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Barcellos I, Hansen C, Strobel GK, Geritz J, Munhoz RP, Moscovich M, Maetzler W, Teive HAG. Spatiotemporal Gait Analysis of Patients with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Types 3 and 10 Using Inertial Measurement Units: A Comparative Study. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024:10.1007/s12311-024-01709-7. [PMID: 38869768 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-024-01709-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Given the high morbidity related to the progression of gait deficits in spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA), there is a growing interest in identifying biomarkers that can guide early diagnosis and rehabilitation. Spatiotemporal parameter (STP) gait analysis using inertial measurement units (IMUs) has been increasingly studied in this context. This study evaluated STP profiles in SCA types 3 and 10, compared them to controls, and correlated them with clinical scales. IMU portable sensors were used to measure STPs under four gait conditions: self-selected pace (SSP), fast pace (FP), fast pace checking-boxes (FPCB), and fast pace with serial seven subtractions (FPS7). Compared to healthy subjects, both SCA groups had higher values for step time, variability, and swing time, with lower values for gait speed, cadence, and step length. We also found a reduction in speed gain capacity in both SCA groups compared to controls and an increase in speed dual-task cost in the SCA10 group. However, there were no significant differences between the SCA groups. Swing time, mean speed, and step length were correlated with disease severity, risk of falling and functionality in both clinical groups. In the SCA3 group, fear of falling was correlated with cadence. In the SCA10 group, results of the Montreal cognitive assessment test were correlated with step time, mean speed, and step length. These results show that individuals with SCA3 and SCA10 present a highly variable, short-stepped, slow gait pattern compared to healthy subjects, and their gait quality worsened with a fast pace and dual-task involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Barcellos
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Clínicas, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.
| | - Clint Hansen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Giovanna Klüppel Strobel
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Clínicas, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Johanna Geritz
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Renato P Munhoz
- Gloria and Morton Shulman Movement Disorders Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mariana Moscovich
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Clínicas, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Walter Maetzler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hélio Afonso Ghizoni Teive
- Movement Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de Clínicas, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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Timm EC, Purcell NL, Ouyang B, Berry-Kravis E, Hall DA, O’Keefe JA. Potential Prodromal Digital Postural Sway Markers for Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS) Detected via Dual-Tasking and Sensory Manipulation. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:2586. [PMID: 38676203 PMCID: PMC11054629 DOI: 10.3390/s24082586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
FXTAS is a neurodegenerative disorder occurring in some Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene premutation carriers (PMCs) and is characterized by cerebellar ataxia, tremor, and cognitive deficits that negatively impact balance and gait and increase fall risk. Dual-tasking (DT) cognitive-motor paradigms and challenging balance conditions may have the capacity to reveal markers of FXTAS onset. Our objectives were to determine the impact of dual-tasking and sensory and stance manipulation on balance in FXTAS and potentially detect subtle postural sway deficits in FMR1 PMCs who are asymptomatic for signs of FXTAS on clinical exam. Participants with FXTAS, PMCs without FXTAS, and controls underwent balance testing using an inertial sensor system. Stance, vision, surface stability, and cognitive demand were manipulated in 30 s trials. FXTAS participants had significantly greater total sway area, jerk, and RMS sway than controls under almost all balance conditions but were most impaired in those requiring vestibular control. PMCs without FXTAS had significantly greater RMS sway compared with controls in the feet apart, firm, single task conditions both with eyes open and closed (EC) and the feet together, firm, EC, DT condition. Postural sway deficits in the RMS postural sway variability domain in asymptomatic PMCs might represent prodromal signs of FXTAS. This information may be useful in providing sensitive biomarkers of FXTAS onset and as quantitative balance measures in future interventional trials and longitudinal natural history studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C. Timm
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (E.C.T.); (E.B.-K.)
| | - Nicollette L. Purcell
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (E.C.T.); (E.B.-K.)
| | - Bichun Ouyang
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (B.O.); (D.A.H.)
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (E.C.T.); (E.B.-K.)
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (B.O.); (D.A.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Deborah A. Hall
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (B.O.); (D.A.H.)
| | - Joan Ann O’Keefe
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (E.C.T.); (E.B.-K.)
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (B.O.); (D.A.H.)
