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Rudaks LI, Yeow D, Ng K, Deveson IW, Kennerson ML, Kumar KR. An Update on the Adult-Onset Hereditary Cerebellar Ataxias: Novel Genetic Causes and New Diagnostic Approaches. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024:10.1007/s12311-024-01703-z. [PMID: 38760634 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-024-01703-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
The hereditary cerebellar ataxias (HCAs) are rare, progressive neurologic disorders caused by variants in many different genes. Inheritance may follow autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked or mitochondrial patterns. The list of genes associated with adult-onset cerebellar ataxia is continuously growing, with several new genes discovered in the last few years. This includes short-tandem repeat (STR) expansions in RFC1, causing cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS), FGF14-GAA causing spinocerebellar ataxia type 27B (SCA27B), and THAP11. In addition, the genetic basis for SCA4, has recently been identified as a STR expansion in ZFHX3. Given the large and growing number of genes, and different gene variant types, the approach to diagnostic testing for adult-onset HCA can be complex. Testing methods include targeted evaluation of STR expansions (e.g. SCAs, Friedreich ataxia, fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy), next generation sequencing for conventional variants, which may include targeted gene panels, whole exome, or whole genome sequencing, followed by various potential additional tests. This review proposes a diagnostic approach for clinical testing, highlights the challenges with current testing technologies, and discusses future advances which may overcome these limitations. Implementing long-read sequencing has the potential to transform the diagnostic approach in HCA, with the overall aim to improve the diagnostic yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ivete Rudaks
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory and Neurology Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia.
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Dennis Yeow
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory and Neurology Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Neurodegenerative Service, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karl Ng
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Neurology Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ira W Deveson
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marina L Kennerson
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory and Neurology Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The Northcott Neuroscience Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kishore Raj Kumar
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory and Neurology Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Campus, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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2
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Perlman SL. CRPD frontiers in movement disorders Therapeutics: From evidence to treatment and applications: Addressing Patients' Needs in the Management of the Ataxias. Clin Park Relat Disord 2024; 10:100255. [PMID: 38798918 PMCID: PMC11126860 DOI: 10.1016/j.prdoa.2024.100255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The genetic ataxias have no cures and no proven ways to delay progression (no disease-modifying therapies). The acquired ataxias may have treatments that address the underlying cause and may slow or stop progression, but will not reverse damage already sustained. The idiopathic ataxias (of unknown genetic or acquired cause) also have no proven disease-modifying therapies. However, for all patients with ataxia of any cause, there is always something that can be done to improve quality of life-treat associated symptoms, provide information and resources, counsel patient and family, help with insurance and disability concerns, be available to listen and answer the many questions they will have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L. Perlman
- Department of Neurology David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Health Sciences 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite B200 Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
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3
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Cascajo-Almenara MV, Juliá-Palacios N, Urreizti R, Sánchez-Cuesta A, Fernández-Ayala DM, García-Díaz E, Oliva C, O Callaghan MDM, Paredes-Fuentes AJ, Moreno-Lozano PJ, Muchart J, Nascimento A, Ortez CI, Natera-de Benito D, Pineda M, Rivera N, Fortuna TR, Rajan DS, Navas P, Salviati L, Palau F, Yubero D, García-Cazorla A, Pandey UB, Santos-Ocaña C, Artuch R. Mutations of GEMIN5 are associated with coenzyme Q 10 deficiency: long-term follow-up after treatment. Eur J Hum Genet 2024; 32:426-434. [PMID: 38316953 PMCID: PMC10999423 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01526-2] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
GEMIN5 exerts key biological functions regulating pre-mRNAs intron removal to generate mature mRNAs. A series of patients were reported harboring mutations in GEMIN5. No treatments are currently available for this disease. We treated two of these patients with oral Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which resulted in neurological improvements, although MRI abnormalities remained. Whole Exome Sequencing demonstrated compound heterozygosity at the GEMIN5 gene in both cases: Case one: p.Lys742* and p.Arg1016Cys; Case two: p.Arg1016Cys and p.Ser411Hisfs*6. Functional studies in fibroblasts revealed a decrease in CoQ10 biosynthesis compared to controls. Supplementation with exogenous CoQ10 restored it to control intracellular CoQ10 levels. Mitochondrial function was compromised, as indicated by the decrease in oxygen consumption, restored by CoQ10 supplementation. Transcriptomic analysis of GEMIN5 patients compared with controls showed general repression of genes involved in CoQ10 biosynthesis. In the rigor mortis defective flies, CoQ10 levels were decreased, and CoQ10 supplementation led to an improvement in the adult climbing assay performance, a reduction in the number of motionless flies, and partial restoration of survival. Overall, we report the association between GEMIN5 dysfunction and CoQ10 deficiency for the first time. This association opens the possibility of oral CoQ10 therapy, which is safe and has no observed side effects after long-term therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marivi V Cascajo-Almenara
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalia Juliá-Palacios
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Urreizti
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Sánchez-Cuesta
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel M Fernández-Ayala
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena García-Díaz
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Clara Oliva
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Del Mar O Callaghan
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Abraham J Paredes-Fuentes
- Division of Inborn Errors of Metabolism-IBC, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro J Moreno-Lozano
- Internal Medicine Department, Clinic Hospital and University of Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Muchart
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andres Nascimento
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos I Ortez
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Natera-de Benito
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercedes Pineda
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noelia Rivera
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tyler R Fortuna
- Department of Pediatrics, Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh and Children's Neuroscience Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 15224, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Deepa S Rajan
- Department of Pediatrics, Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh and Children's Neuroscience Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 15224, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Plácido Navas
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Leonardo Salviati
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Women and Children's Health, Padua University, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesc Palau
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
- Division of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Delia Yubero
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angels García-Cazorla
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Udai Bhan Pandey
- Department of Pediatrics, Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh and Children's Neuroscience Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 15224, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Carlos Santos-Ocaña
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu. Clinical Biochemistry, Paediatric Neurology, Radiology and Genetics Departments, 08950, Barcelona, Spain.
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Tremblay M, Brais B, Asselin V, Buffet M, Girard A, Girard D, Berbiche D, Gagnon C. The Development of a New Patient-Reported Outcome Measure in Recessive Ataxias: The Person-Reported Ataxia Impact Scale. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:512-522. [PMID: 37165279 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01565-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCAs) are inherited neurological disorders that can affect both the central and peripheral nervous systems. To assess the effects of interventions according to the perception of people affected, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) must be available. This paper presents the development process of the Person-Reported Ataxia Impact Scale (PRAIS), a new PROM in recessive ataxias, and the documentation of its content validity, interpretability, and construct validity (structural and discriminant). The development followed the PROMIS framework and the Food and Drug Administration guidelines. A mixed-method study design was used to develop the PROM. A systematic review of the literature, semistructured interviews, and discussion groups was conducted to constitute an item pool. Experts' consultation helped formulate items, and the questionnaire was sent online to be completed by people affected. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the structural and discriminant validity. A total of 125 people affected by recessive ataxia completed the questionnaire. The factor analysis confirmed the three components: physical functions and activities, mental functions, and social functions. The statistical analysis showed that it can discriminate between stages of mobility and level of autonomy. It showed very good levels of internal consistency (0.79 to 0.89). The Person-Reported Ataxia Impact Scale (PRAIS) is a 38-item questionnaire that assesses the manifestations and impacts of the disease according to the perception of people affected by recessive ataxia. It can be used in clinical and research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolaine Tremblay
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada.
- Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Bd de l'Université, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada.
