Cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with first-line disease-modifying therapy: a multi-center, controlled study using the BICAMS battery

The impact of disease modifying therapies on cognitive functions typically impaired in multiple sclerosis patients: a clinician's review

Objective

Over the last few decades clinicians have become aware that cognitive impairment might be a major cause of disability, loss of employment and poor quality of life in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis [MS].The impact of disease modifying therapies [DMTs] on cognition is still a matter of debate. Theoretically, DMTs could exert a substantial beneficial effect by means of reducing neuroinflammation and brain atrophy, which are established correlates of cognitive dysfunction. The aim of the study was to review the evidence concerning the effect of DMTs on cognitive functions.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, and the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis [ECTRIMS] Library were searched for articles concerning the pediatric and adult populations of patients with multiple sclerosis, including clinical trials and RWD, where psychometric results were analyzed as secondary or exploratory endpoints.

Results

We reviewed a total of 44 studies that were found by our search strategy, analyzed the psychological tests that were applied, the length of the follow-up, and possible limitations. We pointed out the difficulties associated with assessing of DMTs' effects on cognitive functions, and pitfalls in cognitive tools used for evaluating of MS patients.

Conclusion

There is a need to highlight this aspect of MS therapies, and to collect adequate data to make informed therapeutic decisions, to improve our understanding of MS-related cognitive dysfunction and provide new therapeutic targets.

The effect of timing of high-efficacy therapy on processing speed performance in multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

The potential influence of the timing of high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies (heDMTs) on processing speed (PS) performance is critically lacking in current literature.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the extent to which early commencement of heDMTs would be associated with a better PS evolution as compared to moderate efficacy disease-modifying therapies (meDMTs) and delayed commencement of heDMTs.

METHODS

In this ongoing prospective longitudinal study, the 695 MS patients that have received a PS evaluation at 12-month of follow-up measured by the iPad®-based Processing Speed Test (PST) were retained for the analysis. All patients who had ever been prescribed a high efficacy disease-modifying therapy (heDMT) were classified in tertiles according to the proportion of their disease duration that had been on heDMTs. Based on these tertiles and the time to the first heDMT from the disease onset, patients were divided into the early heDMT group and the delayed heDMT group. Between-group differences in mean PST standardized (Z-score) change from baseline were analyzed using a linear mixed model.

RESULTS

In the multivariable model, each year of delay in starting a heDMT was associated with increased odds of cognitive worsening at 12-month (OR = 1.0324, 95% CI = 1.014-1.062, p<0.05). MeDMT-treated patients were at a significantly higher risk for cognitive worsening than early heDMT patients (OR= 2.57, 95%CI = 1.02-6.17). Linear mixed model-based adjusted mean change in PST Z-score from baseline was significantly better in those patients with the longest proportion of their disease duration treated with heDMT (highest tertile) compared to the lowest tertile (difference 0.37 [95%CI 0.02-0.92;p=0.036) and medium tertile (difference 0.39 [95%CI 0.06-0.31;p=0.037).

CONCLUSION

Early he-DMT-treated patients are at significantly lower risk for cognitive worsening. Early administration of heDMTs is associated with greater cognitive functioning improvements than delayed commencement or meDMTs.

Glatiramer Acetate Immunomodulation: Evidence of Neuroprotection and Cognitive Preservation

Novel, neuroprotective uses of Copaxone (generic name: glatiramer acetate—GA) are being examined, primarily in neurological conditions involving cognitive decline. GA is a well-studied synthetic copolymer that is FDA-approved for immune-based treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Clinical studies have explored the potential mechanism of action (MOA) and outcomes of GA immunization in patients. Furthermore, results from these and animal studies suggest that GA has a direct immunomodulatory effect on adaptive and innate immune cell phenotypes and responses. These MOAs have been postulated to have a common neuroprotective impact in several neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, several clinical studies report that the use of GA mitigated MS-associated cognitive decline. Its propensity to ameliorate neuro-proinflammatory and degenerative processes ignites increased interest in potential alternate uses such as in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Preclinical studies are exploring less frequent subcutaneous administration of GA, such as once weekly or monthly or a single dosing regimen. Indeed, cognitive functions were found to be either preserved, reversed, or improved after the less frequent treatment regimens with GA in animal models of AD. In this systematic review, we examine the potential novel uses of GA across clinical and pre-clinical studies, with evidence for its beneficial impact on cognition. Future investigation in large-size, double-blind clinical trials is warranted to establish the impact of GA immunomodulation on neuroprotection and cognitive preservation in various neurological conditions.