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Hessl D, Mandujano Rojas K, Ferrer E, Espinal G, Famula J, Schneider A, Hagerman R, Tassone F, Rivera SM. FMR1 Carriers Report Executive Function Changes Prior to Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study. Mov Disord 2024; 39:519-525. [PMID: 38124331 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29695] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men with fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) often develop executive dysfunction, characterized by disinhibition, frontal dyscontrol of movement, and working memory and attention changes. Although cross-sectional studies have suggested that earlier executive function changes may precede FXTAS, the lack of longitudinal studies has made it difficult to address this hypothesis. OBJECTIVE To determine whether executive function deterioration experienced by premutation carriers (PC) in daily life precedes and predicts FXTAS. METHODS This study included 66 FMR1 PC ranging from 40 to 78 years (mean, 59.5) and 31 well-matched healthy controls (HC) ages 40 to 75 (mean, 57.7) at baseline. Eighty-four participants returned for 2 to 5 follow up visits over a duration of 1 to 9 years (mean, 4.6); 28 of the PC developed FXTAS. The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version (BRIEF-A) was completed by participants and their spouses/partners at each visit. RESULTS Longitudinal mixed model regression analyses showed a greater decline with age in PC compared to HC on the Metacognition Index (MI; self-initiation, working memory, organization, task monitoring). Conversion to FXTAS was associated with worsening MI and Behavioral Regulation Index (BRI; inhibition, flexibility, emotion modulation). For spouse/partner report, FXTAS conversion was associated with worsening MI. Finally, increased self-report executive function problems at baseline significantly predicted later development of FXTAS. CONCLUSIONS Executive function changes experienced by male PC represent a prodrome of the later movement disorder. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hessl
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Karina Mandujano Rojas
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Emilio Ferrer
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Glenda Espinal
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Jessica Famula
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Randi Hagerman
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Flora Tassone
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California, USA
| | - Susan M Rivera
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, California, USA
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
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4
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Robertson-Dick EE, Timm EC, Pal G, Ouyang B, Liu Y, Berry-Kravis E, Hall DA, O’Keefe JA. Digital gait markers to potentially distinguish fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, Parkinson's disease, and essential tremor. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1308698. [PMID: 38162443 PMCID: PMC10755476 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1308698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), a neurodegenerative disease that affects carriers of a 55-200 CGG repeat expansion in the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene, may be given an incorrect initial diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) or essential tremor (ET) due to overlapping motor symptoms. It is critical to characterize distinct phenotypes in FXTAS compared to PD and ET to improve diagnostic accuracy. Fast as possible (FP) speed and dual-task (DT) paradigms have the potential to distinguish differences in gait performance between the three movement disorders. Therefore, we sought to compare FXTAS, PD, and ET patients using quantitative measures of functional mobility and gait under self-selected (SS) speed, FP, and DT conditions. Methods Participants with FXTAS (n = 22), PD (n = 23), ET (n = 20), and controls (n = 20) underwent gait testing with an inertial sensor system (APDM™). An instrumented Timed Up and Go test (i-TUG) was used to measure movement transitions, and a 2-min walk test (2MWT) was used to measure gait and turn variables under SS, FP, and DT conditions, and dual-task costs (DTC) were calculated. ANOVA and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed. Results PD participants had reduced stride lengths compared to FXTAS and ET participants under SS and DT conditions, longer turn duration than ET participants during the FP task, and less arm symmetry than ET participants in SS gait. They also had greater DTC for stride length and velocity compared to FXTAS participants. On the i-TUG, PD participants had reduced sit-to-stand peak velocity compared to FXTAS and ET participants. Stride length and arm symmetry index during the DT 2MWT was able to distinguish FXTAS and ET from PD, such that participants with shorter stride lengths were more likely to have a diagnosis of PD and those with greater arm asymmetry were more likely to be diagnosed with PD. No gait or i-TUG parameters distinguished FXTAS from ET participants in the regression model. Conclusion This is the first quantitative study demonstrating distinct gait and functional mobility profiles in FXTAS, PD, and ET which may assist in more accurate and timely diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Robertson-Dick
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Emily C. Timm
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Gian Pal
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Bichun Ouyang
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Yuanqing Liu
