1
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Aguti S, Cheng S, Ala P, Briggs S, Muntoni F, Zhou H. Strategies to improve the design of gapmer antisense oligonucleotide on allele-specific silencing. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102237. [PMID: 38993932 PMCID: PMC11238192 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) hold therapeutic promise for allele-specific silencing, but face challenges in distinguishing between mutant and wild-type transcripts. This study explores new design strategies to enhance ASO specificity, focusing on a common dominant mutation in COL6A3 gene associated with Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy. Initial gapmer ASO design exhibited high efficiency but poor specificity for the mutant allele. We then adopted a mixmer design, incorporating additional RNA bases based on computational predictions of secondary structures for both mutant and wild-type alleles, aiming to enhance ASO accessibility to mutant transcripts. The mixmer ASO design demonstrated up to a 3-fold increase in specificity compared with the classical gapmer design. Further refinement involved introducing a nucleotide mismatch as a structural modification, resulting in a 10-fold enhancement in specificity compared with the gapmer design and a 3-fold over the mixmer design. Additionally, we identified for the first time a potential role of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), alongside RNase H1, in gapmer-mediated silencing, in contrast with what was observed with mixmer ASOs, where only RNase H1 was involved. In conclusion, this study presents a novel design concept for allele-specific ASOs leveraging mRNA secondary structures and nucleotide mismatching and suggests a potential involvement of RISC in gapmer-mediated silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Aguti
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Shuzhi Cheng
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Pierpaolo Ala
- Developmental Neurosciences Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Sean Briggs
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Developmental Neurosciences Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Research and Teaching Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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2
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Wang XX, Chen WZ, Li C, Xu RS. Current potential pathogenic mechanisms of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Rev Neurosci 2024; 35:549-563. [PMID: 38381656 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2024-0010] [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: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurodegenerative disease which damages upper and lower motor neurons (UMN and LMN) innervating the muscles of the trunk, extremities, head, neck and face in cerebrum, brain stem and spinal cord, which results in the progressive weakness, atrophy and fasciculation of muscle innervated by the related UMN and LMN, accompanying with the pathological signs leaded by the cortical spinal lateral tract lesion. The pathogenesis about ALS is not fully understood, and no specific drugs are available to cure and prevent the progression of this disease at present. In this review, we reviewed the structure and associated functions of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), discuss why SOD1 is crucial to the pathogenesis of ALS, and outline the pathogenic mechanisms of SOD1 in ALS that have been identified at recent years, including glutamate-related excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, axonal transport disruption, prion-like propagation, and the non-cytologic toxicity of glial cells. This review will help us to deeply understand the current progression in this field of SOD1 pathogenic mechanisms in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Xin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Jiangxi Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wen-Zhi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Jiangxi Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Jiangxi Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ren-Shi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Jiangxi Hospital, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
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3
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Di Timoteo G, Giuliani A, Setti A, Biagi MC, Lisi M, Santini T, Grandioso A, Mariani D, Castagnetti F, Perego E, Zappone S, Lattante S, Sabatelli M, Rotili D, Vicidomini G, Bozzoni I. M 6A reduction relieves FUS-associated ALS granules. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5033. [PMID: 38866783 PMCID: PMC11169559 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49416-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease due to gradual motoneurons (MN) degeneration. Among the processes associated to ALS pathogenesis, there is the formation of cytoplasmic inclusions produced by aggregation of mutant proteins, among which the RNA binding protein FUS. Here we show that, in neuronal cells and in iPSC-derived MN expressing mutant FUS, such inclusions are significantly reduced in number and dissolve faster when the RNA m6A content is diminished. Interestingly, stress granules formed in ALS conditions showed a distinctive transcriptome with respect to control cells, which reverted to similar to control after m6A downregulation. Notably, cells expressing mutant FUS were characterized by higher m6A levels suggesting a possible link between m6A homeostasis and pathological aggregates. Finally, we show that FUS inclusions are reduced also in patient-derived fibroblasts treated with STM-2457, an inhibitor of METTL3 activity, paving the way for its possible use for counteracting aggregate formation in ALS.