| | - Bernard Brais
- McGill University, 845 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC, H3A 0G4, Canada
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Véronique Asselin
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada
| | - Martin Buffet
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada
| | - André Girard
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada
| | - Denis Girard
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada
| | - Djamal Berbiche
- Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Bd de l'Université, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
- Centre de Recherche Charles-Lemoyne, 150, Place Charles-Le Moyne Bureau 200, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada
| | - Cynthia Gagnon
- Groupe de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Sur Les Maladies Neuromusculaires, 2230 de L'Hôpital Cp 1200, Jonquière, QC, G7X 7X2, Canada
- Université de Sherbrooke, 2500 Bd de l'Université, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, 3001, 12e Avenue Nord, Aile 9, Porte 6, Sherbrooke, Québec, J1H 5N4, Canada
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5
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Lopergolo D, Rosini F, Pretegiani E, Bargagli A, Serchi V, Rufa A. Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias: a diagnostic classification approach according to ocular features. Front Integr Neurosci 2024; 17:1275794. [PMID: 38390227 PMCID: PMC10883068 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2023.1275794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCAs) are a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders affecting primarily the cerebellum and/or its afferent tracts, often accompanied by damage of other neurological or extra-neurological systems. Due to the overlap of clinical presentation among ARCAs and the variety of hereditary, acquired, and reversible etiologies that can determine cerebellar dysfunction, the differential diagnosis is challenging, but also urgent considering the ongoing development of promising target therapies. The examination of afferent and efferent visual system may provide neurophysiological and structural information related to cerebellar dysfunction and neurodegeneration thus allowing a possible diagnostic classification approach according to ocular features. While optic coherence tomography (OCT) is applied for the parametrization of the optic nerve and macular area, the eye movements analysis relies on a wide range of eye-tracker devices and the application of machine-learning techniques. We discuss the results of clinical and eye-tracking oculomotor examination, the OCT findings and some advancing of computer science in ARCAs thus providing evidence sustaining the identification of robust eye parameters as possible markers of ARCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Lopergolo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- UOC Neurologia e Malattie Neurometaboliche, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Rosini
- UOC Stroke Unit, Department of Emergenza-Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Elena Pretegiani
- Unit of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudoise Lausanne, Unit of Neurology and Cognitive Neurorehabilitation, Universitary Hospital of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Alessia Bargagli
- Evalab-Neurosense, Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Valeria Serchi
- Evalab-Neurosense, Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Rufa
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- UOC Neurologia e Malattie Neurometaboliche, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
- Evalab-Neurosense, Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Dratch L, Azage M, Baldwin A, Johnson K, Paul RA, Bardakjian TM, Michon SC, Amado DA, Baer M, Deik AF, Elman LB, Gonzalez-Alegre P, Guo MH, Hamedani AG, Irwin DJ, Lasker A, Orthmann-Murphy J, Quinn C, Tropea TF, Scherer SS, Ellis CA. Genetic testing in adults with neurologic disorders: indications, approach, and clinical impacts. J Neurol 2024; 271:733-747. [PMID: 37891417 PMCID: PMC11095966 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12058-6] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The role of genetic testing in neurologic clinical practice has increased dramatically in recent years, driven by research on genetic causes of neurologic disease and increased availability of genetic sequencing technology. Genetic testing is now indicated for adults with a wide range of common neurologic conditions. The potential clinical impacts of a genetic diagnosis are also rapidly expanding, with a growing list of gene-specific treatments and clinical trials, in addition to important implications for prognosis, surveillance, family planning, and diagnostic closure. The goals of this review are to provide practical guidance for clinicians about the role of genetics in their practice and to provide the neuroscience research community with a broad survey of current progress in this field. We aim to answer three questions for the neurologist in practice: Which of my patients need genetic testing? What testing should I order? And how will genetic testing help my patient? We focus on common neurologic disorders and presentations to the neurology clinic. For each condition, we review the most current guidelines and evidence regarding indications for genetic testing, expected diagnostic yield, and recommended testing approach. We also focus on clinical impacts of genetic diagnoses, highlighting a number of gene-specific therapies recently approved for clinical use, and a rapidly expanding landscape of gene-specific clinical trials, many using novel nucleotide-based therapeutic modalities like antisense oligonucleotides and gene transfer. We anticipate that more widespread use of genetic testing will help advance therapeutic development and improve the care, and outcomes, of patients with neurologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laynie Dratch
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Meron Azage
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Aaron Baldwin
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Kelsey Johnson
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Rachel A Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tanya M Bardakjian
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Sarepta Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Sara-Claude Michon
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Defne A Amado
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Michael Baer
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Andres F Deik
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lauren B Elman
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Pedro Gonzalez-Alegre
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Spark Therapeutics Inc, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Michael H Guo
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ali G Hamedani
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David J Irwin
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Aaron Lasker
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jennifer Orthmann-Murphy
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Colin Quinn
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Thomas F Tropea
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Steven S Scherer
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Colin A Ellis
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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7
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Stee K, Van Poucke M, Lowrie M, Van Ham L, Peelman L, Olby N, Bhatti SF. Phenotypic and genetic aspects of hereditary ataxia in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2023; 37:1306-1322. [PMID: 37341581 PMCID: PMC10365067 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16742] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary ataxias are a large group of neurodegenerative diseases that have cerebellar or spinocerebellar dysfunction as core feature, occurring as an isolated sign or as part of a syndrome. Based on neuropathology, this group of diseases has so far been classified into cerebellar cortical degenerations, spinocerebellar degenerations, cerebellar ataxias without substantial neurodegeneration, canine multiple system degeneration, and episodic ataxia. Several new hereditary ataxia syndromes are described, but most of these diseases have similar clinical signs and unspecific diagnostic findings, wherefore achieving a definitive diagnosis in these dogs is challenging. Eighteen new genetic variants associated with these diseases have been discovered in the last decade, allowing clinicians to reach a definitive diagnosis for most of these conditions, and allowing breeding schemes to adapt to prevent breeding of affected puppies. This review summarizes the current knowledge about hereditary ataxias in dogs, and proposes to add a "multifocal degenerations with predominant (spino)cerebellar component" category regrouping canine multiple system degeneration, new hereditary ataxia syndromes that do not fit in 1 of the previous categories, as well as specific neuroaxonal dystrophies and lysosomal storage diseases that cause major (spino)cerebellar dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Stee
- Small Animal DepartmentFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Mario Van Poucke
- Department of Veterinary and BiosciencesFaculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ghent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | | | - Luc Van Ham
- Small Animal DepartmentFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Department of Veterinary and BiosciencesFaculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ghent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Natasha Olby
- Department of Clinical SciencesNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Sofie F.M. Bhatti
- Small Animal DepartmentFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
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Manto M, Cendelin J, Strupp M, Mitoma H. Advances in cerebellar disorders: pre-clinical models, therapeutic targets, and challenges. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:965-987. [PMID: 37768297 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2263911] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cerebellar ataxias (CAs) represent neurological disorders with multiple etiologies and a high phenotypic variability. Despite progress in the understanding of pathogenesis, few therapies are available so far. Closing the loop between preclinical studies and therapeutic trials is important, given the impact of CAs upon patients' health and the roles of the cerebellum in multiple domains. Because of a rapid advance in research on CAs, it is necessary to summarize the main findings and discuss future directions. AREAS COVERED We focus our discussion on preclinical models, cerebellar reserve, the therapeutic management of CAs, and suitable surrogate markers. We searched Web of Science and PubMed using keywords relevant to cerebellar diseases, therapy, and preclinical models. EXPERT OPINION There are many symptomatic and/or disease-modifying therapeutic approaches under investigation. For therapy development, preclinical studies, standardization of disease evaluation, safety assessment, and demonstration of clinical improvements are essential. Stage of the disease and the level of the cerebellar reserve determine the goals of the therapy. Deficits in multiple categories and heterogeneity of CAs may require disease-, stage-, and symptom-specific therapies. More research is needed to clarify how therapies targeting the cerebellum influence both basal ganglia and the cerebral cortex, poorly explored domains in CAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Manto
- Service des Neurosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Jan Cendelin
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Strupp
- Department of Neurology and German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Hiroshi Mitoma
- Department of Medical Education, Tokyo medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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Lin CYR, Kuo SH. Ataxias: Hereditary, Acquired, and Reversible Etiologies. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:48-64. [PMID: 36828010 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1763511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
A variety of etiologies can cause cerebellar dysfunction, leading to ataxia symptoms. Therefore, the accurate diagnosis of the cause for cerebellar ataxia can be challenging. A step-wise investigation will reveal underlying causes, including nutritional, toxin, immune-mediated, genetic, and degenerative disorders. Recent advances in genetics have identified new genes for both autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive ataxias, and new therapies are on the horizon for targeting specific biological pathways. New diagnostic criteria for degenerative ataxias have been proposed, specifically for multiple system atrophy, which will have a broad impact on the future clinical research in ataxia. In this article, we aim to provide a review focus on symptoms, laboratory testing, neuroimaging, and genetic testing for the diagnosis of cerebellar ataxia causes, with a special emphasis on recent advances. Strategies for the management of cerebellar ataxia is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Ying R Lin
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Disorders Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.,Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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10
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Teive HAG. A subtle presentation of a treatable cause of predominant hemidystonia with minimal ataxia: Expert commentary. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2023; 107:105275. [PMID: 36635135 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2022.105275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hélio A G Teive
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital de Clínicas, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
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11
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Abstract
This narrative review aims at providing an update on the management of inherited cerebellar ataxias (ICAs), describing main clinical entities, genetic analysis strategies and recent therapeutic developments. Initial approach facing a patient with cerebellar ataxia requires family medical history, physical examination, exclusions of acquired causes and genetic analysis, including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). To guide diagnosis, several algorithms and a new genetic nomenclature for recessive cerebellar ataxias have been proposed. The challenge of NGS analysis is the identification of causative variant, trio analysis being usually the most appropriate option. Public genomic databases as well as pathogenicity prediction software facilitate the interpretation of NGS results. We also report on key clinical points for the diagnosis of the main ICAs, including Friedreich ataxia, CANVAS, polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias, Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. Rarer forms should not be neglected because of diagnostic biomarkers availability, disease-modifying treatments, or associated susceptibility to malignancy. Diagnostic difficulties arise from allelic and phenotypic heterogeneity as well as from the possibility for one gene to be associated with both dominant and recessive inheritance. To complicate the phenotype, cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome can be associated with some subtypes of cerebellar ataxia. Lastly, we describe new therapeutic leads: antisense oligonucleotides approach in polyglutamine SCAs and viral gene therapy in Friedreich ataxia. This review provides support for diagnosis, genetic counseling and therapeutic management of ICAs in clinical practice.