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Deborah A. Hall
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joan A. O’Keefe
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
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5
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Tassone F, Protic D, Allen EG, Archibald AD, Baud A, Brown TW, Budimirovic DB, Cohen J, Dufour B, Eiges R, Elvassore N, Gabis LV, Grudzien SJ, Hall DA, Hessl D, Hogan A, Hunter JE, Jin P, Jiraanont P, Klusek J, Kooy RF, Kraan CM, Laterza C, Lee A, Lipworth K, Losh M, Loesch D, Lozano R, Mailick MR, Manolopoulos A, Martinez-Cerdeno V, McLennan Y, Miller RM, Montanaro FAM, Mosconi MW, Potter SN, Raspa M, Rivera SM, Shelly K, Todd PK, Tutak K, Wang JY, Wheeler A, Winarni TI, Zafarullah M, Hagerman RJ. Insight and Recommendations for Fragile X-Premutation-Associated Conditions from the Fifth International Conference on FMR1 Premutation. Cells 2023; 12:2330. [PMID: 37759552 PMCID: PMC10529056 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The premutation of the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene is characterized by an expansion of the CGG trinucleotide repeats (55 to 200 CGGs) in the 5' untranslated region and increased levels of FMR1 mRNA. Molecular mechanisms leading to fragile X-premutation-associated conditions (FXPAC) include cotranscriptional R-loop formations, FMR1 mRNA toxicity through both RNA gelation into nuclear foci and sequestration of various CGG-repeat-binding proteins, and the repeat-associated non-AUG (RAN)-initiated translation of potentially toxic proteins. Such molecular mechanisms contribute to subsequent consequences, including mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal death. Clinically, premutation carriers may exhibit a wide range of symptoms and phenotypes. Any of the problems associated with the premutation can appropriately be called FXPAC. Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI), and fragile X-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (FXAND) can fall under FXPAC. Understanding the molecular and clinical aspects of the premutation of the FMR1 gene is crucial for the accurate diagnosis, genetic counseling, and appropriate management of affected individuals and families. This paper summarizes all the known problems associated with the premutation and documents the presentations and discussions that occurred at the International Premutation Conference, which took place in New Zealand in 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Tassone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA;
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA; (B.D.); (D.H.); (V.M.-C.)
| | - Dragana Protic
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Fragile X Clinic, Special Hospital for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Neurology, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Emily Graves Allen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.G.A.); (P.J.); (K.S.)
| | - Alison D. Archibald
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Genomics in Society Group, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Anna Baud
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznan, Poland; (A.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Ted W. Brown
- Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Fragile X Association of Australia, Brookvale, NSW 2100, Australia;
- NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, New York, NY 10314, USA
| | - Dejan B. Budimirovic
- Department of Psychiatry, Fragile X Clinic, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences-Child Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jonathan Cohen
- Fragile X Alliance Clinic, Melbourne, VIC 3161, Australia;
| | - Brett Dufour
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA; (B.D.); (D.H.); (V.M.-C.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children of Northern California, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA;
| | - Rachel Eiges
- Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Medical Genetics Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem 91031, Israel;
| | - Nicola Elvassore
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129 Padova, Italy; (N.E.); (C.L.)
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lidia V. Gabis
- Keshet Autism Center Maccabi Wolfson, Holon 5822012, Israel;
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Samantha J. Grudzien
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, 4148 BSRB, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.J.G.); (P.K.T.)
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Deborah A. Hall
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - David Hessl
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA; (B.D.); (D.H.); (V.M.-C.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Abigail Hogan
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (A.H.); (J.K.)
| | - Jessica Ezzell Hunter
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (J.E.H.); (S.N.P.); (M.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Peng Jin
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.G.A.); (P.J.); (K.S.)
| | - Poonnada Jiraanont
- Faculty of Medicine, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand;
| | - Jessica Klusek
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (A.H.); (J.K.)
| | - R. Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium;
| | - Claudine M. Kraan
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Diagnosis and Development, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Cecilia Laterza
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129 Padova, Italy; (N.E.); (C.L.)
