1
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Kimura A. [Clinical features and pathogenesis of Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) antibody-associated disorders]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2024; 64:75-84. [PMID: 38281748 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) antibody-associated disorders (AD) were recently proposed to be immune-mediated neurological disorders. The pathogenesis of GFAP antibody-AD is poorly understood. Pathologically, there is a marked infiltration of large numbers of lymphocytes, including CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, into the meningeal and brain parenchyma, especially around the perivascular areas. GFAP-specific cytotoxic T cells are considered to be the effector cells of GFAP antibody-AD. The common phenotype of GFAP antibody-AD includes meningoencephalitis with or without myelitis. During the clinical disease course, patients present with consciousness disturbances, urinary dysfunction, movement disorders, meningeal irritation, and cognitive dysfunction. The detection of GFAP antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by cell-based assay is essential for a diagnosis of GFAP antibody-AD. The CSF can be examined for lymphocyte-predominant pleocytosis and elevated protein levels. Brain linear perivascular radial enhancement patterns are observed in about half of GFAP antibody-AD patients. Spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging is used to detect longitudinal extensive spinal cord lesions. Although corticosteroid therapy is generally effective, some patients have a poor prognosis and relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akio Kimura
- Department of Neurology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine
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2
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Jiang Y, Li Y, Chen X, Zhai R, Peng Y, Tai R, Zhou C, Wang J. Biomarkers and Tourette syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1262057. [PMID: 38385037 PMCID: PMC10879287 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1262057] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This research aims to investigate whether peripheral biomarkers might differentiate individuals with Tourette syndrome (TS) from those without the condition. Methods A broad range of databases was searched through November 2022. This study employed a systematic literature review and subsequent meta-analysis of case-control studies that assessed the aberration of biomarkers of patients with TS and controls. Results A total of 81 studies were identified, out of which 60 met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Following a meticulous screening procedure to determine the feasibility of incorporating case-control studies into the meta-analysis, 13 comparisons were statistically significant [CD3+ T cell, CD4+ T cell, CD4+ T cell to CD8+ T cell ratio, NK-cell, anti-streptolysin O antibodies, anti-DNase antibodies, glutamic acid (Glu), aspartic acid (Asp), ferritin (Fe), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), vitamin D, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)]. Publication bias was found for anti-streptolysin O antibodies. Suggestive associations were evidenced for norsalsolinol (NSAL), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and S100B. Conclusion In this study, we present empirical evidence substantiating the link between several peripheral biomarkers and the early diagnosis of TS. Larger and more standardized studies are necessary to replicate the observed results, elucidate the specificity of the biomarkers for TS, and evaluate their precision for use in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Junhong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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3
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Fang J, Tong Z, Lu W. Case Report: Need for Caution in the Diagnosis of GFAP Astrocytopathy—A Case of GFAP Astrocytopathy Coexistent With Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma. Front Neurol 2022; 13:806224. [PMID: 35153997 PMCID: PMC8831885 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.806224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We reported a case of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) coexistent with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy, and discussed the problems needing attention in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of GFAP astrocytopathy. Our patient was a 51-year-old female who presented with somnolence for a month, and memory declination for 10 days. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multiple abnormal enhancement lesions in bilateral basal ganglia and around the third ventricle, as well as transient T2-weighted hyper-intensity lesions at the splenium of the corpus callosum during the course of the disease. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was positive for anti-GFAP antibodies by antigen-transfected HEK293 cell-based assay (indirect immunofluorescence assay). She was initially diagnosed with autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. After treatment with corticosteroids for about 2 months, she displayed poor response and even worsened clinical manifestations when the dose of prednisone reduced to 45 mg. Stereotactic brain biopsy was adopted and the diagnosis of large B-cell lymphoma, non-germinal center type was established on pathological examination. The results of brain biopsy also showed perivascular inflammation and CD8+ T cell infiltration, which also accorded with GFAP astrocytopathy. After chemotherapy with rituximab and methotrexate, the patient showed clinical and radiological improvement significantly. Our findings suggest that positivity of GFAP antibody calls for cautious interpretation. Cancer screening appropriate for age, sex, and risk factors is recommended for GFAP antibody-positive patients, especially for patients with atypical clinical and radiologic manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Fang