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12
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Pedroso JL, Vale TC, França Junior MC, Kauffman MA, Teive H, Barsottini OGP, Munhoz RP. A Diagnostic Approach to Spastic ataxia Syndromes. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 21:1073-1084. [PMID: 34782953 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Spastic ataxia is characterized by the combination of cerebellar ataxia with spasticity and other pyramidal features. It is the hallmark of some hereditary ataxias, but it can also occur in some spastic paraplegias and acquired conditions. It often presents with heterogenous clinical features with other neurologic and non-neurological symptoms, resulting in complex phenotypes. In this review, the differential diagnosis of spastic ataxias are discussed and classified in accordance with inheritance. Establishing an organized classification method based on mode inheritance is fundamental for the approach to patients with these syndromes. For each differential, the clinical features, neuroimaging and genetic aspects are reviewed. A diagnostic approach for spastic ataxias is then proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luiz Pedroso
- Department of Neurology, Ataxia Unit, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Cardoso Vale
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Marcelo A Kauffman
- Laboratorio de Neurogenética, Centro Universitario de Neurología "José María Ramos Mejía" y División Neurología, Hospital JM Ramos Mejía, Facultad de Medicina, UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Helio Teive
- Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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13
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Alvarez C, Grimmel M, Ebrahimi-Fakhari D, Paul VG, Deininger N, Riess A, Haack T, Gardella E, Møller RS, Bayat A. Expansion of the phenotypic and molecular spectrum of CWF19L1-related disorder. Clin Genet 2022; 103:566-573. [PMID: 36453471 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in CWF19L1 lead to a rare autosomal recessive form of hereditary ataxia with only seven cases reported to date. Here, we describe four additional unrelated patients with biallelic variants in CWF19L1 (age range: 6-22 years) and provide a comprehensive review of the literature. The clinical spectrum was broad, including mild to profound global developmental delay; global or motor regression in infancy or adolescence; childhood-onset ataxia and cerebellar atrophy; and early-onset epilepsy. Since only two previously reported patients were adults, our cohort expands our understanding of the evolution of symptoms from childhood into early adulthood. Taken together, we describe that CWF19L1-related disorder presents with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with treatment-resistant seizures and intellectual disability in childhood followed by progressive ataxia and other extrapyramidal movement disorders in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Alvarez
- Department for genetics and personalized medicine, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, Avanced Epilepsy Center, Clínica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mona Grimmel
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Darius Ebrahimi-Fakhari
- Movement Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victoria G Paul
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Natalie Deininger
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Angelika Riess
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Centre for Rare Diseases, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Haack
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Centre for Rare Diseases, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Elena Gardella
- Department for genetics and personalized medicine, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark
| | - Rikke S Møller
- Department for genetics and personalized medicine, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Allan Bayat
- Department for genetics and personalized medicine, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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14
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Sakamoto M, Iwama K, Sasaki M, Ishiyama A, Komaki H, Saito T, Takeshita E, Shimizu-Motohashi Y, Haginoya K, Kobayashi T, Goto T, Tsuyusaki Y, Iai M, Kurosawa K, Osaka H, Tohyama J, Kobayashi Y, Okamoto N, Suzuki Y, Kumada S, Inoue K, Mashimo H, Arisaka A, Kuki I, Saijo H, Yokochi K, Kato M, Inaba Y, Gomi Y, Saitoh S, Shirai K, Morimoto M, Izumi Y, Watanabe Y, Nagamitsu SI, Sakai Y, Fukumura S, Muramatsu K, Ogata T, Yamada K, Ishigaki K, Hirasawa K, Shimoda K, Akasaka M, Kohashi K, Sakakibara T, Ikuno M, Sugino N, Yonekawa T, Gürsoy S, Cinleti T, Kim CA, Teik KW, Yan CM, Haniffa M, Ohba C, Ito S, Saitsu H, Saida K, Tsuchida N, Uchiyama Y, Koshimizu E, Fujita A, Hamanaka K, Misawa K, Miyatake S, Mizuguchi T, Miyake N, Matsumoto N. Genetic and clinical landscape of childhood cerebellar hypoplasia and atrophy. Genet Med 2022; 24:2453-2463. [PMID: 36305856 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.08.007] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cerebellar hypoplasia and atrophy (CBHA) in children is an extremely heterogeneous group of disorders, but few comprehensive genetic studies have been reported. Comprehensive genetic analysis of CBHA patients may help differentiating atrophy and hypoplasia and potentially improve their prognostic aspects. METHODS Patients with CBHA in 176 families were genetically examined using exome sequencing. Patients with disease-causing variants were clinically evaluated. RESULTS Disease-causing variants were identified in 96 of the 176 families (54.5%). After excluding 6 families, 48 patients from 42 families were categorized as having syndromic associations with CBHA, whereas the remaining 51 patients from 48 families had isolated CBHA. In 51 patients, 26 aberrant genes were identified, of which, 20 (76.9%) caused disease in 1 family each. The most prevalent genes were CACNA1A, ITPR1, and KIF1A. Of the 26 aberrant genes, 21 and 1 were functionally annotated to atrophy and hypoplasia, respectively. CBHA+S was more clinically severe than CBHA-S. Notably, ARG1 and FOLR1 variants were identified in 2 families, leading to medical treatments. CONCLUSION A wide genetic and clinical diversity of CBHA was revealed through exome sequencing in this cohort, which highlights the importance of comprehensive genetic analyses. Furthermore, molecular-based treatment was available for 2 families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masamune Sakamoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Iwama
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masayuki Sasaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Ishiyama
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Komaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Takeshita
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Shimizu-Motohashi
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Haginoya
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomoko Kobayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University Hospital, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan; Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohide Goto
- Department of Neurology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yu Tsuyusaki
- Department of Neurology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Mizue Iai
- Department of Neurology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kenji Kurosawa
- Division of Medical Genetics, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Osaka
- Department of Neurology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Jun Tohyama
- Department of Child Neurology, NHO Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yu Kobayashi
- Department of Child Neurology, NHO Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Okamoto
- Department of Medical Genetics, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Izumi, Japan
| | - Yume Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Satoko Kumada
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Inoue
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideaki Mashimo
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuko Arisaka
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ichiro Kuki
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Children's Medical Center, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Harumi Saijo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Higashiyamato Medical Center for Developmental/Multiple Disabilities, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Yokochi
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Seirei-Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Inaba
- Division of Neurology, Nagano Children's Hospital, Azumino, Nagano, Japan
| | - Yuko Gomi
- Division of Rehabilitation, Nagano Children's Hospital, Azumino, Nagano, Japan
| | - Shinji Saitoh
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kentaro Shirai
- Department of Pediatrics, Tsuchiura Kyodo General Hospital, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masafumi Morimoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuishin Izumi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoriko Watanabe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | | | - Yasunari Sakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinobu Fukumura
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Muramatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tomomi Ogata
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Keitaro Yamada
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Aichi Developmental Disability Center Central Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Keiko Ishigaki
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoko Hirasawa
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Konomi Shimoda
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manami Akasaka
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Iwate, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kohashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Matsudo City General Hospital, Matsudo, Japan
| | | | - Masashi Ikuno
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Sugino
- Department of Neonatology, Mie Chuo Medical Center, National Hospital Organization, Tsu, Japan
| | - Takahiro Yonekawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Mie University School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Semra Gürsoy
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, S.B.Ü. Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Education and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tayfun Cinleti
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Chong Ae Kim
- Unidade de Genética Clínica, Instituto da Criança do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Keng Wee Teik
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chan Mei Yan
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Muzhirah Haniffa
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chihiro Ohba
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Shuuichi Ito
- Department of Pediatrics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hirotomo Saitsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Ken Saida
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Naomi Tsuchida
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Rare Disease Genomics, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuri Uchiyama
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Rare Disease Genomics, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Eriko Koshimizu
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fujita
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kohei Hamanaka
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Misawa
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoko Miyatake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Clinical Genetics, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Mizuguchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Noriko Miyake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.
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Martínez-Martín Á, García-García J, Díaz-Maroto Cicuéndez I, Quintanilla-Mata M, Segura T. Aportando luz en la oscuridad: ataxia cerebelosa autosómica recesiva por mutación en el gen SEPSECS. Neurologia 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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A Novel Missense Mutation in ERCC8 Co-Segregates with Cerebellar Ataxia in a Consanguineous Pakistani Family. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193090. [PMID: 36231052 PMCID: PMC9564319 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal-recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCAs) are heterogeneous rare disorders mainly affecting the cerebellum and manifest as movement disorders in children and young adults. To date, ARCA causing mutations have been identified in nearly 100 genes; however, they account for less than 50% of all cases. We studied a multiplex, consanguineous Pakistani family presenting with a slowly progressive gait ataxia, body imbalance, and dysarthria. Cerebellar atrophy was identified by magnetic resonance imaging of brain. Using whole exome sequencing, a novel homozygous missense mutation ERCC8:c.176T>C (p.M59T) was identified that co-segregated with the disease. Previous studies have identified homozygous mutations in ERCC8 as causal for Cockayne Syndrome type A (CSA), a UV light-sensitive syndrome, and several ARCAs. ERCC8 plays critical roles in the nucleotide excision repair complex. The p.M59T, a substitution mutation, is located in a highly conserved WD1 beta-transducin repeat motif. In silico modeling showed that the structure of this protein is significantly affected by the p.M59T mutation, likely impairing complex formation and protein-protein interactions. In cultured cells, the p.M59T mutation significantly lowered protein stability compared to wildtype ERCC8 protein. These findings expand the role of ERCC8 mutations in ARCAs and indicate that ERCC8-related mutations should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ARCAs.