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Lee
- Fragile X New Zealand, Nelson 7040, New Zealand;
| | - Karen Lipworth
- Fragile X Association of Australia, Brookvale, NSW 2100, Australia;
| | - Molly Losh
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60201, USA;
| | - Danuta Loesch
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Reymundo Lozano
- Departments of Genetics and Genomic Sciences and Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Marsha R. Mailick
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA;
| | - Apostolos Manolopoulos
- Intramural Research Program, Laboratory of Clinical Investigation, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA;
| | - Veronica Martinez-Cerdeno
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA; (B.D.); (D.H.); (V.M.-C.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children of Northern California, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA;
| | - Yingratana McLennan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children of Northern California, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA;
| | | | - Federica Alice Maria Montanaro
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Education, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Matthew W. Mosconi
- Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA;
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART), University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Sarah Nelson Potter
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (J.E.H.); (S.N.P.); (M.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Melissa Raspa
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (J.E.H.); (S.N.P.); (M.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Susan M. Rivera
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA;
| | - Katharine Shelly
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.G.A.); (P.J.); (K.S.)
| | - Peter K. Todd
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, 4148 BSRB, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (S.J.G.); (P.K.T.)
- Ann Arbor Veterans Administration Healthcare, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Katarzyna Tutak
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznan, Poland; (A.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Jun Yi Wang
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA;
| | - Anne Wheeler
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (J.E.H.); (S.N.P.); (M.R.); (A.W.)
| | - Tri Indah Winarni
- Center for Biomedical Research (CEBIOR), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang 502754, Central Java, Indonesia;
| | - Marwa Zafarullah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA;
| | - Randi J. Hagerman
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95817, USA; (B.D.); (D.H.); (V.M.-C.)
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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6
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Hessl D, Rojas KM, Ferrer E, Espinal G, Famula J, Schneider A, Elagerman R, Tassone F, Rivera SM. A Longitudinal Study of Executive Function in Daily Life in Male Fragile X Premutation Carriers and Association with FXTAS Conversion. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.08.31.23294855. [PMID: 37693384 PMCID: PMC10491369 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.31.23294855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Men with fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) often develop executive dysfunction, characterized by disinhibition, frontal dyscontrol of movement, and working memory and attention changes. Although cross-sectional studies have suggested that earlier executive function changes may precede FXTAS, the lack of longitudinal studies have made it difficult to address this hypothesis. Methods This study included 66 FMR1 premutation carriers (PC) ranging from 40-78 years (Mean=59.5) and 31 well-matched healthy controls (HC) ages 40-75 (Mean 57.7) at baseline. Eighty-four participants returned for 2-5 follow up visits over a duration of 1 to 9 years (Mean=4.6); 28 of the PC developed FXTAS. The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version (BRIEF-A) was completed by participants and their spouses/partners at each visit. Results Longitudinal mixed model regression analyses showed a greater decline with age in PC compared to HC on the Metacognition Index (MI; self-initiation, working memory, organization, task monitoring). Conversion to FXTAS was associated with worsening MI and Behavioral Regulation Index (BRI; inhibition, flexibility, emotion modulation). For spouse/partner report, FXTAS conversion was associated with worsening MI. Finally, BRIEF-A executive function problems at baseline significantly predicted later development of FXTAS. Conclusions These findings suggest that executive function changes represent a prodrome of the later movement disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hessl
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Karina Mandujano Rojas
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Emilio Ferrer
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Glenda Espinal
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Famula
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Randi Elagerman
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Flora Tassone
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California, USA
| | - Susan M. Rivera
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
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Poleur M, Markati T, Servais L. The use of digital outcome measures in clinical trials in rare neurological diseases: a systematic literature review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:224. [PMID: 37533072 PMCID: PMC10398976 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02813-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing drugs for rare diseases is challenging, and the precision and objectivity of outcome measures is critical to this process. In recent years, a number of technologies have increasingly been used for remote monitoring of patient health. We report a systematic literature review that aims to summarize the current state of progress with regard to the use of digital outcome measures for real-life motor function assessment of patients with rare neurological diseases. Our search of published literature identified 3826 records, of which 139 were included across 27 different diseases. This review shows that use of digital outcome measures for motor function outside a clinical setting is feasible and employed in a broad range of diseases, although we found few outcome measures that have been robustly validated and adopted as endpoints in clinical trials. Future research should focus on validation of devices, variables, and algorithms to allow for regulatory qualification and widespread adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaux Poleur
- Department of Neurology, Liege University Hospital Center, Liège, Belgium.