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Grants
- ERC-2019-SyG 855923-ASTRA EC | EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020 | H2020 Priority Excellent Science | H2020 European Research Council (H2020 Excellent Science - European Research Council)
- ERC-2018-CoG 818669-BrightEyes EC | EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020 | H2020 Priority Excellent Science | H2020 European Research Council (H2020 Excellent Science - European Research Council)
- AIRC IG 2019 Id. 23053 Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro (Italian Association for Cancer Research)
- PRIN 2017 2017P352Z4 Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)
- NextGenerationEU PNRR MUR Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)
- "National Center for Gene Therapy and Drugbased on RNA Technology" (CN00000041) Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)
- "National Center for Gene Therapy and Drug based on RNA Technology" (CN00000041) Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)
- NextGenerationEU PNRR MUR Ministero dell'Istruzione, dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of Education, University and Research)
- "Sapienza" Ateneo Project 2021 n. RM12117A61C811CE Sapienza Università di Roma (Sapienza University of Rome)
- Regione Lazio PROGETTI DI GRUPPI DI RICERCA 2020 - A0375-2020-36597 Regione Lazio (Region of Lazio)
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Di Timoteo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Andrea Giuliani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Adriano Setti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Martina C Biagi
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science@Sapienza, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Michela Lisi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Tiziana Santini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Alessia Grandioso
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Davide Mariani
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy
| | - Francesco Castagnetti
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy
| | - Eleonora Perego
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy
| | - Sabrina Zappone
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy
| | - Serena Lattante
- Section of Genomic Medicine, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Sabatelli
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168, Rome, Italy
- Adult NEMO Clinical Center, Unit of Neurology, Department of Aging, Neurological, Orthopedic and Head-Neck Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vicidomini
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy
| | - Irene Bozzoni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00185, Italy.
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science@Sapienza, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, 00161, Italy.
- Center for Human Technologies@Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genoa, 16152, Italy.
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Bauersachs D, Bomholtz L, del Rey Mateos S, Kühn R, Lisowski P. Novel human neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disease associated with IRF2BPL gene variants-mechanisms and therapeutic avenues. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1426177. [PMID: 38903604 PMCID: PMC11187338 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1426177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently a broad range of phenotypic abnormalities related to the neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorder NEDAMSS (Neurodevelopmental Disorder with Regression, Abnormal Movements, Loss of Speech, and Seizures) have been associated with rare single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or insertion and deletion variants (Indel) in the intron-less gene IRF2BPL. Up to now, 34 patients have been identified through whole exome sequencing carrying different heterozygous pathogenic variants spanning the intron-less gene from the first polyglutamine tract at the N-terminus to the C3HC4 RING domain of the C-terminus of the protein. As a result, the phenotypic spectrum of the patients is highly heterogeneous and ranges from abnormal neurocognitive development to severe neurodegenerative courses with developmental and seizure-related encephalopathies. While the treatment of IRF2BPL-related disorders has focused on alleviating the patient's symptoms by symptomatic multidisciplinary management, there has been no prospect of entirely relieving the symptoms of the individual patients. Yet, the recent advancement of CRISPR-Cas9-derived gene editing tools, leading to the generation of base editors (BEs) and prime editors (PEs), provide an encouraging new therapeutic avenue for treating NEDAMSS and other neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, which contain SNPs or smaller Indels in post-mitotic cell populations of the central nervous system, due to its ability to generate site-specific DNA sequence modifications without creating double-stranded breaks, and recruiting the non-homologous DNA end joining repair mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bauersachs
- Genome Engineering & Disease Models, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Louise Bomholtz
- Genome Engineering & Disease Models, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Sara del Rey Mateos
- Quantitative Stem Cell Biology, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB) Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Kühn
- Genome Engineering & Disease Models, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Pawel Lisowski
- Quantitative Stem Cell Biology, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB) Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuropsychiatry Research Division, Translation and Neurotechnology Research Group, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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5
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Oliveira Santos M, de Carvalho M. Profiling tofersen as a treatment of superoxide dismutase 1 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:549-553. [PMID: 38758193 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2355983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder with a fatal outcome 3-5 years after disease onset due to respiratory complications. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations are found in about 2% of all patients. Tofersen is a novel oligonucleotide antisense drug specifically developed to treat SOD1-ALS patients. AREAS COVERED Our review covers and discusses tofersen pharmacological properties and its phase I/II and III clinical trials results. Other available drugs and their limitations are also addressed. EXPERT OPINION VALOR study failed to meet the primary endpoint (change in the revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale score from baseline to week 28, tofersen arm vs. placebo), but a significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels was observed in tofersen arm (60% vs. 20%). PrefALS study has proposed plasma NfL has a potential biomarker for presymptomatic treatment, since it increases 6-12 months before phenoconversion. There is probably a delay between plasma NfL reduction and the clinical benefit. ATLAS study will allow more insights regarding tofersen clinical efficacy in disease progression rate, survival, and even disease onset delay in presymptomatic SOD1 carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Oliveira Santos