- Department of Neurology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhongyi Tong
- Department of Pathology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Neurology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Lu
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4
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Lamothe H, Tamouza R, Hartmann A, Mallet L. Immunity and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence for immune implications in Tourette syndrome. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:3187-3200. [PMID: 34133837 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The neurobiology of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is known to involve corticostriatal loops possibly under genetic control. Less is known about possible environmental triggers of GTS. Specifically, immune-related events following possible environmental inducers have been evoked, but important controversies still exist. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we looked for evidence in favor of such possibilities. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all immunological data in PubMed. RESULTS We found large discrepancies concerning immune dysfunctions in GTS, and meta-analyzing cytokines data did not allow us to conclude there is an involvement of specific cytokines in GTS neurobiology. When looking specifically at pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus/pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome, we found some important evidence of a possible infectious involvement but in a limited number of studies. Our meta-analysis found an increased level of anti-streptolysin O antibodies in GTS patients, but the level of anti-DNase B antibodies was not increased. CONCLUSIONS Too many questions still exist to allow us to definitively reach the conclusion that there is an infectious and immunological etiology in GTS. Much work is still needed to elucidate the possible role of immunology in GTS neurobiology and to favor immunological treatment rather than classical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Lamothe
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor-Albert Chenevier, Paris-East Créteil University, Créteil, France.,Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Ryad Tamouza
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor-Albert Chenevier, Paris-East Créteil University, Créteil, France.,Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédical, Paris-East Créteil University, Team "Psychiatrie Translationnelle, INSERM U955, Créteil, France
| | - Andreas Hartmann
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne University, Paris, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de la Pitié Salpétrière, Paris, France
| | - Luc Mallet
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor-Albert Chenevier, Paris-East Créteil University, Créteil, France.,Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne University, Paris, France.,Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Global Health Institute, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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5
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Mazón-Cabrera R, Vandormael P, Somers V. Antigenic Targets of Patient and Maternal Autoantibodies in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1474. [PMID: 31379804 PMCID: PMC6659315 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose behavioral symptoms become apparent in early childhood. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are only partially understood and the clinical manifestations are heterogeneous in nature, which poses a major challenge for diagnosis, prognosis and intervention. In the last years, an important role of a dysregulated immune system in ASD has emerged, but the mechanisms connecting this to a disruption of brain development are still largely unknown. Although ASD is not considered as a typical autoimmune disease, self-reactive antibodies or autoantibodies against a wide variety of targets have been found in a subset of ASD patients. In addition, autoantibodies reactive to fetal brain proteins have also been described in the prenatal stage of neurodevelopment, where they can be transferred from the mother to the fetus by transplacental transport. In this review, we give an extensive overview of the antibodies described in ASD according to their target antigens, their different origins, and timing of exposure during neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Veerle Somers
- Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Science, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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6