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17
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Berciano J, Gazulla J, Infante J. History of Ataxias and Paraplegias with an Annotation on the First Description of Striatonigral Degeneration. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 21:531-544. [PMID: 34731448 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-021-01328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to carry out a historical overview of the evolution of the knowledge on degenerative cerebellar disorders and hereditary spastic paraplegias, over the last century and a half. Original descriptions of the main pathological subtypes, including Friedreich's ataxia, hereditary spastic paraplegia, olivopontocerebellar atrophy and cortical cerebellar atrophy, are revised. Special attention is given to the first accurate description of striatonigral degeneration by Hans Joachim Scherer, his personal and scientific trajectory being clarified. Pathological classifications of ataxia are critically analysed. The current clinical-genetic classification of ataxia is updated by taking into account recent molecular discoveries. We conclude that there has been an enormous progress in the knowledge of the nosology of hereditary ataxias and paraplegias, currently encompassing around 200 genetic subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Berciano
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital "Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL)", University of Cantabria, and "Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)", Santander, Spain.
| | - José Gazulla
- Service of Neurology, "Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet", Saragossa, Spain
| | - Jon Infante
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital "Marqués de Valdecilla (IDIVAL)", University of Cantabria, and "Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)", Santander, Spain
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18
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Discovery of Therapeutics Targeting Oxidative Stress in Autosomal Recessive Cerebellar Ataxia: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060764. [PMID: 35745683 PMCID: PMC9228961 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCAs) are a heterogeneous group of rare neurodegenerative inherited disorders. The resulting motor incoordination and progressive functional disabilities lead to reduced lifespan. There is currently no cure for ARCAs, likely attributed to the lack of understanding of the multifaceted roles of antioxidant defense and the underlying mechanisms. This systematic review aims to evaluate the extant literature on the current developments of therapeutic strategies that target oxidative stress for the management of ARCAs. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct Scopus for relevant peer-reviewed articles published from 1 January 2016 onwards. A total of 28 preclinical studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this systematic review. We first evaluated the altered cellular processes, abnormal signaling cascades, and disrupted protein quality control underlying the pathogenesis of ARCA. We then examined the current potential therapeutic strategies for ARCAs, including aromatic, organic and pharmacological compounds, gene therapy, natural products, and nanotechnology, as well as their associated antioxidant pathways and modes of action. We then discussed their potential as antioxidant therapeutics for ARCAs, with the long-term view toward their possible translation to clinical practice. In conclusion, our current understanding is that these antioxidant therapies show promise in improving or halting the progression of ARCAs. Tailoring the therapies to specific disease stages could greatly facilitate the management of ARCAs.
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19
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Subramony SH, Burns M, Kugelmann EL, Zingariello CD. Inherited Ataxias in Children. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 131:54-62. [PMID: 35490578 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe the current diagnostic approach to inherited ataxias during childhood. With the expanding use and availability of gene testing technologies including large sequencing panels, the ability to arrive at a precise genetic diagnosis in this group of disorders has been improving. We have reviewed all the gene sequencing studies of ataxias available by a comprehensive literature search and summarize their results. We provide a logical algorithm for a diagnostic approach in the context of this evolving information. We stress the fact that both autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant mutations can occur in children with ataxias and the need for keeping in mind nucleotide repeat expansions, which cannot be detected by sequencing technologies, as a possible cause of progressive ataxias in children. We discuss the traditional phenotype-based diagnostic approach in the context of gene testing technologies. Finally, we summarize those disorders in which a specific therapy may be indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sub H Subramony
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida; Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida.
| | - Matthew Burns
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - E Lee Kugelmann
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Carla D Zingariello
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
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20
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Gama MTD, Braga-Neto P, Rangel DM, Godeiro C, Alencar R, Embiruçu EK, Cornejo-Olivas M, Sarapura-Castro E, Saffie Awad P, Muñoz Chesta D, Kauffman M, Rodriguez-Quiroga S, Jardim LB, da Graça FF, França MC, Tomaselli PJ, Marques W, Teive HAG, Barsottini OGP, Pedroso JL, Synofzik M. Autosomal Recessive Cerebellar Ataxias in South America: A Multicenter Study of 1338 Patients. Mov Disord 2022; 37:1773-1774. [PMID: 35507441 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Thereza D Gama
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro Braga-Neto
- Neurology Section, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil.,Neurology Service, Hospital Geral de Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Deborah M Rangel
- Neurology Section, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil.,Neurology Service, Hospital Geral de Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Clécio Godeiro
- Neurology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Alencar
- Neurology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil
| | - Emília K Embiruçu
- Medical Genetics Service, Hospital Universitário Professor Edgard Santos, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Mario Cornejo-Olivas
- Neurogenetics Research Center, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurológicas, Lima, Peru.,Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Paula Saffie Awad
- CETRAM-Centro de Estudios de Transtornos del Movimiento, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela Muñoz Chesta
- CETRAM-Centro de Estudios de Transtornos del Movimiento, Santiago, Chile.,Hospital San Borra Arriarán, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcelo Kauffman
- Neurogenetics Unit, Hospital General de Agudos José Maria Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Laura B Jardim
- Departamento de Medicina Interna, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Centros de Pesquisa Clínica e Experimental, e Serviço de Genética Médica, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Felipe F da Graça
- Department of Neurology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcondes C França
- Department of Neurology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Pedro J Tomaselli
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Science, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Wilson Marques
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Science, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Helio A G Teive
- Internal Medicine Department, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Orlando G P Barsottini
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Pedroso
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Department for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
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21
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Bringing light into the darkness: autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia due to a recessive mutation in the SEPSECS gene. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2022; 37:709-710. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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22
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Klockgether T, Ashizawa T, Brais B, Chuang R, Durr A, Fogel B, Greenfield J, Hagen S, Jardim LB, Jiang H, Onodera O, Pedroso JL, Soong BW, Szmulewicz D, Graessner H, Synofzik M. Paving the Way Toward Meaningful Trials in Ataxias: An Ataxia Global Initiative Perspective. Mov Disord 2022; 37:1125-1130. [PMID: 35475582 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Klockgether
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tetsuo Ashizawa
- Houston Methodist Research Institute and Weil Cornell Medical College at Houston Methodist, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Alexandra Durr
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute, Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, APHP, University Hospital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière Paris, Paris, France
| | - Brent Fogel
- Departments of Neurology and Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Sue Hagen
- National Ataxia Foundation, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Laura Bannach Jardim
- Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Hong Jiang
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Osamu Onodera
- Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - José Luiz Pedroso
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bin-Weng Soong
- National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taipei Neurologic Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Holm Graessner
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Center for Rare Diseases, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Division Translational Genomics of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center for Neurology and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
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Ataxia with Ocular Apraxia Type 1 (AOA1) (APTX, W279* Mutation): Neurological, Neuropsychological, and Molecular Outlining of a Heterogenous Phenotype in Four Colombian Siblings. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3845-3858. [PMID: 35420381 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02821-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary ataxias are a group of devastating neurological disorders that affect coordination of gait and are often associated with poor coordination of hands, speech, and eye movements. Ataxia with ocular apraxia type 1 (AOA1) (OMIM: 606,350.0006) is characterized by slowly progressive symptoms of childhood-onset and pathogenic mutations in APTX; the only known cause underpinning AOA1. APTX encodes the protein aprataxin, composed of three domains sharing homology with proteins involved in DNA damage, signaling, and repair. We present four siblings from an endogamic family in a rural, isolated town of Colombia with ataxia and ocular apraxia of childhood-onset and confirmed molecular diagnosis of AOA1, homozygous for the W279* p.Trp279Ter mutation. We predicted the mutated APTX with AlphaFold to demonstrate the effects of this stop-gain mutation that deletes three beta helices encoded by amino acid 270 to 339 rescinding the C2H2-type zinc fingers (Znf) (C2H2 Znf) DNA-binding, the DNA-repair domain, and the whole 3D structure of APTX. All siblings exhibited different ages of onset (4, 6, 8, and 11 years old) and heterogeneous patterns of dysarthria (ranging from absence to mild-moderate dysarthria). Neuropsychological evaluation showed no neurocognitive impairment in three siblings, but one sibling showed temporospatial disorientation, semantic and phonologic fluency impairment, episodic memory affection, constructional apraxia, moderate anomia, low executive function, and symptoms of depression. To our knowledge, this report represents the most extensive series of siblings affected with AOA1 in Latin America, and the genetic analysis completed adds important knowledge to outline this family's disease and general complex phenotype of hereditary ataxias.
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24
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Lipid Dyshomeostasis and Inherited Cerebellar Ataxia. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3800-3828. [PMID: 35420383 PMCID: PMC9148275 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxia is a form of ataxia that originates from dysfunction of the cerebellum, but may involve additional neurological tissues. Its clinical symptoms are mainly characterized by the absence of voluntary muscle coordination and loss of control of movement with varying manifestations due to differences in severity, in the site of cerebellar damage and in the involvement of extracerebellar tissues. Cerebellar ataxia may be sporadic, acquired, and hereditary. Hereditary ataxia accounts for the majority of cases. Hereditary ataxia has been tentatively divided into several subtypes by scientists in the field, and nearly all of them remain incurable. This is mainly because the detailed mechanisms of these cerebellar disorders are incompletely understood. To precisely diagnose and treat these diseases, studies on their molecular mechanisms have been conducted extensively in the past. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that some common pathogenic mechanisms exist within each subtype of inherited ataxia. However, no reports have indicated whether there is a common mechanism among the different subtypes of inherited cerebellar ataxia. In this review, we summarize the available references and databases on neurological disorders characterized by cerebellar ataxia and show that a subset of genes involved in lipid homeostasis form a new group that may cause ataxic disorders through a common mechanism. This common signaling pathway can provide a valuable reference for future diagnosis and treatment of ataxic disorders.