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
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6
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Huang M, Liu YU, Yao X, Qin D, Su H. Variability in SOD1-associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: geographic patterns, clinical heterogeneity, molecular alterations, and therapeutic implications. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:28. [PMID: 38811997 PMCID: PMC11138100 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00416-x] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons, resulting in global health burden and limited post-diagnosis life expectancy. Although primarily sporadic, familial ALS (fALS) cases suggest a genetic basis. This review focuses on SOD1, the first gene found to be associated with fALS, which has been more recently confirmed by genome sequencing. While informative, databases such as ALSoD and STRENGTH exhibit regional biases. Through a systematic global examination of SOD1 mutations from 1993 to 2023, we found different geographic distributions and clinical presentations. Even though different SOD1 variants are expressed at different protein levels and have different half-lives and dismutase activities, these alterations lead to loss of function that is not consistently correlated with disease severity. Gain of function of toxic aggregates of SOD1 resulting from mutated SOD1 has emerged as one of the key contributors to ALS. Therapeutic interventions specifically targeting toxic gain of function of mutant SOD1, including RNA interference and antibodies, show promise, but a cure remains elusive. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on SOD1-associated ALS and describes molecular features and the complex genetic landscape of SOD1, highlighting its importance in determining diverse clinical manifestations observed in ALS patients and emphasizing the need for personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaodan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yong U Liu
- Laboratory for Neuroimmunology in Health and Diseases, Guangzhou First People's Hospital School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Yao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Dajiang Qin
- Key Laboratory of Biological Targeting Diagnosis, Therapy and Rehabilitation of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510799, China.
| | - Huanxing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
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7
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Castelli L, Vasta R, Allen SP, Waller R, Chiò A, Traynor BJ, Kirby J. From use of omics to systems biology: Identifying therapeutic targets for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:209-268. [PMID: 38802176 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous progressive neurodegenerative disorder with available treatments such as riluzole and edaravone extending survival by an average of 3-6 months. The lack of highly effective, widely available therapies reflects the complexity of ALS. Omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomic and proteomics have contributed to the identification of biological pathways dysregulated and targeted by therapeutic strategies in preclinical and clinical trials. Integrating clinical, environmental and neuroimaging information with omics data and applying a systems biology approach can further improve our understanding of the disease with the potential to stratify patients and provide more personalised medicine. This chapter will review the omics technologies that contribute to a systems biology approach and how these components have assisted in identifying therapeutic targets. Current strategies, including the use of genetic screening and biosampling in clinical trials, as well as the future application of additional technological advances, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Castelli
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rosario Vasta
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Scott P Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Waller
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neurology 1, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States; RNA Therapeutics Laboratory, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, MD, United States; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States; Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology,University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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8
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Colognesi M, Shkodra A, Gabbia D, Kawamata H, Manfredi PL, Manfredi G, De Martin S. Sex-dependent effects of the uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist REL-1017 in G93A-SOD1 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1384829. [PMID: 38765264 PMCID: PMC11100767 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1384829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by the demise of motor neurons has been linked to excitotoxicity caused by excessive calcium influx via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), suggesting that uncompetitive NMDAR antagonism could be a strategy to attenuate motor neuron degeneration. REL-1017, the dextro-isomer of racemic methadone, is a low-affinity uncompetitive NMDAR antagonist. Importantly, in humans REL-1017 has shown excellent tolerability in clinical trials for major depression. Methods Here, we tested if REL-1017 improves the disease phenotypes in the G93A SOD1 mouse, a well-established model of familial ALS, by examining survival and motor functions, as well as the expression of genes and proteins involved in neuroplasticity. Results We found a sex-dependent effect of REL-1017 in G93A SOD1 mice. A delay of ALS symptom onset, assessed as 10%-decrease of body weight (p < 0.01 vs. control untreated mice) and an extension of lifespan (p < 0.001 vs. control untreated mice) was observed in male G93A SOD1 mice. Female G93A SOD1 mice treated with REL-1017 showed an improvement of muscle strength (p < 0.01 vs. control untreated mice). Both males and females treated with REL-1017 showed a decrease in hind limb clasping. Sex-dependent effects of REL-1017 were also detected in molecular markers of neuronal plasticity (PSD95 and SYN1) in the spinal cord and in the GluN1 NMDAR subunit in quadricep muscles. Conclusion In conclusion, this study provides preclinical in vivo evidence supporting the clinical evaluation of REL-1017 in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colognesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Atea Shkodra