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Division of Paediatrics University, Hospital University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Centre Hospitalier Régional de la Citadelle, Boulevard du 12eme de Ligne 1, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Theodora Markati
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laurent Servais
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Division of Paediatrics University, Hospital University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Famula J, Ferrer E, Hagerman RJ, Tassone F, Schneider A, Rivera SM, Hessl D. Neuropsychological changes in FMR1 premutation carriers and onset of fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2022; 14:23. [PMID: 35321639 PMCID: PMC8942145 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09436-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Carriers of the FMR1 premutation are at increased risk of developing a late-onset progressive neurodegenerative disease, fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), characterized by intention tremor, gait ataxia, and cognitive decline. Cross-sectional studies to date have provided evidence that neuropsychological changes, such as executive function alterations, or subtle motor changes, may precede the onset of formal FXTAS, perhaps characterizing a prodromal state. However, the lack of longitudinal data has prevented the field from forming a clear picture of progression over time within individuals, and we lack consensus regarding early markers of risk and measures that may be used to track response to intervention. Methods This was a longitudinal study of 64 male FMR1 premutation carriers (Pm) without FXTAS at study entry and 30 normal controls (Nc), aged 40 to 80 years (Pm M = 60.0 years; Nc M = 57.4 years). Fifty of the Pm and 22 of the Nc were re-assessed after an average of 2.33 years, and 37 Pm and 20 Nc were re-assessed a third time after an average of another 2.15 years. Eighteen of 64 carriers (28%) converted to FXTAS during the study to date. Neuropsychological assessments at each time point, including components of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), tapped domains of episodic and working memory, inhibitory control, visual attention, planning, executive control of movement, and manual speed and dexterity. Age-based mixed models were used to examine group differences in change over time on the outcomes in the full sample, and differences were further evaluated in 15 trios (n = 45; 15 Pm “converters,” 15 Pm “nonconverters,” 15 Nc) that were one-one matched on age, education, and socioeconomic status. Results Compared to Nc, Pm showed significantly greater rates of change over time in visual working memory, motor dexterity, inhibitory control, and manual movement speed. After multiple comparison correction, significant effects remained for motor dexterity. Worsening inhibitory control and slower manual movements were related to progression in FXTAS stage, but these effects became statistically non-significant after correcting for multiple comparisons. Higher FMR1 mRNA correlated with worsening manual reaction time but did not survive multiple comparisons and no other molecular measures correlated with neuropsychological changes. Finally, trio comparisons revealed greater rate of decline in planning and manual movement speed in Pm converters compared to Pm nonconverters. Conclusions Accelerated decline in executive function and subtle motor changes, likely mediated by frontocerebellar circuits, may precede, and then track with the emergence of formal FXTAS symptoms. Further research to develop and harmonize clinical assessment of FMR1 carriers across centers is needed to prepare for future prophylactic and treatment trials for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Famula
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Emilio Ferrer
- Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Randi J Hagerman
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Flora Tassone
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Schneider
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Susan M Rivera
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Center for Mind and Brain, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - David Hessl
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis Health, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this paper is to review the prevalence, pathophysiology, and management of fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). RECENT FINDINGS The pathophysiology of FXTAS involves ribonucleic acid (RNA) toxicity due to elevated levels of the premutation-expanded CGG (eoxycytidylate-deoxyguanylate-deoxyguanylate)-repeat FMR1 mRNA, which can sequester a variety of proteins important for neuronal function. A recent analysis of the inclusions in FXTAS demonstrates elevated levels of several proteins, including small ubiquitin-related modifiers 1/2 (SUMO1/2), that target molecules for the proteasome, suggesting that some aspect(s) of proteasomal function may be altered in FXTAS. Recent neuropathological studies show that Parkinson disease and Alzheimer disease can sometimes co-occur with FXTAS. Lewy bodies can be found in 10% of the brains of patients with FXTAS. Microbleeds and iron deposition are also common in the neuropathology, in addition to white matter disease (WMD) and atrophy. SUMMARY The premutation occurs in 1:200 females and 1:400 males. Penetrance for FXTAS increases with age, though lower in females (16%) compared to over 60% of males by age 70. To diagnose FXTAS, an MRI is essential to document the presence of WMD, a primary component of the diagnostic criteria. Pain can be a significant feature of FXTAS and is seen in approximately 50% of patients.
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