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25
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Recessive cerebellar and afferent ataxias - clinical challenges and future directions. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:257-272. [PMID: 35332317 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00634-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cerebellar and afferent ataxias present with a characteristic gait disorder that reflects cerebellar motor dysfunction and sensory loss. These disorders are a diagnostic challenge for clinicians because of the large number of acquired and inherited diseases that cause cerebellar and sensory neuron damage. Among such conditions that are recessively inherited, Friedreich ataxia and RFC1-associated cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS) include the characteristic clinical, neuropathological and imaging features of ganglionopathies, a distinctive non-length-dependent type of sensory involvement. In this Review, we discuss the typical and atypical phenotypes of Friedreich ataxia and CANVAS, along with the features of other recessive ataxias that present with a ganglionopathy or polyneuropathy, with an emphasis on recently described clinical features, natural history and genotype-phenotype correlations. We review the main developments in understanding the complex pathology that affects the sensory neurons and cerebellum, which seem to be most vulnerable to disorders that affect mitochondrial function and DNA repair mechanisms. Finally, we discuss disease-modifying therapeutic advances in Friedreich ataxia, highlighting the most promising candidate molecules and lessons learned from previous clinical trials.
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26
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Acute Cerebellar Inflammation and Related Ataxia: Mechanisms and Pathophysiology. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12030367. [PMID: 35326323 PMCID: PMC8946185 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12030367] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum governs motor coordination and motor learning. Infection with external microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi, induces the release and production of inflammatory mediators, which drive acute cerebellar inflammation. The clinical observation of acute cerebellitis is associated with the emergence of cerebellar ataxia. In our animal model of the acute inflammation of the cerebellar cortex, animals did not show any ataxia but hyperexcitability in the cerebellar cortex and depression-like behaviors. In contrast, animal models with neurodegeneration of the cerebellar Purkinje cells and hypoexcitability of the neurons show cerebellar ataxia. The suppression of the Ca2+-activated K+ channels in vivo is associated with a type of ataxia. Therefore, there is a gap in our interpretation between the very early phase of cerebellar inflammation and the emergence of cerebellar ataxia. In this review, we discuss the hypothesized scenario concerning the emergence of cerebellar ataxia. First, compared with genetically induced cerebellar ataxias, we introduce infection and inflammation in the cerebellum via aberrant immunity and glial responses. Especially, we focus on infections with cytomegalovirus, influenza virus, dengue virus, and SARS-CoV-2, potential relevance to mitochondrial DNA, and autoimmunity in infection. Second, we review neurophysiological modulation (intrinsic excitability, excitatory, and inhibitory synaptic transmission) by inflammatory mediators and aberrant immunity. Next, we discuss the cerebellar circuit dysfunction (presumably, via maintaining the homeostatic property). Lastly, we propose the mechanism of the cerebellar ataxia and possible treatments for the ataxia in the cerebellar inflammation.
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27
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MRI CNS Atrophy Pattern and the Etiologies of Progressive Ataxias. Tomography 2022; 8:423-437. [PMID: 35202200 PMCID: PMC8877967 DOI: 10.3390/tomography8010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
MRI shows the three archetypal patterns of CNS volume loss underlying progressive ataxias in vivo, namely spinal atrophy (SA), cortical cerebellar atrophy (CCA) and olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA). The MRI-based CNS atrophy pattern was reviewed in 128 progressive ataxias. A CNS atrophy pattern was identified in 91 conditions: SA in Friedreich’s ataxia, CCA in 5 acquired and 72 (24 dominant, 47 recessive,1 X-linked) inherited ataxias, OPCA in Multi-System Atrophy and 12 (9 dominant, 2 recessive,1 X-linked) inherited ataxias. The MRI-based CNS atrophy pattern may be useful for genetic assessment, identification of shared cellular targets, repurposing therapies or the enlargement of drug indications in progressive ataxias.
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28
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OUP accepted manuscript. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2022; 37:904-915. [DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acac024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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29
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Bogdanova-Mihaylova P, Plapp HM, Chen H, Early A, Cassidy L, Walsh RA, Murphy SM. Longitudinal Assessment Using Optical Coherence Tomography in Patients with Friedreich's Ataxia. Tomography 2021; 7:915-931. [PMID: 34941648 PMCID: PMC8706975 DOI: 10.3390/tomography7040076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular abnormalities occur frequently in Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), although visual symptoms are not always reported. We evaluated a cohort of patients with FRDA to characterise the clinical phenotype and optic nerve findings as detected with optical coherence tomography (OCT). A total of 48 patients from 42 unrelated families were recruited. Mean age at onset was 13.8 years (range 4-40), mean disease duration 19.5 years (range 5-43), mean disease severity as quantified with the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia 22/40 (range 4.5-38). All patients displayed variable ataxia and two-thirds had ocular abnormalities. Statistically significant thinning of average retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) and thinning in all but the temporal quadrant compared to controls was demonstrated on OCT. Significant RNFL and macular thinning was documented over time in 20 individuals. Disease severity and visual acuity were correlated with RNFL and macular thickness, but no association was found with disease duration. Our results highlight that FDRA is associated with subclinical optic neuropathy. This is the largest longitudinal study of OCT findings in FRDA to date, demonstrating progressive RNFL thickness decline, suggesting that RNFL thickness as measured by OCT has the potential to become a quantifiable biomarker for the evaluation of disease progression in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petya Bogdanova-Mihaylova
- National Ataxia Clinic, Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland; (R.A.W.); (S.M.M.)
| | - Helena Maria Plapp
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; (H.M.P.); (H.C.)
| | - Hongying Chen
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; (H.M.P.); (H.C.)
| | - Anne Early
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin 24, Ireland; (A.E.); (L.C.)
| | - Lorraine Cassidy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin 24, Ireland; (A.E.); (L.C.)
| | - Richard A. Walsh
- National Ataxia Clinic, Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland; (R.A.W.); (S.M.M.)
- Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Hospital and University College Dublin, Dublin 7, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sinéad M. Murphy
- National Ataxia Clinic, Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland; (R.A.W.); (S.M.M.)
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
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30
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Atassie cerebellari ereditarie. Neurologia 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(21)45784-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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31
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Baty K, Farrugia ME, Hopton S, Falkous G, Schaefer AM, Stewart W, Willison HJ, Reilly MM, Blakely EL, Taylor RW, Ng YS. A novel MT-CO2 variant causing cerebellar ataxia and neuropathy: The role of muscle biopsy in diagnosis and defining pathogenicity. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:1186-1193. [PMID: 34325999 PMCID: PMC8708152 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2021.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are associated with significant clinical heterogeneity with neuromuscular involvement commonly reported. Non-syndromic presentations of mtDNA disease continue to pose a diagnostic challenge and with genomic testing still necessitating a muscle biopsy in many cases. Here we describe an adult patient who presented with progressive ataxia, neuropathy and exercise intolerance in whom the application of numerous Mendelian gene panels had failed to make a genetic diagnosis. Muscle biopsy revealed characteristic mitochondrial pathology (cytochrome c oxidase deficient, ragged-red fibers) prompting a thorough investigation of the mitochondrial genome. Two heteroplasmic MT-CO2 gene variants (NC_012920.1: m.7887G>A and m.8250G>A) were identified, necessitating single fiber segregation and familial studies - including the biopsy of the patient's clinically-unaffected mother - to demonstrate pathogenicity of the novel m.7887G>A p.(Gly101Asp) variant and establishing this as the cause of the mitochondrial biochemical defects and clinical presentation. In the era of high throughput whole exome and genome sequencing, muscle biopsy remains a key investigation in the diagnosis of patients with non-syndromic presentations of adult-onset mitochondrial disease and fully defining the pathogenicity of novel mtDNA variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Baty
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Maria E Farrugia
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
| | - Sila Hopton
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Gavin Falkous
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Andrew M Schaefer
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK; Directorate of Neurosciences, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - William Stewart
- Department of Neuropathology, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow G51 4TF and Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Hugh J Willison
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK
| | - Mary M Reilly
- MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Emma L Blakely
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Robert W Taylor
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; NHS Highly Specialised Services for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK; Directorate of Neurosciences, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK.