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Hibiki Kawamata
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Giovanni Manfredi
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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9
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Kayki-Mutlu G, Aksoyalp ZS, Wojnowski L, Michel MC. A year in pharmacology: new drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2023. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:2949-2970. [PMID: 38530400 PMCID: PMC11074039 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03063-1] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
With 54 new drugs and seven cellular and gene therapy products, the approvals by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recovered 2023 from the 2022 dent back to the levels of 2020-2021. As in previous years of this annual review, we assign these new drugs to one of three levels of innovation: first drug against a condition ("first-in-indication"), first drug using a novel molecular mechanism ("first-in-class"), and "next-in-class," i.e., a drug using an already exploited molecular mechanism. We identify four (7%) "first-in-indication," 22 (36%) "first-in-class," and 35 (57%) "next-in-class" drugs. By treatment area, rare diseases (54%) and cancer drugs (23%) were once again the most prevalent (and partly overlapping) therapeutic areas. Other continuing trends were the use of accelerated regulatory approval pathways and the reliance on biopharmaceuticals (biologics). 2023 marks the approval of a first therapy based on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Kayki-Mutlu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Zinnet Sevval Aksoyalp
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Leszek Wojnowski
- Department of Pharmacology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55118, Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin C Michel
- Department of Pharmacology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55118, Mainz, Germany.
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10
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Ansari U, Alam M, Nadora D, Muttalib Z, Chen V, Taguinod I, FitzPatrick M, Wen J, Ansari Z, Lui F. Assessing the efficacy of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis drugs in slowing disease progression: A literature review. AIMS Neurosci 2024; 11:166-177. [PMID: 38988889 PMCID: PMC11230861 DOI: 10.3934/neuroscience.2024010] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal and intricate neurodegenerative disease that impacts upper and lower motor neurons within the central nervous system, leading to their progressive destruction. Despite extensive research, the pathogenesis of this multifaceted disease remains elusive. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for seven medications designed to address ALS and mitigate its associated symptoms. These FDA-sanctioned treatments are Qalsody, Relyvrio, Radicava, Rilutek, Tiglutik, Exservan, and Nuedexta. In this review, the effects of these seven drugs on ALS based on their mechanism of action, dosing, and clinical presentations are comprehensively summarized. Each medication offers a distinct approach to manage ALS, aiming to alleviate the burdensome symptoms and slow the disease's progression, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this neurological condition. However, despite these advancements in pharmaceutical interventions, finding a definitive cure for ALS remains a significant challenge. Continuous investigation into ALS pathophysiology and therapeutic avenues remains imperative, necessitating further research collaborations and innovative approaches to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying this debilitating condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ubaid Ansari
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Meraj Alam
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Dawnica Nadora
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Vincent Chen
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | | | | | - Jimmy Wen
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Zaid Ansari
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
| | - Forshing Lui
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, USA
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11
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Giri PM, Banerjee A, Ghosal A, Layek B. Neuroinflammation in Neurodegenerative Disorders: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3995. [PMID: 38612804 PMCID: PMC11011898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073995] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) have become increasingly common during the past three decades. Approximately 15% of the total population of the world is affected by some form of NDs, resulting in physical and cognitive disability. The most common NDs include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington's disease. Although NDs are caused by a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle variables, neuroinflammation is known to be associated with all NDs, often leading to permanent damage to neurons of the central nervous system. Furthermore, numerous emerging pieces of evidence have demonstrated that inflammation not only supports the progression of NDs but can also serve as an initiator. Hence, various medicines capable of preventing or reducing neuroinflammation have been investigated as ND treatments. While anti-inflammatory medicine has shown promising benefits in several preclinical models, clinical outcomes are often questionable. In this review, we discuss various NDs with their current treatment strategies, the role of neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of NDs, and the use of anti-inflammatory agents as a potential therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paras Mani Giri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Human Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
| | - Anurag Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Human Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
| | - Arpita Ghosal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Human Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