Identifying Early Neuropsychological Indicators of Cognitive Involvement in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease of the central nervous system that is most commonly seen in early to middle adulthood, although it can be diagnosed during childhood or later in life. While cognitive impairment can become more prevalent and severe as the disease progresses, signs of cognitive involvement can be apparent in the early stages of the disease. In this review, we discuss the prevalence and types of cognitive impairment seen in early MS, including the specific measures used to identify them, as well as the challenges in characterizing their frequency and progression. In addition to examining the progression of early cognitive involvement over time, we explore the clinical factors associated with early cognitive involvement, including demographics, level of physical disability, disease modifying therapy use, vocational status, and psychological and physical symptoms. Given the prevalence and functional impact these impairments can have for persons with MS, considerations for clinicians are provided, such as the role of early cognitive screenings and the importance of comprehensive neuropsychological assessments.

The Expanded Disability Status Scale Score and Demographic Indexes Are Correlated with the Severity of Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Background and Purpose

Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). Although demographic and clinical factors contribute to MS-dependent CI, previous findings have been inconsistent. This study aimed to identify the cognitive domains that are impaired in MS patients, and to determine the impacts of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and other clinical and demographic factors on them domains.

Methods

This study enrolled 115 MS patients. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in Multiple Sclerosis (MACFIMS) battery. CI severity was assessed based on the number of impaired tasks in the MACFIMS battery, with impairment in two or more tasks defined as CI cases. Correlation analysis was used to determine whether factors including current age, age at disease onset, EDSS score, disease duration, relapse rate, and education level affect the severity of CI.

Results

The scores on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test and Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System were the most and least affected, respectively. EDSS score (r=0.438, p<0.001), current age (r=0.393, p<0.001), and disease duration (r=0.486, p<0.001) were positively correlated with CI severity, whereas education level (r=−0.527, p<0.001) had a negative correlation with CI severity, and age at disease onset and relapse rate were not correlated with CI severity (r=0.150 and p=0.107, and r=0.052 and p=0.530, respectively). However, all variables (except EDSS score) significantly predicted CI severity in a multiple regression model (p<0.001, r=0.668).

Conclusions

Information processing speed and working memory were the most commonly affected cognitive domains in the present MS patients. CI severity had strong positive correlations with current age, EDSS score, and disease duration, and a negative correlation with education level. The relapse rate and age at disease onset were not correlated with CI severity.

Serum vitamin D level is associated with speed of processing in multiple sclerosis patients

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is often associated with low serum 25(OH)D levels, as well as cognitive dysfunctions. The relationship between 25(OH)D and the most commonly affected cognitive domain in MS; processing speed, is poorly explored. The purpose of this study is to: (1) assess the effect of serum 25(OH)D change on processing speed in MS, and (2) explore the relationship between serum 25(OH)D and brain volume changes in MS. A retrospective chart review was conducted, data from 299 patients were extracted (baseline), of whom 163 had follow-up measurements (after at least a 9-month interval). The Symbol Digits Modalities Test (SDMT) was used as a measure of processing speed. MRI data was available from 78 individuals at baseline, and 70 at follow-up. SDMT scores and brain volumes (Cerebellum (total, grey, and white), intracranial, Grey Matter (GM), and White Matter (WM)) were compared based on 25(OH)D levels and their changes towards follow-up. Results indicated that patients with deficient 25(OH)D levels had lower SDMT scores when compared to those with sufficient levels, and SDMT scores improved as a function of 25(OH)D. For MRI measures, only patients with sufficient 25(OH)D levels during both assessment periods had significant changes in intracranial and total cerebellum volumes. We conclude that 25(OH)D levels seem to have an effect on processing speed in MS, thus the importance of clinical monitoring and supplementation in this regard is reinforced.