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32
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Saida K, Tamaoki J, Sasaki M, Haniffa M, Koshimizu E, Sengoku T, Maeda H, Kikuchi M, Yokoyama H, Sakamoto M, Iwama K, Sekiguchi F, Hamanaka K, Fujita A, Mizuguchi T, Ogata K, Miyake N, Miyatake S, Kobayashi M, Matsumoto N. Pathogenic variants in the survival of motor neurons complex gene GEMIN5 cause cerebellar atrophy. Clin Genet 2021; 100:722-730. [PMID: 34569062 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxia is a genetically heterogeneous disorder. GEMIN5 encoding an RNA-binding protein of the survival of motor neuron complex, is essential for small nuclear ribonucleoprotein biogenesis, and it was recently reported that biallelic loss-of-function variants cause neurodevelopmental delay, hypotonia, and cerebellar ataxia. Here, whole-exome analysis revealed compound heterozygous GEMIN5 variants in two individuals from our cohort of 162 patients with cerebellar atrophy/hypoplasia. Three novel truncating variants and one previously reported missense variant were identified: c.2196dupA, p.(Arg733Thrfs*6) and c.1831G > A, p.(Val611Met) in individual 1, and c.3913delG, p.(Ala1305Leufs*14) and c.4496dupA, p.(Tyr1499*) in individual 2. Western blotting analysis using lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from both affected individuals showed significantly reduced levels of GEMIN5 protein. Zebrafish model for null variants p.(Arg733Thrfs*6) and p.(Ala1305Leufs*14) exhibited complete lethality at 2 weeks and recapitulated a distinct dysplastic phenotype. The phenotypes of affected individuals and the zebrafish mutant models strongly suggest that biallelic loss-of-function variants in GEMIN5 cause cerebellar atrophy/hypoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Saida
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Junya Tamaoki
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masayuki Sasaki
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Muzhirah Haniffa
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eriko Koshimizu
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Toru Sengoku
- Department of Biochemistry, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hiroki Maeda
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hitachi General Hospital, Hitachi, Japan
| | - Haruna Yokoyama
- Department of Child Neurology, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masamune Sakamoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Iwama
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Futoshi Sekiguchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kohei Hamanaka
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fujita
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Mizuguchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Ogata
- Department of Biochemistry, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Noriko Miyake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Human Genetics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Toyama, Japan
| | - Satoko Miyatake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Makoto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
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Dragašević-Mišković N, Stanković I, Milovanović A, Kostić VS. Autosomal recessive adult onset ataxia. J Neurol 2021; 269:504-533. [PMID: 34499204 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10763-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Autosomal recessive ataxias (ARCA) represent a complex group of diseases ranging from primary ataxias to rare and complex metabolic disorders in which ataxia is a part of the clinical picture. Small number of ARCA manifest exclusively in adulthood, while majority of typical childhood onset ARCA may also start later with atypical clinical presentation. We have systematically searched the literature for ARCA with adult onset, both in the group of primary ataxias including those that are less frequently described in isolated or in a small number of families, and also in the group of complex and metabolic diseases in which ataxia is only part of the clinical picture. We propose an algorithm that could be used when encountering a patient with adult onset sporadic or recessive ataxia in whom the acquired causes are excluded. ARCA are frequently neglected in the differential diagnosis of adult-onset ataxias. Rising awareness of their clinical significance is important, not only because some of these disorders may be potentially treatable, but also for prognostic implications and inclusion of patients to future clinical trials with disease modifying agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Dragašević-Mišković
- Neurology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 6, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Iva Stanković
- Neurology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 6, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Andona Milovanović
- Neurology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 6, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vladimir S Kostić
- Neurology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 6, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
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Raslan IR, Barsottini OG, Pedroso JL. A Proposed Clinical Classification and a Diagnostic Approach for Congenital Ataxias. Neurol Clin Pract 2021; 11:e328-e336. [PMID: 34484907 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review proposes a clinical classification for congenital ataxias based on clinical features, neuroimaging, and course of the disease. Recent Findings Congenital ataxias are an unusual group of neurologic disorders, with heterogeneous clinical and genetic presentation. Typical clinical features of congenital ataxias include variable degrees of motor developmental delay, very early onset cerebellar ataxia, cognitive impairment, and hypotonia, frequently mistakenly diagnosed as cerebral palsy. Congenital ataxias are usually nonprogressive. Neuroimaging plays an important role in the characterization of congenital ataxias. Despite the development of genetics with exome sequencing, several congenital ataxias remain undetermined, and medical literature on this topic is scarce. Summary A didactic classification based on the clinical and neuroimaging features for congenital ataxias include the following 4 main groups: cerebellar malformation, syndromic congenital ataxias, congenital cerebellar hypoplasia, and pontocerebellar hypoplasia. A diagnostic approach for congenital ataxias is proposed, and its differential diagnosis is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Rocha Raslan
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Orlando G Barsottini
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Pedroso
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Deletion of the SELENOP gene leads to CNS atrophy with cerebellar ataxia in dogs. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009716. [PMID: 34339417 PMCID: PMC8360551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated a hereditary cerebellar ataxia in Belgian Shepherd dogs. Affected dogs developed uncoordinated movements and intention tremor at two weeks of age. The severity of clinical signs was highly variable. Histopathology demonstrated atrophy of the CNS, particularly in the cerebellum. Combined linkage and homozygosity mapping in a family with four affected puppies delineated a 52 Mb critical interval. The comparison of whole genome sequence data of one affected dog to 735 control genomes revealed a private homozygous structural variant in the critical interval, Chr4:66,946,539_66,963,863del17,325. This deletion includes the entire protein coding sequence of SELENOP and is predicted to result in complete absence of the encoded selenoprotein P required for selenium transport into the CNS. Genotypes at the deletion showed the expected co-segregation with the phenotype in the investigated family. Total selenium levels in the blood of homozygous mutant puppies of the investigated litter were reduced to about 30% of the value of a homozygous wildtype littermate. Genotyping >600 Belgian Shepherd dogs revealed an additional homozygous mutant dog. This dog also suffered from pronounced ataxia, but reached an age of 10 years. Selenop-/- knock-out mice were reported to develop ataxia, but their histopathological changes were less severe than in the investigated dogs. Our results demonstrate that deletion of the SELENOP gene in dogs cause a defect in selenium transport associated with CNS atrophy and cerebellar ataxia (CACA). The affected dogs represent a valuable spontaneous animal model to gain further insights into the pathophysiological consequences of CNS selenium deficiency. We studied a form of inherited ataxia in a family of Belgian Shepherd dogs that we termed CNS atrophy and cerebellar ataxia (CACA). Clinical signs were evident at 2 weeks of age and the affected puppies had to be euthanized at 4 weeks of age. The pedigree of the index family with 4 affected and 4 unaffected puppies suggested autosomal recessive inheritance. Using a purely positional cloning approach, we identified a complete deletion of the SELENOP gene as the most likely causative variant. SELENOP encodes selenoprotein P, a protein with multiple selenocysteine residues, which is required for the transport of selenium into the CNS. Selenium measurements in affected dogs demonstrated blood selenium levels of about 30% compared to normal control dogs. Genotyping a cohort of additional Belgian Shepherd dogs with unexplained ataxia identified another CACA case that had a relatively stable clinical condition and reached an age of 10 years. Selenop-/- knock-out mice show a related but not identical ataxia phenotype. Our finding of a SELENOP gene deletion in CACA affected dogs identifies a spontaneous animal model to gain further insights into the pathophysiological consequences of CNS selenium deficiency.
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Vidhale TA, Gupta HR, Pj R, Gandhi C. Very late-onset Friedreich's ataxia with rapid course mimicking as possible multiple system atrophy cerebellar type. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:e242073. [PMID: 34301694 PMCID: PMC8311314 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-242073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This 55-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with an insidious onset, progressive backward fall (due to severe truncal ataxia), dysarthria, stiffness in extremities, distal dominant muscle wasting along with behavioural changes and urinary incontinence. Clinical assessment indicated mild cognitive decline (Mini-Mental State Examination 22/27) with cerebellar, pyramidal and peripheral nerves involvement. On investigations, nerve conduction studies revealed symmetrical, sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy affecting both lower limbs. Brain and whole spine MRI revealed widespread cerebral and mild cerebellar atrophy, pons and medulla volume loss, and a normal spinal cord. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed concentric left ventricular hypertrophy. His gene analysis revealed eight GAA repeats on allele 1, and 37 GAA repeats on allele 2 in the first intron of the frataxin gene. Considering his clinical profile and genetic analysis, he was diagnosed as a case of very late-onset Friedreich's ataxia with likely compound heterozygous genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tushar Ashok Vidhale
- Department of Medicine, Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Hemant R Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rohan Pj
- Department of Radiology, BGS Global Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Charmi Gandhi
- Department of Medicine, Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Krygier M, Mazurkiewicz-Bełdzińska M. Milestones in genetics of cerebellar ataxias. Neurogenetics 2021; 22:225-234. [PMID: 34224032 PMCID: PMC8426223 DOI: 10.1007/s10048-021-00656-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxias (CAs) comprise a group of rare, neurological disorders characterized by extensive phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity. The core clinical feature is the cerebellar syndrome, which is often accompanied by other neurological or non-neurological signs. In the last 30 years, our understanding of the CA etiology has increased significantly, and numerous ataxia-associated genes have been discovered. Conventional variants or tandem repeat expansions, localized in the coding or non-coding DNA sequences, lead to hereditary ataxia, which can display different patterns of inheritance. Advances in molecular techniques have enabled a rapid and cost-effective detection of causative variants in a significant number of CA patients. However, despite performing extensive investigations, a definite diagnosis is still unknown in the majority of affected individuals. In this review, we discuss the major advances in the genetics of CAs over the last 30 years, focusing on the impact of next-generation sequencing on the genetic landscape of childhood- and adult-onset CAs. Additionally, we outline possible directions for further genetic research in hereditary and sporadic CAs in the era of increasing application of whole-genome sequencing and genome-wide association studies in various neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Krygier
- Department of Developmental Neurology, Medical University of Gdańsk, ul. Dębinki 7 80-952, Gdańsk, Poland.