| | - Buddhadev Layek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Human Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
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12
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Pota V, Sansone P, De Sarno S, Aurilio C, Coppolino F, Barbarisi M, Barbato F, Fiore M, Cosenza G, Passavanti MB, Pace MC. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Pain: A Narrative Review from Pain Assessment to Therapy. Behav Neurol 2024; 2024:1228194. [PMID: 38524401 PMCID: PMC10960655 DOI: 10.1155/2024/1228194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent neurodegenerative disease of the motor system that affects upper and lower motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness, spasticity, atrophy, and respiratory failure, with a life expectancy of 2-5 years after symptom onset. In addition to motor symptoms, patients with ALS have a multitude of nonmotor symptoms; in fact, it is currently considered a multisystem disease. The purpose of our narrative review is to evaluate the different types of pain, the correlation between pain and the disease's stages, the pain assessment tools in ALS patients, and the available therapies focusing above all on the benefits of cannabis use. Pain is an underestimated and undertreated symptom that, in the last few years, has received more attention from research because it has a strong impact on the quality of life of these patients. The prevalence of pain is between 15% and 85% of ALS patients, and the studies on the type and intensity of pain are controversial. The absence of pain assessment tools validated in the ALS population and the dissimilar study designs influence the knowledge of ALS pain and consequently the pharmacological therapy. Several studies suggest that ALS is associated with changes in the endocannabinoid system, and the use of cannabis could slow the disease progression due to its neuroprotective action and act on pain, spasticity, cramps, sialorrhea, and depression. Our research has shown high patients' satisfaction with the use of cannabis for the treatment of spasticity and related pain. However, especially due to the ethical problems and the lack of interest of pharmaceutical companies, further studies are needed to ensure the most appropriate care for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Pota
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Sansone
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara De Sarno
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Aurilio
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Coppolino
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Manlio Barbarisi
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marco Fiore
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Cosenza
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Passavanti
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Pace
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialistic Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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13
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Zerr I, Ladogana A, Mead S, Hermann P, Forloni G, Appleby BS. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and other prion diseases. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:14. [PMID: 38424082 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00497-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Prion diseases share common clinical and pathological characteristics such as spongiform neuronal degeneration and deposition of an abnormal form of a host-derived protein, termed prion protein. The characteristic features of prion diseases are long incubation times, short clinical courses, extreme resistance of the transmissible agent to degradation and lack of nucleic acid involvement. Sporadic and genetic forms of prion diseases occur worldwide, of which genetic forms are associated with mutations in PRNP. Human to human transmission of these diseases has occurred due to iatrogenic exposure, and zoonotic forms of prion diseases are linked to bovine disease. Significant progress has been made in the diagnosis of these disorders. Clinical tools for diagnosis comprise brain imaging and cerebrospinal fluid tests. Aggregation assays for detection of the abnormally folded prion protein have a clear potential to diagnose the disease in peripherally accessible biofluids. After decades of therapeutic nihilism, new treatment strategies and clinical trials are on the horizon. Although prion diseases are relatively rare disorders, understanding their pathogenesis and mechanisms of prion protein misfolding has significantly enhanced the field in research of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Zerr
- National Reference Center for CJD Surveillance, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg August University, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Anna Ladogana
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Simon Mead
- MRC Prion Unit at UCL, Institute of Prion Diseases, London, UK
| | - Peter Hermann
- National Reference Center for CJD Surveillance, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gianluigi Forloni
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Brian S Appleby
- Departments of Neurology, Psychiatry and Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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14
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Tashima T. Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC)-Based Drug Delivery into the Brain across the Blood-Brain Barrier. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:289. [PMID: 38399342 PMCID: PMC10891589 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020289] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
At present, stem cell-based therapies using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being used to explore the potential for regenerative medicine in the treatment of various diseases, owing to their ability for multilineage differentiation. Interestingly, MSCs are employed not only in regenerative medicine, but also as carriers for drug delivery, homing to target sites in injured or damaged tissues including the brain by crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In drug research and development, membrane impermeability is a serious problem. The development of central nervous system drugs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, remains difficult due to impermeability in capillary endothelial cells at the BBB, in addition to their complicated pathogenesis and pathology. Thus, intravenously or intraarterially administered MSC-mediated drug delivery in a non-invasive way is a solution to this transendothelial problem at the BBB. Substances delivered by MSCs are divided into artificially included materials in advance, such as low molecular weight compounds including doxorubicin, and expected protein expression products of genetic modification, such as interleukins. After internalizing into the brain through the fenestration between the capillary endothelial cells, MSCs release their cargos to the injured brain cells. In this review, I introduce the potential and advantages of drug delivery into the brain across the BBB using MSCs as a carrier that moves into the brain as if they acted of their own will.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Tashima
