INTERPRETATION Scoliosis is an important comorbidity of FRDA. Our comprehensive documentation of scoliosis progression in this natural history study provides a baseline for comparison as novel treatments become available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John M Flynn
- Division of Orthopedics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Louise A Corben
- Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Sub H Subramony
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | | | - Antoine Duquette
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Grace Yoon
- Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Susan Perlman
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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21
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Selvadurai LP, Georgiou-Karistianis N, Shishegar R, Sheridan C, Egan GF, Delatycki MB, Harding IH, Corben LA. Longitudinal structural brain changes in Friedreich ataxia depend on disease severity: the IMAGE-FRDA study. J Neurol 2021; 268:4178-4189. [PMID: 33860369 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10512-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Friedreich ataxia is an inherited neurodegenerative disease, with cerebral and cerebellar pathology evident. Despite an increased understanding of its neuropathology, disease progression in this disease remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterise longitudinal change in brain structure using a multi-modal approach across cerebral and cerebellar grey and white matter. METHODS T1-weighted, diffusion-tensor, and magnetisation transfer magnetic resonance images were obtained from 28 individuals with Friedreich ataxia and 29 age- and gender-matched controls at two time-points, 2 years apart. Region-of-interest and exploratory between-group comparisons assessed changes in brain macrostructure (cerebellar lobule volume, cerebral cortical thickness/gyrification, brain white matter volume) and microstructure (white matter fractional anisotropy, mean/axial/radial diffusivity, magnetisation transfer ratio). Rates of change were correlated against change in neurological severity, Time 1 severity, and onset age. RESULTS Individuals with Friedreich ataxia had a greater rate of white matter volume loss than controls in the superior cerebellar peduncles and right peri-thalamic/posterior cerebral regions, and greater reduction in left primary motor cortex gyrification. Greater cerebellar/brainstem white matter volume loss and right dorsal premotor gyrification loss was observed amongst individuals with less severe neurological symptoms at Time 1. Conversely, cerebral atrophy and changes in axial diffusivity were observed in individuals with more severe Time 1 symptoms. Progression in radial diffusivity was more pronounced amongst individuals with earlier disease onset. Greater right ventral premotor gyrification loss correlated with greater neurological progression. CONCLUSION Heterogeneity in Friedreich ataxia progression is observed at the neurobiological level, with evidence of earlier cerebellar and later cerebral degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa P Selvadurai
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Nellie Georgiou-Karistianis
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Rosita Shishegar
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,The Australian E-Health Research Centre, CSIRO, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Cathlin Sheridan
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Gary F Egan
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, Australia
| | - Ian H Harding
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Louise A Corben
- School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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22
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Oubre B, Daneault JF, Whritenour K, Khan NC, Stephen CD, Schmahmann JD, Lee SI, Gupta AS. Decomposition of Reaching Movements Enables Detection and Measurement of Ataxia. THE CEREBELLUM 2021; 20:811-822. [PMID: 33651372 PMCID: PMC8674173 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01247-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Technologies that enable frequent, objective, and precise measurement of ataxia severity would benefit clinical trials by lowering participation barriers and improving the ability to measure disease state and change. We hypothesized that analyzing characteristics of sub-second movement profiles obtained during a reaching task would be useful for objectively quantifying motor characteristics of ataxia. Participants with ataxia (N=88), participants with parkinsonism (N=44), and healthy controls (N=34) performed a computer tablet version of the finger-to-nose test while wearing inertial sensors on their wrists. Data features designed to capture signs of ataxia were extracted from participants' decomposed wrist velocity time-series. A machine learning regression model was trained to estimate overall ataxia severity, as measured by the Brief Ataxia Rating Scale (BARS). Classification models were trained to distinguish between ataxia participants and controls and between ataxia and parkinsonism phenotypes. Movement decomposition revealed expected and novel characteristics of the ataxia phenotype. The distance, speed, duration, morphology, and temporal relationships of decomposed movements exhibited strong relationships with disease severity. The regression model estimated BARS with a root mean square error of 3.6 points, r2 = 0.69, and moderate-to-excellent reliability. Classification models distinguished between ataxia participants and controls and ataxia and parkinsonism phenotypes with areas under the receiver-operating curve of 0.96 and 0.89, respectively. Movement decomposition captures core features of ataxia and may be useful for objective, precise, and frequent assessment of ataxia in home and clinic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Oubre
- College of Information and Computer Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 140 Governors Dr, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Jean-Francois Daneault
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, Rutgers University, 65 Bergen St, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Kallie Whritenour
- College of Information and Computer Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 140 Governors Dr, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Nergis C Khan
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher D Stephen
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA.,Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA.,Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeremy D Schmahmann
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA.,Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sunghoon Ivan Lee
- College of Information and Computer Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 140 Governors Dr, Amherst, MA, USA.
| | - Anoopum S Gupta
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA. .,Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA. .,Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA, USA.