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Flanagan EP, Hinson SR, Lennon VA, Fang B, Aksamit AJ, Morris PP, Basal E, Honorat JA, Alfugham NB, Linnoila JJ, Weinshenker BG, Pittock SJ, McKeon A. Glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoglobulin G as biomarker of autoimmune astrocytopathy: Analysis of 102 patients. Ann Neurol 2017; 81:298-309. [PMID: 28120349 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 340] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A novel autoimmune central nervous system (CNS) disorder with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-IgG as biomarker was recently characterized. Here, 102 patients with GFAP-IgG positivity are described. METHODS The 102 included patients had: (1) serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or both that yielded a characteristic astrocytic pattern of mouse tissue immunostaining; (2) confirmation of IgG reactive with specific GFAP isoforms (α, ɛ, or κ) by cell-based assays; and (3) clinical data available. Control specimens (n = 865) were evaluated by tissue (n = 542) and cell-based (n = 323) assays. RESULTS Median symptom onset age was 44 years (range = 8-103), and 54% were women. The predominant phenotype (83 patients; 81%) was inflammation of meninges, brain, spinal cord, or all 3 (meningoencephalomyelitis). Among patients, highest specificity for those phenotypes was observed for CSF testing (94%), and highest sensitivity was for the GFAPα isoform (100%). Rare GFAP-IgG positivity was encountered in serum controls by tissue-based assay (0.5%) or cell-based assay (1.5%), and in CSF controls by cell-based assay (0.9%). Among patients, striking perivascular radial enhancement was found on brain magnetic resonance imaging in 53%. Although cases frequently mimicked vasculitis, angiography was uniformly negative, and spinal imaging frequently demonstrated longitudinally extensive myelitic lesions. Diverse neoplasms encountered were found prospectively in 22%. Ovarian teratoma was most common and was predicted best when both N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-IgG and aquaporin-4-IgG coexisted (71%). Six patients with prolonged follow-up had brisk corticosteroid response, but required additional immunosuppression to overcome steroid dependency. INTERPRETATION GFAPα-IgG, when detected in CSF, is highly specific for an immunotherapy-responsive autoimmune CNS disorder, sometimes with paraneoplastic cause. Ann Neurol 2017;81:298-309.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eoin P Flanagan
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Shannon R Hinson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Vanda A Lennon
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Immunology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Boyan Fang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Allen J Aksamit
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - P Pearse Morris
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Eati Basal
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Josephe A Honorat
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Nora B Alfugham
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Jenny J Linnoila
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Brian G Weinshenker
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Sean J Pittock
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Andrew McKeon
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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7
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Wang J, Zou Q, Han R, Li Y, Wang Y. Serum levels of Glial fibrillary acidic protein in Chinese children with autism spectrum disorders. Int J Dev Neurosci 2017; 57:41-45. [PMID: 28088366 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) has been studied in many neurological diseases. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential role of GFAP in Chinese children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by measuring serum circulating levels of GFAP and comparing them with age and gender-matched typical development children. METHODS A total of one hundred and fifty 2-6 years old Chinese children (75 confirmed autism cases and 75 their age-gender matched typical development children) participated in this study. Serum levels of GFAP were assayed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods, and severity of ASD was evaluated with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) Score. RESULTS The results indicated that the mean serum GFAP level was significantly (P<0.001) higher in autistic children as compared to controls (1.71±0.53ng/ml vs. 0.99±0.25ng/ml). There was a significant positive association between serum GFAP levels and CARS scores (r [Pearson]=0.390, P=0.001). Based on the Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the optimal cut-off value of serum GFAP levels as an indicator for auxiliary diagnosis of autism was projected to be 1.28ng/ml which yielded a sensitivity of 77.3% and a specificity of 88.4%, the area under the curve was 0.895(95%CI, 0.844-0.947). Further, an increased risk of ASD was associated with GFAP levels >1.28ng/ml (adjusted OR 9.88, 95% CI: 3.32-17.82) in the multivariate logistic analysis model. CONCLUSION The data indicates that serum GFAP levels may be associated with severity of ASD among Chinese children, suggesting the hypothesis that increased serum levels of GFAP could be implicated in the pathophysiology of autism in Chinese children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China; Department of Pediatrics, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264001, China
| | - Qiuyan Zou
- Department of Children's Health Prevention, Zhangjiagang Women and Children Health Center, Zhangjiagang 215600, China
| | - Renfeng Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai 264001, China
| | - Yupeng Li
- Department of Pediatrics, People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao 276500, China
| | - Yulin Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China.