- Tashima Laboratories of Arts and Sciences, 1239-5 Toriyama-cho, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama 222-0035, Japan
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15
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Al Shaer D, Al Musaimi O, Albericio F, de la Torre BG. 2023 FDA TIDES (Peptides and Oligonucleotides) Harvest. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:243. [PMID: 38399458 PMCID: PMC10893093 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020243] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
A total of nine TIDES (pepTIDES and oligonucleoTIDES) were approved by the FDA during 2023. The four approved oligonucleotides are indicated for various types of disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, geographic atrophy, primary hyperoxaluria type 1, and polyneuropathy of hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis. All oligonucleotides show chemically modified structures to enhance their stability and therapeutic effectiveness as antisense or aptamer oligomers. Some of them demonstrate various types of conjugation to driving ligands. The approved peptides comprise various structures, including linear, cyclic, and lipopeptides, and have diverse applications. Interestingly, the FDA has granted its first orphan drug designation for a peptide-based drug as a highly selective chemokine antagonist. Furthermore, Rett syndrome has found its first-ever core symptoms treatment, which is also peptide-based. Here, we analyze the TIDES approved in 2023 on the basis of their chemical structure, medical target, mode of action, administration route, and common adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danah Al Shaer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Evotec (UK) Ltd., Abingdon OX14 4R, UK
| | - Othman Al Musaimi
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Fernando Albericio
- School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- CIBER-BBN, Networking Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Beatriz G de la Torre
- KRISP, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
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16
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Saini A, Chawla PA. Breaking barriers with tofersen: Enhancing therapeutic opportunities in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16140. [PMID: 37975798 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16140] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects adults, characterized by muscle weakness resulting from the specific death of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain. The pathogenesis of ALS is associated with the accumulation of mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) proteins and neurofilaments in motor neurons, highlighting the critical need for disease-modifying treatments. Current therapies, such as riluzole and edaravone, provide only symptomatic relief. Recently, tofersen gained approval from the US FDA under the brand name Qalsody as the first and only gene therapy for ALS, addressing a significant pathological aspect of the disease. METHODS We carried out a literature survey using PubMed, Scopus, National Institutes of Health, and Biogen for articles published in the English language concerned with "amyotrophic lateral sclerosis", pathophysiology, current treatment, treatment under clinical trial, and the newly approved drug "tofersen" and its detailed summary. RESULTS A comprehensive review of the literature on the pathophysiology, available treatment, and newly approved drug for this condition revealed convincing evidence that we are now able to better monitor and treat ALS. CONCLUSIONS Although treatment of ALS is difficult, the newly approved drug tofersen has emerged as a potential therapy to slow down the progression of ALS by targeting SOD1 mRNA, representing a significant advancement in the treatment of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniket Saini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Pooja A Chawla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
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17
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Lauffer MC, van Roon-Mom W, Aartsma-Rus A. Possibilities and limitations of antisense oligonucleotide therapies for the treatment of monogenic disorders. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2024; 4:6. [PMID: 38182878 PMCID: PMC10770028 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00419-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are incredibly versatile molecules that can be designed to specifically target and modify RNA transcripts to slow down or halt rare genetic disease progression. They offer the potential to target groups of patients or can be tailored for individual cases. Nonetheless, not all genetic variants and disorders are amenable to ASO-based treatments, and hence, it is important to consider several factors before embarking on the drug development journey. Here, we discuss which genetic disorders have the potential to benefit from a specific type of ASO approach, based on the pathophysiology of the disease and pathogenic variant type, as well as those disorders that might not be suitable for ASO therapies. We further explore additional aspects, such as the target tissues, intervention time points, and potential clinical benefits, which need to be considered before developing a compound. Overall, we provide an overview of the current potentials and limitations of ASO-based therapeutics for the treatment of monogenic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlen C Lauffer
- Dutch Center for RNA Therapeutics, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Willeke van Roon-Mom
- Dutch Center for RNA Therapeutics, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Dutch Center for RNA Therapeutics, Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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18