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23
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Contreras A, Ramirez-Garcia G, Chirino A, Morgado-Valle C, Pasaye EH, Hernandez-Castillo C, Díaz R, Fernandez-Ruiz J, Beltran-Parrazal L. Longitudinal Analysis of the Relation Between Clinical Impairment and Gray Matter Degeneration in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7 Patients. THE CEREBELLUM 2020; 20:346-360. [PMID: 33184781 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-020-01205-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive ataxia and retinal degeneration. Previous cross-sectional studies show a significant decrease in the gray matter of the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem. However, there are no longitudinal studies in SCA7 analyzing whole-brain degeneration and its relation to clinical decline. To perform a 2-year longitudinal characterization of the whole-brain degeneration and clinical decline in SCA7, twenty patients underwent MRI and clinical evaluations at baseline. Fourteen completed the 2-year follow-up study. A healthy-matched control group was also included. Imaging analyses included volumetric and cortical thickness evaluation. We measured the cognitive deterioration in SCA7 patients using MoCA test and the motor deterioration using the SARA score. We found statistically significant differences in the follow-up compared to baseline. Imaging analyses showed that SCA7 patients had severe cerebellar and pontine degeneration compared with the control group. Longitudinal follow-up imaging analyses of SCA7 patients showed the largest atrophy in the medial temporal lobe without signs of a progression of cerebellar and pontine atrophy. Effect size analyses showed that MRI longitudinal analysis has the largest effect size followed by the SARA scale and MoCA test. Here, we report that it is possible to detect significant brain atrophy and motor and cognitive clinical decline in a 2-year follow-up study of SCA7 patients. Our results support the hypothesis that longitudinal analysis of structural MRI and MOCA tests are plausible clinical markers to study the natural history of the disease and to design treatment trials in ecologically valid contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Contreras
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Berlin 7, Fracc. Monte Magno, C.P. 91193, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Ramirez-Garcia
- Unidad Periférica de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía "Manuel Velasco Suárez", Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Amanda Chirino
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicología, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Consuelo Morgado-Valle
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Berlin 7, Fracc. Monte Magno, C.P. 91193, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Erick H Pasaye
- Magnetic Resonance Unit, Institute of Neurobiology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | - Rosalinda Díaz
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicología, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juan Fernandez-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicología, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Mexico City, Mexico. .,Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
| | - Luis Beltran-Parrazal
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Berlin 7, Fracc. Monte Magno, C.P. 91193, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
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24
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Perez-Lloret S, van de Warrenburg B, Rossi M, Rodríguez-Blázquez C, Zesiewicz T, Saute JAM, Durr A, Nishizawa M, Martinez-Martin P, Stebbins GT, Schrag A, Skorvanek M. Assessment of Ataxia Rating Scales and Cerebellar Functional Tests: Critique and Recommendations. Mov Disord 2020; 36:283-297. [PMID: 33022077 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We assessed the clinimetric properties of ataxia rating scales and functional tests, and made recommendations regarding their use. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted to identify the instruments used to rate ataxia symptoms. The identified rating scales and functional ability tests were reviewed and ranked by the panel as "recommended," "suggested," or "listed" for the assessment of patients with discrete cerebellar disorders, using previously established criteria. RESULTS We reviewed 14 instruments (9 rating scales and 5 functional tests). "Recommended" rating scales for the assessment of symptoms severity were: for Friedreich's ataxia, the Friedreich's Ataxia Rating Scale, the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), and the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA); for spinocerebellar ataxias, ICARS and SARA; for ataxia telangiectasia: ICARS and SARA; for brain tumors, SARA; for congenital disorder of glycosylation-phosphomannomutase-2 deficiency, ICARS; for cerebellar symptoms in multiple sclerosis, ICARS; for cerebellar symptoms in multiple system atrophy: Unified Multiple System Atrophy Rating Scale and ICARS; and for fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome, ICARS. "Recommended" functional tests were: for Friedreich's ataxia, Ataxia Functional Composite Score and Composite Cerebellar Functional Severity Score; and for spinocerebellar ataxias, Ataxia Functional Composite Score, Composite Cerebellar Functional Severity Score, and SCA Functional Index. CONCLUSIONS We identified some "recommended" scales and functional tests for the assessment of patients with major hereditary ataxias and other cerebellar disorders. The main limitations of these instruments include the limited assessment of patients in the more severe end of the spectrum and children. Further research in these populations is warranted. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Perez-Lloret
- National Research Council (CAECIHS-UAI, CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Faculty of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bart van de Warrenburg
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Department of Neurology, Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Malco Rossi
- Movement Disorders Section, Raul Carrea Institute for Neurological Research, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Jonas A M Saute
- Medical Genetics Division, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Neurology Division, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Medicine: Medical Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau-Paris Brain Institute (ICM), AP-HP, INSERM, CNRS, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | | | - Pablo Martinez-Martin
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Glenn T Stebbins
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anette Schrag
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UCL Institute of Neurology, Royal Free Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matej Skorvanek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, P. J. Safarik University, Kosice, Slovak Republic.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital L. Pasteur, Kosice, Slovak Republic
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25
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Rummey C, Zesiewicz TA, Perez-Lloret S, Farmer JM, Pandolfo M, Lynch DR. Test-retest reliability of the Friedreich's ataxia rating scale. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2020; 7:1708-1712. [PMID: 32779859 PMCID: PMC7480910 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The modified Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (mFARS) is a disease specific, exam-based neurological rating scale commonly used as a outcome measure in clinical trials. While extensive clinimetric testing indicates it's validity in measuring disease progression, formal test-retest reliability was lacking. To fill this gap, we acquired results from screening and baseline visits of several large clinical trials and calculated intraclass correlation coefficients, coefficients of variance, standard error, and the minimally detectable changes. This study demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability of the mFARS, and it's upright stability subscore.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Santiago Perez-Lloret
- Institute of Cardiological Research, University of Buenos Aires, National Research Council (ININCA-UBA-CONICET), Marcelo T. de Alvear 2270, Buenos Aires, C1122, Argentina.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Massimo Pandolfo
- Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - David R Lynch
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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26
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Abstract
The effectiveness of exercise and physical therapy for children with ataxia is poorly understood. The aim of this systematic review was to critically evaluate the range, scope and methodological quality of studies investigating the effectiveness of exercise and physical therapy interventions for children with ataxia. The following databases were searched: AMED, CENTRAL, CDSR, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, EMBASE, Ovid MEDLINE, PEDro and Web of Science. No limits were placed on language, type of study or year of publication. Two reviewers independently determined whether the studies met the inclusion criteria, extracted all relevant outcomes, and conducted methodological quality assessments. A total of 1988 studies were identified, and 124 full texts were screened. Twenty studies were included in the review. A total of 40 children (aged 5-18 years) with ataxia as a primary impairment participated in the included studies. Data were able to be extracted from eleven studies with a total of 21 children (aged 5-18 years), with a range of cerebellar pathology. The studies reported promising results but were of low methodological quality (no RCTs), used small sample sizes and were heterogeneous in terms of interventions, participants and outcomes. No firm conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of exercise and physical therapy for children with ataxia. There is a need for further high-quality child-centred research.
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27
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The NRF2 Signaling Network Defines Clinical Biomarkers and Therapeutic Opportunity in Friedreich's Ataxia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030916. [PMID: 32019240 PMCID: PMC7037688 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a trinucleotide repeats expansion neurodegenerative disorder, for which no cure or approved therapies are present. In most cases, GAA trinucleotide repetitions in the first intron of the FXN gene are the genetic trigger of FA, determining a strong reduction of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein involved in iron homeostasis. Frataxin depletion impairs iron–sulfur cluster biosynthesis and determines iron accumulation in the mitochondria. Mounting evidence suggests that these defects increase oxidative stress susceptibility and reactive oxygen species production in FA, where the pathologic picture is worsened by a defective regulation of the expression and signaling pathway modulation of the transcription factor NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (NRF2), one of the fundamental mediators of the cellular antioxidant response. NRF2 protein downregulation and impairment of its nuclear translocation can compromise the adequate cellular response to the frataxin depletion-dependent redox imbalance. As NRF2 stability, expression, and activation can be modulated by diverse natural and synthetic compounds, efforts have been made in recent years to understand if regulating NRF2 signaling might ameliorate the pathologic defects in FA. Here we provide an analysis of the pharmaceutical interventions aimed at restoring the NRF2 signaling network in FA, elucidating specific biomarkers useful for monitoring therapeutic effectiveness, and developing new therapeutic tools.