Disease-modifying treatments and cognition in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Objective

Disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) are the gold standard for slowing disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS), but their effects on cognitive impairment, a key symptom of the disease, are mostly unknown. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the differential effects of DMTs on cognitive test performance in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS).

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies reporting longitudinal cognitive performance data related to all major DMTs. The standardized mean difference (Hedges g) between baseline and follow-up cognitive assessment was used as the main effect size measure.

Results

Forty-four studies, including 55 distinct MS patient samples, were found eligible for the systematic review. Twenty-five studies were related to platform therapies (mainly β-interferon [n = 17] and glatiramer acetate [n = 4]), whereas 22 studies were related to escalation therapies (mainly natalizumab [n = 14] and fingolimod [n = 6]). Reported data were mostly confined to the cognitive domain processing speed. A meta-analysis including 41 studies and 7,131 patients revealed a small to moderate positive effect on cognitive test performance of DMTs in general (g = 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.21–0.33]), but no statistically significant differences between platform (g = 0.27, 95% CI = [0.18–0.35]) and escalation therapies (g = 0.28, 95% CI = [0.19–0.37]) or between any single DMT and β-interferon.

Conclusions

DMTs are effective in improving cognitive test performance in RRMS, but a treatment escalation mainly to amend cognition is not supported by the current evidence. Given the multitude of DMTs and their widespread use, the available data regarding differential treatment effects on cognitive impairment are remarkably scant. Clinical drug trials that use more extensive cognitive outcome measures are urgently needed.

Safety and efficacy of ozanimod versus interferon beta-1a in relapsing multiple sclerosis (SUNBEAM): a multicentre, randomised, minimum 12-month, phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

Ozanimod, a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator, selectively binds to receptor subtypes 1 and 5 with high affinity. The RADIANCE phase 2 study showed that ozanimod had better efficacy than placebo on MRI measures, with a favourable safety profile, in participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis. The SUNBEAM study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of ozanimod versus intramuscular interferon beta-1a in participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis.

METHODS

SUNBEAM was a randomised, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled phase 3 trial done at 152 academic medical centres and clinical practices in 20 countries. We enrolled participants aged 18-55 years with relapsing multiple sclerosis, baseline expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score of 0·0-5·0, and either at least one relapse within the 12 months before screening or at least one relapse within 24 months plus at least one gadolinium-enhancing lesion within 12 months before screening. Participants were randomly assigned 1:1:1 by a blocked algorithm stratified by country and baseline EDSS score to at least 12 months treatment of either once-daily oral ozanimod 1·0 mg or 0·5 mg or weekly intramuscular interferon beta-1a 30 μg. Participants, investigators, and study staff were masked to treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was annualised relapse rate (ARR) during the treatment period and was assessed in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was assessed in all participants according to the highest dose of ozanimod received. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02294058 and EudraCT, number 2014-002320-27.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 18, 2014, and Nov 12, 2015, 1346 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to ozanimod 1·0 mg (n=447), ozanimod 0·5 mg (n=451), or interferon beta-1a (n=448). 91 (6·8%) participants discontinued the study drug (29 in the ozanimod 1·0 mg group; 26 in the ozanimod 0·5 mg group; and 36 in the interferon beta-1a group). Adjusted ARRs were 0·35 (0·28-0·44) for interferon beta-1a, 0·18 (95% CI 0·14-0·24) for ozanimod 1·0 mg (rate ratio [RR] of 0·52 [0·41-0·66] vs interferon beta-1a; p<0·0001), and 0·24 (0·19-0·31) for ozanimod 0·5 mg (RR 0·69 [0·55-0·86] vs interferon beta-1a; p=0·0013). Few ozanimod-treated participants discontinued treatment because of adverse events (13 [2·9%] who received ozanimod 1·0 mg; seven [1·5%] who received ozanimod 0·5 mg; and 16 [3·6%] who received interferon beta-1a). No first-dose, clinically significant bradycardia or second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular block was reported. The incidence of serious adverse events was low and similar across treatment groups (13 [2·9%] participants who received ozanimod 1·0 mg; 16 [3·5%] who received ozanimod 0·5 mg; and 11 [2·5%] who received interferon beta-1a). No serious opportunistic infections occurred in ozanimod-treated participants.