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Kinkar JS, Jameel PZ, Kumawat BL, Kalbhor P. Heterozygous deletion in exon 6 of STEX gene causing ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA-2) with ovarian failure. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/6/e241767. [PMID: 34193451 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-241767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2), recently renamed as ATX-SETX, is an autosomal recessive, progressive neurodegenerative disorder belonging to inherited cerebellar ataxias. The pathogenic variants of the SETX gene have been implicated in ATX-SETX. We report the case of a 21-year-old woman presenting with ataxia, oculomotor apraxia and dystonia. She had elevated serum α-fetoprotein (AFP), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) levels and moderate cerebellar atrophy. On further evaluation, she was found to have premature ovarian failure as well. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification detected a heterozygous deletion in exon 6 of the SETX gene. A combination of cerebellar ataxia, oculomotor apraxia with elevated AFP and cerebellar atrophy are highly suggestive of ATX-SETX. In rare instances, it may be associated with premature ovarian failure with elevated FSH and LH levels, necessitating hormonal survey and fertility evaluation in all patients with ATX-SETX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwan Shriram Kinkar
- Department of Neurology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Patel Zeeshan Jameel
- Department of Paediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Banshi Lal Kumawat
- Department of Neurology, Sawai Man Singh Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Priyanka Kalbhor
- Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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Paulus-Andres JA, Burnett MS. Three Adult-Onset Autosomal Recessive Ataxias: What Adult Neurologists Need to Know. Neurol Clin Pract 2021; 11:256-262. [PMID: 34484893 PMCID: PMC8382373 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review we seek to raise awareness of 3 autosomal recessive ataxias that look different clinically when presenting in adulthood rather than childhood. RECENT FINDINGS A study found a high allelic frequency for repeat expansions in the RFC1 gene, a cause of cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, and vestibular areflexia syndrome, which presents exclusively in adults. This implies that autosomal recessive etiologies of adult-onset cerebellar ataxias may be more common than previously thought. SUMMARY Adult-onset cerebellar ataxias are commonly caused by mutations inherited in either an autosomal dominant or X-linked pattern, as most autosomal recessive mutations cause disease at earlier ages. However, some autosomal recessive etiologies such as late-onset Tay-Sachs disease, very late-onset Friedreich ataxia, and autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay emerge in adulthood, with age at presentation influencing the progression and clinical signs of the disease. This review will cover the genetics, clinical presentation, and necessary diagnostic steps required to identify 3 causes of autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia that manifest differently in adults vs children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan A Paulus-Andres
- Creighton University School of Medicine (JAP-A); and Department of Neurology (MSB), Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE
| | - Melinda S Burnett
- Creighton University School of Medicine (JAP-A); and Department of Neurology (MSB), Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE
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Benussi A, Cantoni V, Manes M, Libri I, Dell'Era V, Datta A, Thomas C, Ferrari C, Di Fonzo A, Fancellu R, Grassi M, Brusco A, Alberici A, Borroni B. Motor and cognitive outcomes of cerebello-spinal stimulation in neurodegenerative ataxia. Brain 2021; 144:2310-2321. [PMID: 33950222 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxias represent a heterogeneous group of disabling disorders characterized by motor and cognitive disturbances, for which no effective treatment is currently available. In this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial, followed by an open-label phase, we investigated whether treatment with cerebello-spinal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) could improve both motor and cognitive symptoms in patients with neurodegenerative ataxia at short and long-term. Sixty-one patients were randomized in two groups for the first controlled phase. At baseline (T0), Group 1 received placebo stimulation (sham tDCS) while Group 2 received anodal cerebellar tDCS and cathodal spinal tDCS (real tDCS) for 5 days/week for two weeks (T1), with a 12-week (T2) follow-up (randomized, double-blind, sham controlled phase). At the 12-week follow-up (T2), all patients (Group 1 and Group 2) received a second treatment of anodal cerebellar tDCS and cathodal spinal tDCS (real tDCS) for 5 days/week for two weeks, with a 14-week (T3), 24-week (T4), 36-week (T5) and 52-week follow-up (T6) (open-label phase). At each time point, a clinical, neuropsychological and neurophysiological evaluation was performed. Cerebellar-motor cortex connectivity was evaluated using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). We observed a significant improvement in all motor scores (scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia, international cooperative ataxia rating scale), in cognition (evaluated with the cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome scale), in quality-of-life scores, in motor cortex excitability and in cerebellar inhibition after real tDCS compared to sham stimulation and compared to baseline (T0), both at short and long-term. We observed an addon-effect after two repeated treatments with real tDCS compared to a single treatment with real tDCS. The improvement at motor and cognitive scores correlated with the restoration of cerebellar inhibition evaluated with TMS. Cerebello-spinal tDCS represents a promising therapeutic approach for both motor and cognitive symptoms in patients with neurodegenerative ataxia, a still orphan disorder of any pharmacological intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Benussi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Neurology Unit, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Cantoni
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marta Manes
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Neurology Unit, Aulss2 Marca Trevigiana, Treviso, Italy
| | - Ilenia Libri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Dell'Era
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Neurology, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Abhishek Datta
- Research & Development, Soterix Medical, Inc., New York, USA
| | - Chris Thomas
- Research & Development, Soterix Medical, Inc., New York, USA
| | - Camilla Ferrari
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Italy
| | - Alessio Di Fonzo
- Dino Ferrari Center, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neurology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Fancellu
- UO Neurologia, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mario Grassi
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, Medical and Genomic Statistics Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Brusco
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Antonella Alberici
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Borroni
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Neurology Unit, Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
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Zebrafish Models of Autosomal Recessive Ataxias. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040836. [PMID: 33917666 PMCID: PMC8068028 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive ataxias are much less well studied than autosomal dominant ataxias and there are no clearly defined systems to classify them. Autosomal recessive ataxias, which are characterized by neuronal and multisystemic features, have significant overlapping symptoms with other complex multisystemic recessive disorders. The generation of animal models of neurodegenerative disorders increases our knowledge of their cellular and molecular mechanisms and helps in the search for new therapies. Among animal models, the zebrafish, which shares 70% of its genome with humans, offer the advantages of being small in size and demonstrating rapid development, making them optimal for high throughput drug and genetic screening. Furthermore, embryo and larval transparency allows to visualize cellular processes and central nervous system development in vivo. In this review, we discuss the contributions of zebrafish models to the study of autosomal recessive ataxias characteristic phenotypes, behavior, and gene function, in addition to commenting on possible treatments found in these models. Most of the zebrafish models generated to date recapitulate the main features of recessive ataxias.
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Gannamani R, van der Veen S, van Egmond M, de Koning TJ, Tijssen MAJ. Challenges in Clinicogenetic Correlations: One Phenotype - Many Genes. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2021; 8:311-321. [PMID: 33816658 PMCID: PMC8015914 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.13163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the field of movement disorders, what you see (phenotype) is seldom what you get (genotype). Whereas 1 phenotype was previously associated to 1 gene, the advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has facilitated an exponential increase in disease‐causing genes and genotype–phenotype correlations, and the “one‐phenotype‐many‐genes” paradigm has become prominent. Objectives To highlight the “one‐phenotype‐many‐genes” paradigm by discussing the main challenges, perspectives on how to address them, and future directions. Methods We performed a scoping review of the various aspects involved in identifying the underlying molecular cause of a movement disorder phenotype. Results The notable challenges are (1) the lack of gold standards, overlap in clinical spectrum of different movement disorders, and variability in the interpretation of classification systems; (2) selecting which patients benefit from genetic tests and the choice of genetic testing; (3) problems in the variant interpretation guidelines; (4) the filtering of variants associated with disease; and (5) the lack of standardized, complete, and up‐to‐date gene lists. Perspectives to address these include (1) deep phenotyping and genotype–phenotype integration, (2) adherence to phenotype‐specific diagnostic algorithms, (3) implementation of current and complementary bioinformatic tools, (4) a clinical‐molecular diagnosis through close collaboration between clinicians and genetic laboratories, and (5) ongoing curation of gene lists and periodic reanalysis of genetic sequencing data. Conclusions Despite the rapidly emerging possibilities of NGS, there are still many steps to take to improve the genetic diagnostic yield. Future directions, including post‐NGS phenotyping and cohort analyses enriched by genotype–phenotype integration and gene networks, ought to be pursued to accelerate identification of disease‐causing genes and further improve our understanding of disease biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Gannamani
- Department of Neurology University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Department of Genetics University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Sterre van der Veen
- Department of Neurology University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Martje van Egmond
- Department of Neurology University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Tom J de Koning
- Department of Genetics University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Lund Sweden
| | - Marina A J Tijssen
- Department of Neurology University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands.,Expertise Centre Movement Disorders Groningen University Medical Centre Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
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Cocozza S, Pontillo G, De Michele G, Di Stasi M, Guerriero E, Perillo T, Pane C, De Rosa A, Ugga L, Brunetti A. Conventional MRI findings in hereditary degenerative ataxias: a pictorial review. Neuroradiology 2021; 63:983-999. [PMID: 33733696 PMCID: PMC8213578 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-021-02682-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Cerebellar ataxias are a large and heterogeneous group of disorders. The evaluation of brain parenchyma via MRI plays a central role in the diagnostic assessment of these conditions, being mandatory to exclude the presence of other underlying causes in determining the clinical phenotype. Once these possible causes are ruled out, the diagnosis is usually researched in the wide range of hereditary or sporadic ataxias. Methods We here propose a review of the main clinical and conventional imaging findings of the most common hereditary degenerative ataxias, to help neuroradiologists in the evaluation of these patients. Results Hereditary degenerative ataxias are all usually characterized from a neuroimaging standpoint by the presence, in almost all cases, of cerebellar atrophy. Nevertheless, a proper assessment of imaging data, extending beyond the mere evaluation of cerebellar atrophy, evaluating also the pattern of volume loss as well as concomitant MRI signs, is crucial to achieve a proper diagnosis. Conclusion The integration of typical neuroradiological characteristics, along with patient’s clinical history and laboratory data, could allow the neuroradiologist to identify some conditions and exclude others, addressing the neurologist to the more appropriate genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Cocozza
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Pontillo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna De Michele
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Di Stasi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Elvira Guerriero
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Perillo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Pane
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Anna De Rosa
- Department of Neurosciences and Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ugga
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Arturo Brunetti
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Rydning SL, Wedding IM. Monogenic mysteries unravel mitochondrial mechanisms. Brain 2021; 144:1286-1288. [PMID: 33712815 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This scientific commentary refers to ‘Biallelic loss-of-function variations in PRDX3 cause cerebellar ataxia’, by Rebelo et al. (doi: 10.1093/brain/awab071).