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28
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Rummey C, Farmer JM, Lynch DR. Predictors of loss of ambulation in Friedreich's ataxia. EClinicalMedicine 2020; 18:100213. [PMID: 31938785 PMCID: PMC6953645 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a characterized by progressive loss of coordination and balance leading to loss of ambulation (LoA) in nearly all affected individuals. While transition to becoming fully wheelchair bound is a critical milestone in the disease course, it presents a particularly challenging prediction, mostly due to variability in inter- and intra-subject severity and progression. For these reasons, LoA or potential surrogates have been impractical as outcomes in clinical trials. METHODS We studied progressive features leading to LoA in participants enrolled into the Friedreich's Ataxia Clinical Outcome Measures Study (FA-COMS), a natural history study with currently 4606 yearly follow up visits in 1021 patients. Loss of specific functions related to walking and standing of the neurological Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) exams were evaluated using time to event methods. To account for different severities, patients were stratified by age of disease onset. FINDINGS Early onset FRDA patients (<15y of age) typically become fully wheelchair dependent at a median of 11.5y (25th, 75th percentiles 8.6y, 16.2y) after the onset of first symptoms. Further time to loss of function analyses revealed a unique pattern of function loss, in particular in stance/balance items of the FARS exam. Each step in this typical sequence predicts future risk of LoA and can be used to rank patients in their individual progression. INTERPRETATION We propose a stratification paradigm for time to LoA in FRDA. Concurrently, each step in a sequence of events represents a surrogate measure for future LoA. This will facilitate patient selection and stratification in clinical trials, and potentially enable study of LoA as a direct clinical outcome. FUNDING This work was funded by the Friedreich's Ataxia Research alliance (FARA), www.curefa.org.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rummey
- Clinical Data Science GmbH, Missionsstrasse 12, CH-4055 Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - David R. Lynch
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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29
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Ghanekar SD, Miller WW, Meyer CJ, Fenelon KJ, Lacdao A, Zesiewicz TA. Orphan Drugs In Development For The Treatment Of Friedreich's Ataxia: Focus On Omaveloxolone. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2019; 9:103-107. [PMID: 31686946 PMCID: PMC6800542 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s180027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich’s Ataxia (FRDA) is a devastating and progressive ataxia, marked by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Nrf2 activators such as omaveloxolone (Omav) modulate antioxidative mechanisms, and thus may be viable therapeutic agents in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaila D Ghanekar
- University of South Florida (USF), Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Ataxia Research Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Wai Wai Miller
- University of South Florida (USF), Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Ataxia Research Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Movement Disorders Neuromodulation Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Colin J Meyer
- Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Department of Product Development, Irving, TX, USA
| | - Kevin J Fenelon
- University of South Florida (USF), Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Ataxia Research Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Alvin Lacdao
- University of South Florida (USF), Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Ataxia Research Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Theresa A Zesiewicz
- University of South Florida (USF), Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Ataxia Research Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,USF Movement Disorders Neuromodulation Center, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.,James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
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30
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Weng L, Wang Q, Yu S, Yang X, Lynch DR, Mesaros C, Blair IA. Evaluation of antibodies for western blot analysis of frataxin protein isoforms. J Immunol Methods 2019; 474:112629. [PMID: 31279523 PMCID: PMC6829029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Frataxin is the protein that is down-regulated in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA), an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by an intronic GAA repeat expansion in intron-1 of the FXN gene. The GAA repeats result in epigenetic silencing of the FXN gene and reduced expression of the cytosolic full-length frataxin (1-210) protein. Full length frataxin translocates to the mitochondria, leading to formation of mature frataxin (81-210) formed by cleavage of the mitochondrial targeting sequence at K-80 of the full-length protein. There are currently no approved treatments for FRDA, although experimental approaches involving up-regulation or replacement of mature frataxin protein through numerous approaches are being tested. Many of the pre-clinical studies of these experimental approaches are conducted in mouse and monkey models as well as in human cell lines. Consequently, well-validated antibodies are required for use in western blot analysis to determine whether levels of various forms of frataxin have been increased. Here we examined the specificity of five commercially available anti-frataxin antibodies and determined whether they detect mature frataxin in mouse heart tissue. Four protein standards of monkey, human, and mouse frataxin as well as mouse heart tissue were examined using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) in combination with western blot analysis. One antibody failed to detect any of the frataxin standards or endogenous frataxin in mouse heart tissue. Three of the antibodies detected a protein in mouse heart tissue that ran slightly faster on PAGE (at 23.4 kDa) to that predicted for full-length frataxin (23.9 kDa). One antibody detected all four frataxin standards as well as endogenous mouse mature frataxin in mouse tissue. Significantly, this antibody, which will be useful for monitoring mature frataxin levels in monkey, human, and mouse tissues, did not detect a protein in mouse heart tissue at 23.4 kDa. Therefore, antibodies detecting the immunoreactive protein at 23.4 kDa could be misleading when testing for the up-regulation of frataxin in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Weng
- Penn/CHOP Center of Excellence in Friedreich's Ataxia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn SRP Center and Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Qingqing Wang
- Penn/CHOP Center of Excellence in Friedreich's Ataxia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn SRP Center and Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sixiang Yu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xiaolu Yang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Penn/CHOP Center of Excellence in Friedreich's Ataxia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Clementina Mesaros
- Penn/CHOP Center of Excellence in Friedreich's Ataxia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn SRP Center and Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ian A Blair
- Penn/CHOP Center of Excellence in Friedreich's Ataxia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn SRP Center and Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Rummey C, Corben LA, Delatycki MB, Subramony SH, Bushara K, Gomez CM, Hoyle JC, Yoon G, Ravina B, Mathews KD, Wilmot G, Zesiewicz T, Perlman S, Farmer JM, Lynch DR. Psychometric properties of the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale. NEUROLOGY-GENETICS 2019; 5:371. [PMID: 32042904 PMCID: PMC6927357 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the psychometric properties of the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale neurologic examination (FARSn) and its subscores, as well as the influence of the modifications resulting in the now widely used modified FARS (mFARS) examination. Methods Based on cross-sectional FARS data from the FA–Clinical Outcome Measures cohort, we conducted correlation-based psychometric analyses to investigate the interplay of items and subscores within the FARSn/mFARS constructs. Results The results provide support for both the FARSn and the mFARS constructs, as well as individually for their upper limb and lower limb coordination components. The omission of the peripheral nervous system subscore (D) and 2 items of the bulbar subscore (A) in the mFARS strengthens the overall construct compared with the complete FARS. Conclusions A correlation-based psychometric analysis of the neurologic FARSn score justifies the overall validity of the scale. In addition, omission of items of limited functional significance as created in the mFARS improves the features of the measures. Such information is crucial to the ongoing application of the mFARS in natural history studies and clinical trials. Additional analyses of longitudinal changes will be necessary to fully ascertain its utility, especially in nonambulant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rummey
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Louise A Corben
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - S H Subramony
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Khalaf Bushara
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Christopher M Gomez
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Joseph Chad Hoyle
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Grace Yoon
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Bernard Ravina
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Katherine D Mathews
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - George Wilmot
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Susan Perlman
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - Jennifer M Farmer
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
| | - David R Lynch