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8
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Cetin I, Tezdig I, Tarakcioglu MC, Kadak MT, Demirel OF, Ozer OF. Serum levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein and Nogo-A in children with autism spectrum disorders. Biomarkers 2016; 21:614-8. [DOI: 10.3109/1354750x.2016.1171901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ihsan Cetin
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health, Batman University, Batman, Turkey
| | - Ihsan Tezdig
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Science, Batman University, Batman, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Cem Tarakcioglu
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bakirköy Dr Sadi Konuk Training and Educatin Hospital, Istanbul University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Muhammed Tayyib Kadak
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Omer Faruk Demirel
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Omer Faruk Ozer
- Department of Biochemistry, BezmiAlem Vakif University, İstanbul, Turkey
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9
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Nespoli E, Rizzo F, Boeckers TM, Hengerer B, Ludolph AG. Addressing the Complexity of Tourette's Syndrome through the Use of Animal Models. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:133. [PMID: 27092043 PMCID: PMC4824761 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tourette's syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by fluctuating motor and vocal tics, usually preceded by sensory premonitions, called premonitory urges. Besides tics, the vast majority—up to 90%—of TS patients suffer from psychiatric comorbidities, mainly attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The etiology of TS remains elusive. Genetics is believed to play an important role, but it is clear that other factors contribute to TS, possibly altering brain functioning and architecture during a sensitive phase of neural development. Clinical brain imaging and genetic studies have contributed to elucidate TS pathophysiology and disease mechanisms; however, TS disease etiology still is poorly understood. Findings from genetic studies led to the development of genetic animal models, but they poorly reflect the pathophysiology of TS. Addressing the role of neurotransmission, brain regions, and brain circuits in TS disease pathomechanisms is another focus area for preclinical TS model development. We are now in an interesting moment in time when numerous innovative animal models are continuously brought to the attention of the public. Due to the diverse and largely unknown etiology of TS, there is no single preclinical model featuring all different aspects of TS symptomatology. TS has been dissected into its key symptomst hat have been investigated separately, in line with the Research Domain Criteria concept. The different rationales used to develop the respective animal models are critically reviewed, to discuss the potential of the contribution of animal models to elucidate TS disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Nespoli
- Competence in Neuro Spine Department, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KGBiberach an der Riss, Germany; Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University of UlmUlm, Germany
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University of UlmUlm, Germany; Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of UlmUlm, Germany
| | - Tobias M Boeckers
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Ulm Ulm, Germany
| | - Bastian Hengerer
- Competence in Neuro Spine Department, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Andrea G Ludolph
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University of Ulm Ulm, Germany
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10
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Kalra S, Burbelo PD, Bayat A, Ching KH, Thurm A, Iadarola MJ, Swedo SE. No Evidence of Antibodies against GAD65 and Other Specific Antigens in Children with Autism. BBA CLINICAL 2015; 4:81-84. [PMID: 26366376 PMCID: PMC4564997 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background The presence of autoantibodies has been proposed as evidence for a role of autoimmunity in autism. This report investigates the prevalence of autoantibodies in children with autism using the luciferase immunoprecipitation systems (LIPS) immunoassay technology. A panel of autoantibody targets against several known and candidate neurological autoantigens, autoimmune-associated autoantigens and viruses was employed. Methods Serological analysis was performed on typically developing children (n = 55), developmentally delayed children without autism (n = 24) and children diagnosed with autism (n = 104). Autoantibodies were measured against glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 (GAD65), a CNS autoantigen proposed to be associated with autism and against Ro52, glial fibrillary acidic protein, tyrosine hydroxylase, aquaporin-4, and gamma-enolase, the mouse mammary tumor virus and the xenotropic murine leukemia virus. Antibody levels and seropositivity prevalence were analyzed for statistically significant differences between the three groups. Results The majority of the children (98%) were seronegative for all targets in the antigen panel. No GAD65 seropositive children were detected in the cohort. Several low level seropositive sera against several of the protein targets were identified in isolated children in each of the three groups, but there was no difference in prevalence. Conclusion Using this panel of antigens and a sensitive, robust assay, no evidence of unusual immunoreactivity was detected in children with autism, providing evidence against a role of autoimmunity against several previously implicated proteins in autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis. General significance The idea that autoantibodies represent an underlying cause or are biomarkers for autism pathophysiology is not supported by this report.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Kalra