INTERPRETATION

In participants with relapsing multiple sclerosis treated for at least 12 months, ozanimod was well tolerated and demonstrated a significantly lower relapse rate than interferon beta-1a. These findings provide support for ozanimod as an oral therapy for individuals with relapsing multiple sclerosis.

FUNDING

Celgene International II.

Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Therapies of Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the most important clinical features of neurodegenerative disorders including multiple sclerosis (MS). Conducted research shows that up to 65 percent of MS patients have cognitive deficits such as episodic memory, sustained attention, reduced verbal fluency; however, the cognitive MS domain is information processing speed. It is the first syndrome of cognitive dysfunction and the most widely affected in MS. Occasionally these impairments occur even before the appearance of physical symptoms.

Methods

Therefore, this review focused on the current status of our knowledge about possible methods of treatment cognitive impairment in MS patients including novel strategies. Research and online content was performed using Medline and EMBASE databases.

Results

The most recent research suggests that cognitive impairment is correlated with brain lesion volume and brain atrophy. The examination of the cognitive impairment is usually based on particular neuropsychological batteries. However, it can be not enough to make a precise diagnosis. This creates a demand to find markers that might be useful for identifying patients with risk of cognitive impairment at an early stage of the disease. Currently the most promising methods consist of neuroimaging indicators, such as diffusion tensor imaging, the magnetization transfer ratio, and N-acetyl aspartate levels. Diagnosis problems are strictly connected with treatment procedures. There are two main cognitive therapies: pharmacological (disease modifying drugs (DMD), symptomatic treatments) and non-pharmacological interventions that are focused on psychological and physical rehabilitation. Some trials have shown a positive association between physical activity and the cognitive function.

Conclusion

This article is an overview of the current state of knowledge related to cognition impairment treatment in MS. Additionally, novel strategies for cognitive impairments such as cryostimulation and other complementary methods are presented.

Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis - a review of current knowledge and recent research

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease of the central nervous system that is characterised by inflammatory damage to the myelin sheath. Though often neglected, cognitive impairment is a common feature of MS that affects 43-70% of patients. It has a sophisticated neuroanatomic and pathophysiologic background and disturbs such vital cognitive domains as speed of information processing, memory, attention, executive functions and visual perceptual functions. In recent years there has been growing interest in neuroimaging findings with regard to cognitive impairment in MS. The possible options of managing cognitive dysfunction in MS are pharmacologic interventions, cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training; however, not enough evidence has been presented in this field. The aim of our article is to provide current knowledge on cognitive impairment in MS based on the most recent scientific results and conclusions with regard to affected cognitive domains, neuropsychological assessment, underlying mechanisms of this disturbance, neuroimaging findings and therapeutic options.

Advances in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: the role of pegylated interferon β-1a

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease with unpredictable phases of relapse and remission. The cause of MS is unknown, but the pathology is characterized by infiltration of auto-reactive immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS) resulting in widespread neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Immunomodulatory-based therapies emerged in the 1990s and have been a cornerstone of disease management ever since. Interferon β (IFNβ) was the first biologic approved after demonstrating decreased relapse rates, disease activity and progression of disability in clinical trials. However, frequent dosing schedules have limited patient acceptance for long-term therapy. Pegylation, the process by which molecules of polyethylene glycol are covalently linked to a compound, has been utilized to increase the half-life of IFNβ and decrease the frequency of administration required. To date, there has been one clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of pegylated IFN. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the role of IFN in the treatment of MS and evaluate the available evidence for pegylated IFN therapy in MS.