- Clinical Data Science GmbH (C.R.), Basel, Switzerland; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research (L.A.C., M.B.D.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics (L.A.C., M.B.D.), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), McKnight Brain Institute, Room, Gainesville, FL; University of Minnesota (K.B.); University of Chicago (C.M.G.); Ohio State University (J.C.H.); Divisions of Neurology and Clinical and Metabolic Genetics (G.Y.), Department of Paediatrics, the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hospital; University of Rochester (B.R.); University of Iowa (K.D.M.); Emory University (G.W.); University of South Florida (T.Z.); Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (S.P.), Downingtown, PA; and Division of Neurology (D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
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Creigh PD, Mountain J, Sowden JE, Eichinger K, Ravina B, Larkindale J, Herrmann DN. Measuring peripheral nerve involvement in Friedreich's ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:1718-1727. [PMID: 31414727 PMCID: PMC6764626 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.50865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Experimental therapies under development for Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA) require validated biomarkers. In-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) of skin is a noninvasive way to quantify Meissner's corpuscle (MC) density and has emerged as a sensitive measure of sensory polyneuropathies. We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional study evaluating RCM of MCs and conventional peripheral nerve measures as candidate peripheral nerve markers in FRDA. METHODS Sixteen individuals with FRDA and 16 age- and gender-matched controls underwent RCM of MC density and morphology, skin biopsies for epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and quantitative sensory testing (QST) including touch, vibration, and cooling thresholds. RESULTS MC densities were measurable in all participants with FRDA, and were lower at digit V (hand), thenar eminence, and arch (foot) compared to controls. By contrast, sensory NCS showed floor effects and were obtainable in only 13% of FRDA participants. QST thresholds for touch, vibration, and cooling were higher at the hand and foot in FRDA than controls. Reductions in ENFDs were present in more severely affected individuals with FRDA (Friedreich's Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) >60) compared to matched controls, although skin biopsies were not well tolerated in children. MC densities, ENFDs, and touch and vibration thresholds were associated with clinical disease severity (FARS and modified FARS) and duration since symptom onset. INTERPRETATION MC density, ENFD, and QST thresholds provide structural and physiologic markers of sensory involvement in FRDA. Longitudinal evaluation is needed to determine whether these measures can identify changes associated with disease progression or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D. Creigh
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Joan Mountain
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Janet E. Sowden
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Katy Eichinger
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
| | - Bernard Ravina
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
- Praxis Precision MedicinesCambridgeMassachusetts
| | - Jane Larkindale
- Friedreich’s Ataxia Research AllianceDowningtownPennsylvania
| | - David N. Herrmann
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and DentistryRochesterNew York
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Borel S, Gatignol P, Smail M, Monin ML, Ewenczyk C, Bouccara D, Durr A. Oral mobility reflects rate of progression in advanced Friedreich's ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:1888-1892. [PMID: 31448573 PMCID: PMC6764486 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.50879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to identify a sensitive marker of disease progression in Friedreich's ataxia. We prospectively evaluated speech, voice, and oromotor function in 40 patients at two timepoints. The mean disease duration was 20.8 ± 9.8 years and mean SARA score 23.7 ± 8.6 at baseline. Oral motor mobility, assessed by a combination of movements of the face, eyes, cheeks, lips, and tongue, decreased significantly after 1 year (P < 0.0001). The standardized response mean over 12 months was considered as large for oral mobility (1.26) but small for SARA (0.12). Oral mobility could therefore be a sensitive marker in therapeutic trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Borel
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1159 Réhabilitation Chirurgicale Mini-Invasive et Robotisée de l'Audition, Paris, France.,AP-HP, Service d'ORL, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Peggy Gatignol
- AP-HP, Service d'ORL, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMRS1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, Paris, France
| | - Mustapha Smail
- AP-HP, Service d'ORL, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Lorraine Monin
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), AP-HP, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Claire Ewenczyk
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), AP-HP, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Didier Bouccara
- AP-HP, Service d'ORL, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), AP-HP, INSERM, CNRS, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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Clay A, Hearle P, Schadt K, Lynch DR. New developments in pharmacotherapy for Friedreich ataxia. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1855-1867. [PMID: 31311349 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1639671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Friedreich ataxia (FRDA), a rare disease caused by the deficiency of the mitochondrial matrix protein frataxin, affects roughly 1 in 50,000 individuals worldwide. Current and emerging therapies focus on reversing the deleterious effects of such deficiency including mitochondrial augmentation and increasing frataxin levels, providing the possibility of treatment options for this physiologically complex, multisystem disorder. Areas covered: In this review article, the authors discuss the current and prior in vivo and in vitro research studies related to the treatment of FRDA, with a particular interest in future implications of each therapy. Expert opinion: Since the discovery of FXN in 1996, multiple clinical trials have occurred or are currently occurring; at a rapid pace for a rare disease. These trials have been directed at the augmentation of mitochondrial function and/or alleviation of symptoms and are not regarded as potential cures in FRDA. Either a combination of therapies or a drug that replaces or increases the pathologically low levels of frataxin better represent potential cures in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Clay
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Patrick Hearle
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Kim Schadt
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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Patel M, Schadt K, McCormick A, Isaacs C, Dong YN, Lynch DR. Open-label pilot study of oral methylprednisolone for the treatment of patients with friedreich ataxia. Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:571-575. [PMID: 31206761 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study we assessed the effect of methylprednisolone on safety, tolerability, and ability in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). METHODS The study was an open-label trial of pulse methylprednisolone on 11 participants with FRDA. All participants followed a 28-day treatment cycle, repeated 7 times. Patients were assessed with the timed 25-foot walk (T25FW), 1-minute walk (1MW), the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS), and the 9-hole peg test (9HPT). Efficacy was tested by comparing baseline and week 26 visits, separated into adult and pediatric groups. RESULTS In comparisons of participants' baseline and week 26 visits, only the pediatric cohort's 1MW score showed change (P < 0.05). The T25FW, the primary outcome measure, did not change significantly. DISCUSSION Pediatric participants improved their gait distance in the 1MW, but did not significantly improve in other measures in this overall negative study. Methylprednisolone was generally well tolerated, suggesting that it may be useful for ambulatory children with FRDA if benefit is found with further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Patel
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
| | - Kimberly Schadt
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
| | - Ashley McCormick
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
| | - Charles Isaacs
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
| | - Yi Na Dong
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-4318, USA
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The current state of biomarker research for Friedreich's ataxia: a report from the 2018 FARA biomarker meeting. Future Sci OA 2019; 5:FSO398. [PMID: 31285843 PMCID: PMC6609901 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2019-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2018 FARA Biomarker Meeting highlighted the current state of development of biomarkers for Friedreich’s ataxia. A mass spectroscopy assay to sensitively measure mature frataxin (reduction of which is the root cause of disease) is being developed. Biomarkers to monitor neurological disease progression include imaging, electrophysiological measures and measures of nerve function, which may be measured either in serum and/or through imaging-based technologies. Potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers include metabolic and protein biomarkers and markers of nerve damage. Cardiac imaging and serum biomarkers may reflect cardiac disease progression. Considerable progress has been made in the development of biomarkers for various contexts of use, but further work is needed in terms of larger longitudinal multisite studies, and identification of novel biomarkers for additional use cases Biomarkers are characteristics that can be objectively measured, evaluated and used as indicators of disease progression or the effect of a therapy. Friedreich’s ataxia is a progressive multisystem neuromuscular disease with no treatment. Current clinical measures cannot robustly detect disease progression in less than a year, meaning that clinical trials are long and drug development is slow. The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance and the scientific community are looking for biomarkers that show change in shorter time frames that can accelerate drug development. The 2018 FARA Biomarker Meeting summarized the exciting findings that represent the current state of the field.