- Pediatrics and Developmental Branch, National Institutes of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Peter D Burbelo
- Dental Clinical Research Core, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Ahmad Bayat
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Kathryn H Ching
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Pediatrics and Developmental Branch, National Institutes of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Michael J Iadarola
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Susan E Swedo
- Pediatrics and Developmental Branch, National Institutes of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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11
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Hwang SR, Kim CY, Shin KM, Jo JH, Kim HA, Heo Y. Altered expression levels of neurodevelopmental proteins in fetal brains of BTBR T+tf/J mice with autism-like behavioral characteristics. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2015; 78:516-523. [PMID: 25849768 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1010466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a brain developmental disorder with characteristics of social interaction defects, language and communication dysfunction, and repetitive behavior. Occurrence of autism is continuously increasing, but the cause of autism is not clearly defined. Genetic linkage or environmental factors were proposed as sources for pathogenesis of autism. BTBR T+tf/J (BTBR) mice were reported as an appropriate animal model for autism investigation because of their similarities in behavioral abnormalities with human autistic subjects. The aim of this study was to evaluate expression levels of proteins involved with brain development at fetal stage of BTBR mice. FVB/NJ mice were used as a control strain because of their social behaviors. Level of fetal brain immunoglobulin (Ig) G deposit was also evaluated. Fetal brains were obtained at d 18 of gestational period. Thirty-one and 27 fetuses were obtained from 3 pregnant BTBR and FVB dams, respectively. The level of glial fibrillary acidic protein expression was significantly lower in fetal brains of BTBR than FVB/NJ mice. Expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and myelin basic protein was significantly more upregulated in BTBR than in FVB/NJ mice. No significant difference was obtained for nerve growth factor between the two strains. Levels of IgG isotypes deposited in fetal brain of BTBR mice were significantly higher than in FVB mice except for IgG1. Overall, these results suggest that prenatal alterations in expression of various fetal brain proteins may be implicated in aberrant behavioral characteristics of BTBR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Ryeon Hwang
- a Department of Occupational Health , College of Medical and Public Health Sciences, Catholic University of Daegu , Gyeongsan-si , Republic of Korea
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12
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Increased anti-phospholipid antibodies in autism spectrum disorders. Mediators Inflamm 2013; 2013:935608. [PMID: 24174712 PMCID: PMC3794552 DOI: 10.1155/2013/935608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in communication, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. While the etiology of ASD is complex and likely involves the interplay of genetic and environmental factors, growing evidence suggests that immune dysfunction and the presence of autoimmune responses including autoantibodies may play a role in ASD. Anti-phospholipid antibodies are believed to occur from both genetic and environmental factors and have been linked to a number of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as cognitive impairments, anxiety, and repetitive behaviors. In the current study, we investigated whether there were elevated levels of anti-phospholipid antibodies in a cross-sectional analysis of plasma of young children with ASD compared to age-matched typically developing (TD) controls and children with developmental delays (DD) other than ASD. We found that levels of anti-cardiolipin, β2-glycoprotein 1, and anti-phosphoserine antibodies were elevated in children with ASD compared with age-matched TD and DD controls. Further, the increase in antibody levels was associated with more impaired behaviors reported by parents. This study provides the first evidence for elevated production of anti-phospholipid antibodies in young children with ASD and provides a unique avenue for future research into determining possible pathogenic mechanisms that may underlie some cases of ASD.
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13
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Immune-mediated animal models of Tourette syndrome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2013; 37:1120-38. [PMID: 23313649 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
An autoimmune diathesis has been proposed in Tourette syndrome (TS) and related neuropsychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism and anorexia nervosa. Environmental triggers including infection and xenobiotics are hypothesized to lead to the production of brain-directed autoantibodies in a subset of genetically susceptible individuals. Although much work has focused on Group A Streptococcus (GAS), the role of this common childhood infection remains controversial. Animal model studies based on immune and autoantibody findings in TS have demonstrated immunoglobulin (Ig) deposits and stereotypic movements and related behavioral disturbances reminiscent of TS following exposure to GAS, other activators of host anti-microbial responses, soluble immune mediators and anti-GAS or anti-neuronal antibodies. Demonstration of the ability to recreate these abnormalities through passive transfer of serum IgG from GAS-immunized mice into naïve mice and abrogation of this activity through depletion of IgG has provided compelling evidence in support of the autoimmune hypothesis. Immunologically-based animal models of TS are a potent tool for dissecting the pathogenesis of this serious neuropsychiatric syndrome.