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Phang MWL, Lew SY, Chung I, Lim WKS, Lim LW, Wong KH. Therapeutic roles of natural remedies in combating hereditary ataxia: A systematic review. Chin Med 2021; 16:15. [PMID: 33509239 PMCID: PMC7841890 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-020-00414-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hereditary ataxia (HA) represents a group of genetically heterogeneous neurodegenerative diseases caused by dysfunction of the cerebellum or disruption of the connection between the cerebellum and other areas of the central nervous system. Phenotypic manifestation of HA includes unsteadiness of stance and gait, dysarthria, nystagmus, dysmetria and complaints of clumsiness. There are no specific treatments for HA. Management strategies provide supportive treatment to reduce symptoms. Objectives This systematic review aimed to identify, evaluate and summarise the published literature on the therapeutic roles of natural remedies in the treatment of HA to provide evidence for clinical practice. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct Scopus were thoroughly searched for relevant published articles from June 2007 to July 2020. Results Ten pre-clinical and two clinical studies were eligible for inclusion in this systematic review. We identified the therapeutic roles of medicinal plants Brassica napus, Gardenia jasminoides, Gastrodia elata, Ginkgo biloba, Glycyrrhiza inflata, Paeonia lactiflora, Pueraria lobata and Rehmannia glutinosa; herbal formulations Shaoyao Gancao Tang and Zhengan Xifeng Tang; and medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus in the treatment of HA. In this review, we evaluated the mode of actions contributing to their therapeutic effects, including activation of the ubiquitin–proteasome system, activation of antioxidant pathways, maintenance of intracellular calcium homeostasis and regulation of chaperones. We also briefly highlighted the integral cellular signalling pathways responsible for orchestrating the mode of actions. Conclusion We reviewed the therapeutic roles of natural remedies in improving or halting the progression of HA, which warrant further study for applications into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Weng Lok Phang
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Sze Yuen Lew
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Ivy Chung
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - William Kiong-Seng Lim
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kuching, Sarawak, 94300, Malaysia
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- Neuromodulation Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
| | - Kah Hui Wong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
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Genetic and Epidemiological Study of Adult Ataxia and Spastic Paraplegia in Eastern Quebec. Can J Neurol Sci 2021; 48:655-665. [PMID: 33397523 DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2020.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the minimum prevalence of adult hereditary ataxias (HA) and spastic paraplegias (HSP) in Eastern Quebec and to evaluate the proportion of associated mutations in identified genes. METHODS We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study of patients who met clinical criteria for the diagnosis of HA (n = 241) and HSP (n = 115) in the East of the Quebec province between January 2007 and July 2019. The primary outcome was the prevalence per 100,000 persons with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The secondary outcome was the frequency of mutations identified by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach. Minimum carrier frequency for identified variants was calculated based on allele frequency values and the Hardy-Weinberg (HW) equation. RESULTS The minimum prevalence of HA in Eastern Quebec was estimated at 6.47/100 000 [95% CI; 6.44-6.51]; divided into 3.73/100 000 for autosomal recessive (AR) ataxias and 2.67/100 000 for autosomal dominant (AD) ataxias. The minimum prevalence of HSP was 4.17/100 000 [95% CI; 4.14-4.2]; with 2.05/100 000 for AD-HSP and 2.12/100 000 for AR-HSP. In total, 52.4% of patients had a confirmed genetic diagnosis. AR cerebellar ataxia type 1 (2.67/100 000) and AD spastic paraplegia SPG4 (1.18/100 000) were the most prevalent disorders identified. Mutations were identified in 23 genes and molecular alterations in 7 trinucleotides repeats expansion; the most common mutations were c.15705-12 A > G in SYNE1 and c.1529C > T (p.A510V) in SPG7. CONCLUSIONS We described the minimum prevalence of genetically defined adult HA and HSP in Eastern Quebec. This study provides a framework for international comparisons and service planning.
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Habibzadeh P, Tabatabaei Z, Inaloo S, Nashatizadeh MM, Synofzik M, Ostovan VR, Faghihi MA. Case Report: Expanding the Genetic and Phenotypic Spectrum of Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay. Front Genet 2020; 11:585136. [PMID: 33414805 PMCID: PMC7784631 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.585136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix–Saguenay (ARSACS) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by biallelic mutations in the SACS gene. Once thought to be limited to Charlevoix–Saguenay region of Quebec, recent evidence has indicated that this disorder is present worldwide. It is classically characterized by the triad of ataxia, pyramidal involvement, and axonal-demyelinating sensorimotor neuropathy. However, diverse clinical features have been reported to be associated with this disorder. In this report, we present the first Iranian family affected by ARSACS with unique clinical features (mirror movements, hypokinesia/bradykinesia, and rigidity) harboring a novel deletion mutation in the SACS gene. Our findings expand the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parham Habibzadeh
- Persian BayanGene Research and Training Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Tabatabaei
- Persian BayanGene Research and Training Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Soroor Inaloo
- Neonatal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Muhammad Mahdi Nashatizadeh
- Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Center, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas, KS, United States
| | - Matthis Synofzik
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research and Center of Neurology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Vahid Reza Ostovan
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Faghihi
- Persian BayanGene Research and Training Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Center for Therapeutic Innovation, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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Perlman SL. Update on the Treatment of Ataxia: Medication and Emerging Therapies. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:1660-1664. [PMID: 33021724 PMCID: PMC7851298 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-020-00941-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
While rehabilitation therapies always help patients with ataxia, there are currently no FDA-approved treatments for ataxia. Medications are available to treat symptoms that may complicate an ataxic illness, e.g., tremor, myoclonus, dystonia, and rigidity, which are discussed elsewhere in this volume. Spasticity, pain, fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive decline, and bowel and bladder dysfunction, if they occur, all have multiple available drugs and therapies for symptomatic use. There is also an extensive literature on off-label uses of various medications to improve imbalance. The pipeline of emerging therapies for symptomatic and possible disease-modifying management of ataxia gives hope that we will soon see the first of many FDA-approved drugs for ataxic illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Perlman
- Clinical Professor of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Pedroso JL, de Rezende Pinto WBV, Barsottini OGP, Oliveira ASB. Should we investigate mitochondrial disorders in progressive adult-onset undetermined ataxias? CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2020; 7:13. [PMID: 32922825 PMCID: PMC7444269 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-020-00122-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite the broad development of next-generation sequencing approaches recently, such as whole-exome sequencing, diagnostic workup of adult-onset progressive cerebellar ataxias without remarkable family history and with negative genetic panel testing for SCAs remains a complex and expensive clinical challenge. Case presentation In this article, we report a Brazilian man with adult-onset slowly progressive pure cerebellar ataxia, which developed neuropathy and hearing loss after fifteen years of ataxia onset, in which a primary mitochondrial DNA defect (MERRF syndrome - myoclonus epilepsy with ragged-red fibers) was confirmed through muscle biopsy evaluation and whole-exome sequencing. Conclusions Mitochondrial disorders are a clinically and genetically complex and heterogenous group of metabolic diseases, resulting from pathogenic variants in the mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA. In our case, a correlation with histopathological changes identified on muscle biopsy helped to clarify the definitive diagnosis. Moreover, in neurodegenerative and neurogenetic disorders, some symptoms may be evinced later during disease course. We suggest that late-onset and adult pure undetermined ataxias should be considered and investigated for mitochondrial disorders, particularly MERRF syndrome and other primary mitochondrial DNA defects, together with other more commonly known nuclear genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luiz Pedroso
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Pedro de Toledo Street, 650. ZIP CODE: 04039-002. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | | | - Orlando Graziani Povoas Barsottini
- Ataxia Unit, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Pedro de Toledo Street, 650. ZIP CODE: 04039-002. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Acary Souza Bulle Oliveira
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP Brazil
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