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Boesch S, Indelicato E. Erythropoietin and Friedreich Ataxia: Time for a Reappraisal? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:386. [PMID: 31105516 PMCID: PMC6491891 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a rare neurological disorder due to deficiency of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. Frataxin deficiency results in impaired mitochondrial function and iron deposition in affected tissues. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a cytokine which was mostly known as a key regulator of erythropoiesis until cumulative evidence showed additional neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties. These features offered the rationale for advancement of EPO in clinical trials in different neurological disorders in the past years, including FRDA. Several mechanisms of action of EPO may be beneficial in FRDA. First of all, EPO exposure results in frataxin upregulation in vitro and in vivo. By promoting erythropoiesis, EPO influences iron metabolism and induces shifts in iron pool which may ameliorate conditions of free iron excess and iron accumulation. Furthermore, EPO signaling is crucial for mitochondrial gene activation and mitochondrial biogenesis. Up to date nine clinical trials investigated the effects of EPO and derivatives in FRDA. The majority of these studies had a proof-of-concept design. Considering the natural history of FRDA, all of them were too short in duration and not powered for clinical changes. However, these studies addressed significant issues in the treatment with EPO, such as (1) the challenge of the dose finding, (2) stability of frataxin up-regulation, (3) continuous versus intermittent stimulation with EPO/regimen, or (4) tissue changes after EPO exposure in humans in vivo (muscle biopsy, brain imaging). Despite several clinical trials in the past, no treatment is available for the treatment of FRDA. Current lines of research focus on gene therapy, frataxin replacement strategies and on regulation of key metabolic checkpoints such as NrF2. Due to potential crosstalk with all these mechanisms, interventions on the EPO pathway still represent a valuable research field. The recent development of small EPO mimetics which maintain cytoprotective properties without erythropoietic action may open a new era in EPO research for the treatment of FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Boesch
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Lynch DR, Hauser L, McCormick A, Wells M, Dong YN, McCormack S, Schadt K, Perlman S, Subramony SH, Mathews KD, Brocht A, Ball J, Perdok R, Grahn A, Vescio T, Sherman JW, Farmer JM. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of interferon- γ 1b in Friedreich Ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:546-553. [PMID: 30911578 PMCID: PMC6414489 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective In vitro, in vivo, and open-label studies suggest that interferon gamma (IFN-γ 1b) may improve clinical features in Friedreich Ataxia through an increase in frataxin levels. The present study evaluates the efficacy and safety of IFN-γ 1b in the treatment of Friedreich Ataxia through a double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Methods Ninety-two subjects with FRDA between 10 and 25 years of age were enrolled. Subjects received either IFN-γ 1b or placebo for 6 months. The primary outcome measure was the modified Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (mFARS). Results No difference was noted between the groups after 6 months of treatment in the mFARS or secondary outcome measures. No change was noted in buccal cell or whole blood frataxin levels. However, during an open-label extension period, subjects had a more stable course than expected based on natural history data. Conclusions This study provides no direct evidence for a beneficial effect of IFN-γ1b in FRDA. The modest stabilization compared to natural history data leaves open the possibility that longer studies may demonstrate benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R. Lynch
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - Lauren Hauser
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - Ashley McCormick
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - McKenzie Wells
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - Yi Na Dong
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - Shana McCormack
- Division of Endocrinology & DiabetesChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia19104
| | - Kim Schadt
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia502 Abramson Research Center, 3615 Civic Center BlvdPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104‐4318
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of California Los AngelesBox 956975, 1‐167 RNRCLos AngelesCalifornia90095
| | - Sub H. Subramony
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of FloridaRoom L3‐100, McKnight Brain Institute, 1149 Newell DriveGainesvilleFlorida32611
| | - Katherine D. Mathews
- Department of Pediatrics and NeurologyUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowa
| | - Alicia Brocht
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of RochesterRochesterNew York14620
| | - Julie Ball
- Horizon Pharma, Inc.Lake ForestIllinois60045
| | | | - Amy Grahn
- Horizon Pharma, Inc.Lake ForestIllinois60045
| | - Tom Vescio
- Horizon Pharma, Inc.Lake ForestIllinois60045
| | | | - Jennifer M. Farmer
- Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance533 W Uwchlan AveDowningtownPennsylvania19335
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Lynch DR, Farmer J, Hauser L, Blair IA, Wang QQ, Mesaros C, Snyder N, Boesch S, Chin M, Delatycki MB, Giunti P, Goldsberry A, Hoyle C, McBride MG, Nachbauer W, O'Grady M, Perlman S, Subramony SH, Wilmot GR, Zesiewicz T, Meyer C. Safety, pharmacodynamics, and potential benefit of omaveloxolone in Friedreich ataxia. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2018; 6:15-26. [PMID: 30656180 PMCID: PMC6331199 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Previous studies have demonstrated that suppression of Nrf2 in Friedreich ataxia tissues contributes to excess oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and reduced ATP production. Omaveloxolone, an Nrf2 activator and NF-kB suppressor, targets dysfunctional inflammatory, metabolic, and bioenergetic pathways. The dose-ranging portion of this Phase 2 study assessed the safety, pharmacodynamics, and potential benefit of omaveloxolone in Friedreich ataxia patients (NCT02255435). Methods Sixty-nine Friedreich ataxia patients were randomized 3:1 to either omaveloxolone or placebo administered once daily for 12 weeks. Patients were randomized in cohorts of eight patients, at dose levels of 2.5-300 mg/day. Results Omaveloxolone was well tolerated, and adverse events were generally mild. Optimal pharmacodynamic changes (noted by changes in ferritin and GGT) were observed at doses of 80 and 160 mg/day. No significant changes were observed in the primary outcome, peak work load in maximal exercise testing (0.9 ± 2.9 W, placebo corrected). At the 160 mg/day dose, omaveloxolone improved the secondary outcome of the mFARS by 3.8 points versus baseline (P = 0.0001) and by 2.3 points versus placebo (P = 0.06). Omaveloxolone produced greater improvements in mFARS in patients that did not have musculoskeletal foot deformity (pes cavus). In patients without this foot deformity, omaveloxolone improved mFARS by 6.0 points from baseline (P < 0.0001) and by 4.4 points versus placebo (P = 0.01) at the 160 mg/day. Interpretation Treatment of Friedreich ataxia patients with omaveloxolone at the optimal dose level of 160 mg/day appears to improve neurological function. Therefore, omaveloxolone treatment is being examined in greater detail at 150 mg/day for Friedreich ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Division of Neurology The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 502 Abramson Research Center 3615 Civic Center Blvd Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104-4318
| | - Jennifer Farmer
- Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance 533 W Uwchlan Ave Downingtown Pennsylvania 19335
| | - Lauren Hauser
- Division of Neurology The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 502 Abramson Research Center 3615 Civic Center Blvd Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104-4318