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Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex and heterogeneous with a spectrum of diverse symptoms. Mounting evidence from a number of disciplines suggests a link between immune function and ASD. Although the causes of ASD have yet to be identified, genetic studies have uncovered a host of candidate genes relating to immune regulation that are altered in ASD, while epidemiological studies have shown a relationship with maternal immune disturbances during pregnancy and ASD. Moreover, decades of research have identified numerous systemic and cellular immune abnormalities in individuals with ASD and their families. These include changes in immune cell number, differences in cytokine and chemokine production, and alterations of cellular function at rest and in response to immunological challenge. Many of these changes in immune responses are associated with increasing impairment in behaviors that are core features of ASD. Despite this evidence, much remains to be understood about the precise mechanism by which the immune system alters neurodevelopment and to what extent it is involved in the pathogenesis of ASD. With estimates of ASD as high as 1% of children, ASD is a major public health issue. Improvements in our understanding of the interactions between the nervous and immune system during early neurodevelopment and how this interaction is different in ASD will have important therapeutic implications with wide ranging benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milo Careaga
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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15
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Heo Y, Zhang Y, Gao D, Miller VM, Lawrence DA. Aberrant immune responses in a mouse with behavioral disorders. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20912. [PMID: 21799730 PMCID: PMC3140472 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BTBR T+tf/J (BTBR) mice have recently been reported to have behaviors that resemble those of autistic individuals, in that this strain has impairments in social interactions and a restricted repetitive and stereotyped pattern of behaviors. Since immune responses, including autoimmune responses, are known to affect behavior, and individuals with autism have aberrant immune activities, we evaluated the immune system of BTBR mice, and compared their immunity and degree of neuroinflammation with that of C57BL/6 (B6) mice, a highly social control strain, and with F1 offspring. Mice were assessed at postnatal day (pnd) 21 and after behavioral analysis at pnd70. BTBR mice had significantly higher amounts of serum IgG and IgE, of IgG anti-brain antibodies (Abs), and of IgG and IgE deposited in the brain, elevated expression of cytokines, especially IL-33 IL-18, and IL-1β in the brain, and an increased proportion of MHC class II-expressing microglia compared to B6 mice. The F1 mice had intermediate levels of Abs and cytokines as well as social activity. The high Ab levels of BTBR mice are in agreement with their increased numbers of CD40(hi)/I-A(hi) B cells and IgG-secreting B cells. Upon immunization with KLH, the BTBR mice produced 2-3 times more anti-KLH Abs than B6 mice. In contrast to humoral immunity, BTBR mice are significantly more susceptible to listeriosis than B6 or BALB/c mice. The Th2-like immune profile of the BTBR mice and their constitutive neuroinflammation suggests that an autoimmune profile is implicated in their aberrant behaviors, as has been suggested for some humans with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Heo
- College of Natural Sciences, Catholic University of Daegu, Kyongsan-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Yubin Zhang
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
- University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Donghong Gao
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Veronica M. Miller
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - David A. Lawrence
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
- University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, New York, United States of America
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16
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Wills S, Rossi CC, Bennett J, Martinez-Cerdeño V, Ashwood P, Amaral DG, Van de Water J. Further characterization of autoantibodies to GABAergic neurons in the central nervous system produced by a subset of children with autism. Mol Autism 2011; 2:5. [PMID: 21521495 PMCID: PMC3108923 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-2-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction and deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication, together with the presence of repetitive behaviors or a limited repertoire of activities and interests. The causes of autism are currently unclear. In a previous study, we determined that 21% of children with autism have plasma autoantibodies that are immunoreactive with a population of neurons in the cerebellum that appear to be Golgi cells, which are GABAergic interneurons. Methods We have extended this analysis by examining plasma immunoreactivity in the remainder of the brain. To determine cell specificity, double-labeling studies that included one of the calcium-binding proteins that are commonly colocalized in GABAergic neurons (calbindin, parvalbumin or calretinin) were also carried out to determine which GABAergic neurons are immunoreactive. Coronal sections through the rostrocaudal extent of the macaque monkey brain were reacted with plasma from each of seven individuals with autism who had previously demonstrated positive Golgi cell staining, as well as six negative controls. In addition, brain sections from adult male mice were similarly examined. Results In each case, specific staining was observed for neurons that had the morphological appearance of interneurons. By double-labeling sections with plasma and with antibodies directed against γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), we determined that all autoantibody-positive neurons were GABAergic. However, not all GABAergic neurons were autoantibody-positive. Calbindin was colabeled in several of the autoantibody-labeled cells, while parvalbumin colabeling was less frequently observed. Autoantibody-positive cells rarely expressed calretinin. Sections from the mouse brain processed similarly to the primate sections also demonstrated immunoreactivity to interneurons distributed throughout the neocortex and many subcortical regions. Some cell populations stained in the primate (such as the Golgi neurons in the cerebellum) were not as robustly immunoreactive in the mouse brain. Conclusions These results suggest that the earlier report of autoantibody immunoreactivity to specific cells in the cerebellum extend to other regions of the brain. Further, these findings confirm the autoantibody-targeted cells to be a subpopulation of GABAergic interneurons. The potential impact of these autoantibodies on GABAergic disruption with respect to the etiology of autism is discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharifia Wills
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510 GBSF, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,NIEHS Center for Children's Environmental Health, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Christy C Rossi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Jeffrey Bennett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Veronica Martinez-Cerdeño
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA.,NIEHS Center for Children's Environmental Health, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - David G Amaral
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510 GBSF, Davis, CA 95616, USA.,The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA.,NIEHS Center for Children's Environmental Health, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Careaga M, Van de Water J, Ashwood P. Immune dysfunction in autism: a pathway to treatment. Neurotherapeutics 2010; 7:283-92. [PMID: 20643381 PMCID: PMC5084232 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2010.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Revised: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 05/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a complex and clinically heterogeneous disorder with a spectrum of symptoms. Clinicians, schools, and service agencies worldwide have reported a dramatic increase in the number of children identified with autism. Despite expanding research, the etiology and underlying biological processes of autism remain poorly understood, and the relative contribution from genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors remains unclear. Although autism affects primarily brain function (especially affect, social functioning, and cognition), it is unknown to what extent other organs and systems are disrupted. Published findings have identified widespread changes in the immune systems of children with autism, at both systemic and cellular levels. Brain specimens from autism subjects exhibit signs of active, ongoing inflammation, as well as alterations in gene pathways associated with immune signaling and immune function. Moreover, many genetic studies have indicated a link between autism and genes that are relevant to both the nervous system and the immune system. Alterations in these pathways can affect function in both systems. Together, these reports suggest that autism may in fact be a systemic disorder with connections to abnormal immune responses. Such immune system dysfunction may represent novel targets for treatment. A better understanding of the involvement of the immune response in autism, and of how early brain development is altered, may have important therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milo Careaga
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California at Davis, 95817 Sacramento, California
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, 2805 50th Street, 95817 Sacramento, CA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, 95817 Sacramento, California
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California at Davis, 95817 Sacramento, California
- M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, 2805 50th Street, 95817 Sacramento, CA
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18
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Libbey JE, Coon HH, Kirkman NJ, Sweeten TL, Miller JN, Stevenson EK, Lainhart JE, McMahon WM, Fujinami RS. Are there enhanced MBP autoantibodies in autism? J Autism Dev Disord 2007; 38:324-32. [PMID: 17588145 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-007-0400-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2007] [Accepted: 05/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Autoantibodies to central nervous system antigens, such as myelin basic protein (MBP), may play a role in autism. We measured autoantibody titers to MBP in children with autism, both classic onset and regressive onset forms, controls (healthy age- and gender-matched) and individuals with Tourette syndrome via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. We found a significant difference in autoantibody titers to MBP, not accounted for by age or medication, between Tourette and classic autism (both significantly lower) when compared to regressive autism, but not when compared to controls. Autoantibody responses against MBP are unlikely to play a pathogenic role in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Libbey
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, 30 North 1900 East, 3R330 SOM, Salt Lake City, UT 84132-2305, USA
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