| | - Ian A Blair
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Qing Qing Wang
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Clementina Mesaros
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Nathaniel Snyder
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Department of Neurology Medizinische Universität Innsbruck Christoph-Probst-Platz 1 Innrain 52 6020 Innsbruck Austria
| | - Melanie Chin
- Reata Pharmaceuticals 2801 Gateway Drive Suite 150 Irving Texas 75063
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services Murdoch Children's Research Institute Flemington Road Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia
| | - Paola Giunti
- Institute of Neurology University College of London Queen Square London United Kingdom WC1N 3BG
| | - Angela Goldsberry
- Department of Neurology Medizinische Universität Innsbruck Christoph-Probst-Platz 1 Innrain 52 6020 Innsbruck Austria
| | - Chad Hoyle
- Department of Neurology The Ohio State University 395 W. 12th Ave. 7th Floor Columbus Ohio 43210
| | - Michael G McBride
- Division of Neurology The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 502 Abramson Research Center 3615 Civic Center Blvd Philadelphia Pennsylvania 19104-4318
| | - Wolfgang Nachbauer
- Department of Neurology Medizinische Universität Innsbruck Christoph-Probst-Platz 1 Innrain 52 6020 Innsbruck Austria
| | - Megan O'Grady
- Reata Pharmaceuticals 2801 Gateway Drive Suite 150 Irving Texas 75063
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of Neurology University of California Los Angeles BOX 956975 1-167 RNRC Los Angeles California 90095
| | - S H Subramony
- Department of Neurology McKnight Brain Institute Room L3-100 1149 Newell Drive Gainesville Florida 32611
| | - George R Wilmot
- Department of Neurology Emory University 1365 Clifton Rd Atlanta Georgia 30322
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Department of Neurology University of South Florida 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd. MDC 55 Tampa Florida 33612
| | - Colin Meyer
- Reata Pharmaceuticals 2801 Gateway Drive Suite 150 Irving Texas 75063
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Chirino A, Hernandez-Castillo CR, Galvez V, Contreras A, Diaz R, Beltran-Parrazal L, Fernandez-Ruiz J. Motor and cognitive impairments in spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 and its correlations with cortical volumes. Eur J Neurosci 2018; 48:3199-3211. [PMID: 30255962 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7 (SCA7) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) repeat expansion. It is clinically characterized by ataxia and visual loss. To date, little is known about SCA7 cognitive impairments and its relationship with grey matter volume (GMV) changes. The aim of this study was to explore SCA7 patients' performance in specific components of auditory-verbal neuropsychological tests and to correlate their scores with genetic mutation, severity of ataxia and GMV. We assessed verbal memory and verbal fluency proficiencies in 31 genetically confirmed SCA7 patients, and compared their results with 32 healthy matched volunteers; we also correlated CAG repeats and severity of motor symptoms with performance in the auditory-verbal tests. SCA7 patients exhibited deficiencies in several components of these cognitive tasks, which were independent of motor impairments and showed no relation to CAG repeats. Based on Resonance Images performed in 27 patients we found association between ataxia severity and GMV in "sensoriomotor" cerebellum, as well as correlations of impaired verbal memory and semantic fluency scores with GMV in association cortices, including the right parahippocampal gyrus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of deficits in the organization of semantic information and in the evocation of verbal material, as well as greater susceptibility to proactive interference in SCA7 patients. These findings bring novel information about specific cognitive abilities in SCA7 patients, particularly verbal memory and fluency, and their relation with GMV variations in circumscribed brain regions, including association cortices known to have functional relationships with the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Chirino
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Victor Galvez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias cognitivas y desarrollo, Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Panamericana, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Anabel Contreras
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, México
| | - Rosalinda Diaz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Juan Fernandez-Ruiz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México.,Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, México
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Hamedani AG, Hauser LA, Perlman S, Mathews K, Wilmot GR, Zesiewicz T, Subramony SH, Ashizawa T, Delatycki MB, Brocht A, Lynch DR. Longitudinal analysis of contrast acuity in Friedreich ataxia. NEUROLOGY-GENETICS 2018; 4:e250. [PMID: 30065952 PMCID: PMC6066362 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective To determine the natural history of contrast acuity in Friedreich ataxia. Methods In the Friedreich Ataxia–Clinical Outcome Measures Study, participants (n = 764) underwent binocular high- and low-contrast visual acuity testing at annual study visits. Mixed-effects linear regression was used to model visual acuity as a function of time, with random intercepts and slopes to account for intraindividual correlation of repeated measurements. A time-varying covariate was used to adjust for diabetes, and interaction terms were used to assess for effect modification by GAA repeat length, disease duration, and other variables. Results Across a median of 4.4 years of follow-up, visual acuity decreased significantly at 100% contrast (−0.37 letters/y, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.52 to −0.21), 2.5% contrast (−0.81 letters/year, 95% CI: −0.99 to −0.65), and 1.25% contrast (−1.12 letters/y, 95% CI: −1.29 to −0.96 letters/year). There was a significant interaction between time and GAA repeat length such that the rate of decrease in visual acuity was greater for patients with higher GAA repeat lengths at 2.5% contrast (p = 0.018) and 1.25% contrast (p = 0.043) but not 100% contrast. There was no effect modification by age at onset after adjusting for GAA repeat length. Conclusions Low-contrast visual acuity decreases linearly over time in Friedreich ataxia, and the rate of decrease is greater at higher GAA repeat lengths. Contrast sensitivity has the potential to serve as a biomarker and surrogate outcome in future studies of Friedreich ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali G Hamedani
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Lauren A Hauser
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Katherine Mathews
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - George R Wilmot
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Theresa Zesiewicz
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - S H Subramony
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Tetsuo Ashizawa
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - Alicia Brocht
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
| | - David R Lynch
- Department of Neurology (A.G.H., D.R.L.), University of Pennsylvania; Divisions of Neurology and Pediatrics (L.A.H., D.R.L.), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA; Department of Neurology (S.P.), University of California at Los Angeles; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (K.M.), University of Iowa; Department of Neurology (G.R.W.), Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Department of Neurology (T.Z.), University of South Florida, Tampa Bay; Department of Neurology (S.H.S.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Department of Neurology (T.A.), Houston Methodist Hospital, TX; Murdoch Children's Research Institute (M.B.D.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Neurology (A.B.), University of Rochester, NY
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Tanguy Melac A, Mariotti C, Filipovic Pierucci A, Giunti P, Arpa J, Boesch S, Klopstock T, Müller Vom Hagen J, Klockgether T, Bürk K, Schulz JB, Reetz K, Pandolfo M, Durr A, Tezenas du Montcel S. Friedreich and dominant ataxias: quantitative differences in cerebellar dysfunction measurements. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2018; 89:559-565. [PMID: 29279305 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2017-316964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensitive outcome measures for clinical trials on cerebellar ataxias are lacking. Most cerebellar ataxias progress very slowly and quantitative measurements are required to evaluate cerebellar dysfunction. METHODS We evaluated two scales for rating cerebellar ataxias: the Composite Cerebellar Functional Severity (CCFS) Scale and Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA), in patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) and controls. We evaluated these scales for different diseases and investigated the factors governing the scores obtained. All patients were recruited prospectively. RESULTS There were 383 patients with Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), 205 patients with SCA and 168 controls. In FRDA, 31% of the variance of cerebellar signs with the CCFS and 41% of that with SARA were explained by disease duration, age at onset and the shorter abnormal repeat in the FXN gene. Increases in CCFS and SARA scores per year were lower for FRDA than for SCA (CCFS index: 0.123±0.123 per year vs 0.163±0.179, P<0.001; SARA index: 1.5±1.2 vs 1.7±1.7, P<0.001), indicating slower cerebellar dysfunction indexes for FRDA than for SCA. Patients with SCA2 had higher CCFS scores than patients with SCA1 and SCA3, but similar SARA scores. CONCLUSIONS Cerebellar dysfunction, as measured with the CCFS and SARA scales, was more severe in FRDA than in patients with SCA, but with lower progression indexes, within the limits of these types of indexes. Ceiling effects may occur at late stages, for both scales. The CCFS scale is rater-independent and could be used in a multicentre context, as it is simple, rapid and fully automated. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02069509.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Tanguy Melac
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière Charles-Foix, Paris, France
| | - Caterina Mariotti
- Unit of Genetics of Neurodegenerative and Metabolic Diseases, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Paola Giunti
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Javier Arpa
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sylvia Boesch
- Department of Neurology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Jennifer Müller Vom Hagen
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Klockgether
- Department of Neurology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Katrin Bürk
- Department of Neurology, Philipps Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Paracelsus-Elena-Klinik, Kassel, Germany
| | - Jörg B Schulz
- Department of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases, Clinical Trial Centre, JARA-BRAIN Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Reetz
- Department of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases, Clinical Trial Centre, JARA-BRAIN Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Alexandra Durr
- Department of Genetics, ICM Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle and APHP, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Tezenas du Montcel
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière Charles-Foix, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMR_S1136, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR_S 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France
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Rummey C, Kichula E, Lynch DR. Clinical trial design for Friedreich ataxia - Where are we now and what do we need? Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2018.1449638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rummey
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Clinical Data Science GmbH, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Elizabeth Kichula
- Division of Neurology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David R. Lynch
- Division of Neurology, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Pane C, Costabile T, Salvati A, Aurisicchio DL, Abate F, Liguori A, Paciello F, Peluso S, Manganelli F, De Michele G, Filla A, Saccà F. Adult normative values for the PATA Rate Test. J Neurol 2018; 265:1102-1105. [PMID: 29511862 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8820-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During neurological evaluation, dysarthria is not rated using quantitative measures, but rather using a qualitative approach. OBJECTIVE Aim of our study was to validate and acquire normative values for the PATA Rate Task (PRT), a quantitative test used to measure the severity of dysarthria. METHODS For the PRT probands are invited to repeat the syllables "PA-TA" as quickly as possible during a 10-s interval. The score consists in the number of correct repetition of both syllables. RESULTS We enrolled 232 healthy controls (118 males, 114 females), mean and standard deviation of the PRT was 28.84 ± 6.6 (range 14-52). The PRT showed good inter-rater reliability (R = 0.783; p < 0.001), as well as test-retest reliability (R = 0.927; p < 0.001), and intra-rater reliability (R = 0.888; p < 0.001). Higher age correlated with lower scores (R = - 0.368; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The PRT showed good reliability and could be easily added to the evaluation of movement disorders where a speech evaluation is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pane
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Teresa Costabile
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Adriana Salvati
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Dalila Luisa Aurisicchio
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Filomena Abate
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Angese Liguori
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Francesca Paciello
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Silvio Peluso
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Michele
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Alessandro Filla
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Francesco Saccà
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy.
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Psychometric properties of outcome measures evaluating decline in gait in cerebellar ataxia: A systematic review. Gait Posture 2018; 61:149-162. [PMID: 29351857 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxia often results in impairment in ambulation secondary to gait pattern dysfunction and compensatory gait adjustments. Pharmaceutical and therapy-based interventions with potential benefit for gait in ataxia are starting to emerge, however evaluation of such interventions is hampered by the lack of outcome measures that are responsive, valid and reliable for measurement of gait decline in cerebellar ataxia. This systematic review aimed for the first time to evaluate the psychometric properties of gait and walking outcomes applicable to individuals with cerebellar ataxia. Only studies evaluating straight walking were included. A comprehensive search of three databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE) identified 53 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Forty-nine were rated as 'poor' as assessed by the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist. The primary objective of most studies was to explore changes in gait related to ataxia, rather than to examine psychometric properties of outcomes. This resulted in methodologies not specific for psychometric assessment. Thirty-nine studies examined validity, 11 examined responsiveness and 12 measured reliability. Review of the data identified double and single support and swing percentage of the gait cycle, velocity, step length and the Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) gait item as the most valid and responsive measures of gait in cerebellar ataxia. However, further evaluation to establish their reliability and applicability for use in clinical trials is clearly warranted. We recommend that inter-session reliability of gait outcomes should be evaluated to ensure changes are reflective of intervention effectiveness in cerebellar ataxia.
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Progress in the treatment of Friedreich ataxia. Neurol Neurochir Pol 2018; 52:129-139. [PMID: 29499876 DOI: 10.1016/j.pjnns.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a progressive neurological disorder affecting approximately 1 in 29,000 individuals of European descent. At present, there is no approved pharmacological treatment for this condition however research into treatment of FRDA has advanced considerably over the last two decades since the genetic cause was identified. Current proposed treatment strategies include decreasing oxidative stress, increasing cellular frataxin, improving mitochondrial function as well as modulating frataxin controlled metabolic pathways. Genetic and cell based therapies also hold great promise. Finally, physical therapies are being explored as a means of maximising function in those affected by FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvia Bösch
- Neurology Department, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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Koopman WJ, Beyrath J, Fung CW, Koene S, Rodenburg RJ, Willems PH, Smeitink JA. Mitochondrial disorders in children: toward development of small-molecule treatment strategies. EMBO Mol Med 2017; 8:311-27. [PMID: 26951622 PMCID: PMC4818752 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201506131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This review presents our current understanding of the pathophysiology and potential treatment strategies with respect to mitochondrial disease in children. We focus on pathologies due to mutations in nuclear DNA‐encoded structural and assembly factors of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system, with a particular emphasis on isolated mitochondrial complex I deficiency. Following a brief introduction into mitochondrial disease and OXPHOS function, an overview is provided of the diagnostic process in children with mitochondrial disorders. This includes the impact of whole‐exome sequencing and relevance of cellular complementation studies. Next, we briefly present how OXPHOS mutations can affect cellular parameters, primarily based on studies in patient‐derived fibroblasts, and how this information can be used for the rational design of small‐molecule treatment strategies. Finally, we discuss clinical trial design and provide an overview of small molecules that are currently being developed for treatment of mitochondrial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner Jh Koopman
- Department of Biochemistry, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands Centre for Systems Biology and Bioenergetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Cheuk-Wing Fung
- Department of Pediatrics, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Saskia Koene
- Department of Pediatrics, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J Rodenburg
- Department of Pediatrics, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Hgm Willems
- Department of Biochemistry, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands Centre for Systems Biology and Bioenergetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Am Smeitink
- Centre for Systems Biology and Bioenergetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands Khondrion BV, Nijmegen, The Netherlands Department of Pediatrics, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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McCormick A, Farmer J, Perlman S, Delatycki M, Wilmot G, Matthews K, Yoon G, Hoyle C, Subramony SH, Zesiewicz T, Lynch DR, McCormack SE. Impact of diabetes in the Friedreich ataxia clinical outcome measures study. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2017; 4:622-631. [PMID: 28904984 PMCID: PMC5590524 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a progressive neuromuscular disorder caused by GAA triplet repeat expansions or point mutations in the FXN gene. FA is associated with increased risk of diabetes mellitus (DM). This study assessed the age-specific prevalence of FA-associated DM and its impact on neurologic outcomes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Participants were 811 individuals with FA from 12 international sites in a prospective natural history study (FA Clinical Outcome Measures Study, FACOMS). Physical function was assessed, using validated instruments. Multivariable regression analyses examined the independent association of DM with outcomes. RESULTS Mean age of participants was 30.1 years (SD 15.3, range: 7-82), 50% were female, and 94% were non-Hispanic white. 9% (42/459) of adults and 3% (10/352) of children had DM. Individuals with FA-associated DM were older (P < 0.001), had longer GAA repeat length on the least affected FXN allele (P = 0.037), and more severe FA (P = 0.0001). Of individuals with DM, 65% (34/52) were taking insulin. Even after accounting statistically for both age and GAA repeat length, DM was independently associated with greater FA symptom burden (P = 0.010), reduced capacity to perform activities of daily living (P = 0.021), and a decrease of 0.33 SDs on a composite performance measure (95% CI: -0.56-0.11, P = 0.004); the relative impact of DM was most apparent in younger individuals. CONCLUSIONS DM-associated FA has an independent adverse impact on well-being in affected individuals, particularly at younger ages. In future, evidence-based approaches for identification and management of FA-related DM may improve both health and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley McCormick
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
| | - Jennifer Farmer
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
- Department of NeurologyPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
- Department of PediatricsPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCalifornia90095
| | - Martin Delatycki
- Department of GeneticsMurdoch Children's Research InstituteVictoriaAustralia
| | - George Wilmot
- Department of NeurologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgia30322
| | - Katherine Matthews
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowa52242
| | - Grace Yoon
- Clinical and Metabolic GeneticsHospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoCanada
| | - Chad Hoyle
- Department of NeurologyOhio State University College of MedicineColumbusOhio43210
| | - Sub H. Subramony
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of FloridaCollege of MedicineGainesvilleFlorida32610
| | | | - David R. Lynch
- Division of NeurologyChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
- Department of NeurologyPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
- Department of PediatricsPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
| | - Shana E. McCormack
- Department of PediatricsPerelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
- Division of Endocrinology and DiabetesChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPennsylvania19104
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Strawser C, Schadt K, Hauser L, McCormick A, Wells M, Larkindale J, Lin H, Lynch DR. Pharmacological therapeutics in Friedreich ataxia: the present state. Expert Rev Neurother 2017; 17:895-907. [PMID: 28724340 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2017.1356721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a progressive, inherited, neurodegenerative disease for which there is currently no cure or approved treatment. FRDA is caused by deficits in the production and expression of frataxin, a protein found in the mitochondria that is most likely responsible for regulating iron-sulfur cluster enzymes within the cell. A decrease in frataxin causes dysfunction of adenosine triphosphate synthesis, accumulation of mitochondrial iron, and other events leading to downstream cellular dysfunction. Areas covered: Therapeutic development for FRDA currently focuses on improving mitochondrial function and finding ways to increase frataxin expression. Additionally, the authors will review potential approaches aimed at iron modulation and genetic modulation. Finally, gene therapy is progressing rapidly and is being explored as a treatment for FRDA. Expert commentary: The collection of multiple therapeutic approaches provides many possible ways to treat FRDA. Although the mitochondrial approaches are not thought to be curative, as the primary frataxin deficit will remain, they may still produce improvements in quality of life and slowing of progression. Therapies aimed at frataxin restoration are more likely to truly modify the disease, with gene therapy as the best possibility to alter the course of the disease from both a cardiac and neurological perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly Schadt
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Lauren Hauser
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | | | - McKenzie Wells
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Jane Larkindale
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Hong Lin
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - David R Lynch
- a Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
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