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Rezvykh A, Shteinberg D, Bronovitsky E, Ustyugov A, Funikov S. Animal Models of FUS-Proteinopathy: A Systematic Review. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:S34-S56. [PMID: 38621743 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924140037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Mutations that disrupt the function of the DNA/RNA-binding protein FUS could cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. One of the key features in ALS pathogenesis is the formation of insoluble protein aggregates containing aberrant isoforms of the FUS protein in the cytoplasm of upper and lower motor neurons. Reproduction of human pathology in animal models is the main tool for studying FUS-associated pathology and searching for potential therapeutic agents for ALS treatment. In this review, we provide a systematic analysis of the role of FUS protein in ALS pathogenesis and an overview of the results of modelling FUS-proteinopathy in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Rezvykh
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Daniil Shteinberg
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russia
| | | | - Aleksey Ustyugov
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds, Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russia
| | - Sergei Funikov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
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19
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Stringer RN, Weiss N. Pathophysiology of ion channels in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Brain 2023; 16:82. [PMID: 38102715 PMCID: PMC10722804 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-023-01070-6] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) stands as the most prevalent and severe form of motor neuron disease, affecting an estimated 2 in 100,000 individuals worldwide. It is characterized by the progressive loss of cortical, brainstem, and spinal motor neurons, ultimately resulting in muscle weakness and death. Although the etiology of ALS remains poorly understood in most cases, the remodelling of ion channels and alteration in neuronal excitability represent a hallmark of the disease, manifesting not only during the symptomatic period but also in the early pre-symptomatic stages. In this review, we delve into these alterations observed in ALS patients and preclinical disease models, and explore their consequences on neuronal activities. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of ion channels as therapeutic targets in the context of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin N Stringer
- Department of Pathophysiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Norbert Weiss
- Department of Pathophysiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Center of Biosciences, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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20
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Okano H, Morimoto S, Kato C, Nakahara J, Takahashi S. Induced pluripotent stem cells-based disease modeling, drug screening, clinical trials, and reverse translational research for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurochem 2023; 167:603-614. [PMID: 37952981 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16005] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
It has been more than 10 years since the hopes for disease modeling and drug discovery using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology boomed. Recently, clinical trials have been conducted with drugs identified using this technology, and some promising results have been reported. For amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating neurodegenerative disease, several groups have identified candidate drugs, ezogabine (retigabine), bosutinib, and ropinirole, using iPSCs-based drug discovery, and clinical trials using these drugs have been conducted, yielding interesting results. In our previous study, an iPSCs-based drug repurposing approach was utilized to show the potential of ropinirole hydrochloride (ROPI) in reducing ALS-specific pathological phenotypes. Recently, a phase 1/2a trial was conducted to investigate the effects of ropinirole on ALS further. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study confirmed the safety and tolerability of and provided evidence of its ability to delay disease progression and prolong the time to respiratory failure in ALS patients. Furthermore, in the reverse translational research, in vitro characterization of patient-derived iPSCs-motor neurons (MNs) mimicked the therapeutic effects of ROPI in vivo, suggesting the potential application of this technology to the precision medicine of ALS. Interestingly, RNA-seq data showed that ROPI treatment suppressed the sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2-dependent cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Therefore, this pathway may be involved in the therapeutic effect of ROPI on ALS. The possibility that this pathway may be involved in the therapeutic effect of ALS was demonstrated. Finally, new future strategies for ALS using iPSCs technology will be discussed in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Morimoto
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chris Kato
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jin Nakahara
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Takahashi
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology and Stroke, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
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21
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Blaudin de Thé FX, Baudier C, Andrade Pereira R, Lefebvre C, Moingeon P. Transforming drug discovery with a high-throughput AI-powered platform: A 5-year experience with Patrimony. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103772. [PMID: 37717933 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103772] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
High-throughput computational platforms are being established to accelerate drug discovery. Servier launched the Patrimony platform to harness computational sciences and artificial intelligence (AI) to integrate massive multimodal data from internal and external sources. Patrimony has enabled researchers to prioritize therapeutic targets based on a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of immuno-inflammatory diseases. Herein, we share our experience regarding main challenges and critical success factors faced when industrializing the platform and broadening its applications to neurological diseases. We emphasize the importance of integrating such platforms in an end-to-end drug discovery process and engaging human experts early on to ensure a transforming impact.
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22
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Hill AC, Becker JP, Slominski D, Halloy F, Søndergaard C, Ravn J, Hall J. Peptide Conjugates of a 2'- O-Methoxyethyl Phosphorothioate Splice-Switching Oligonucleotide Show Increased Entrapment in Endosomes. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:40463-40481. [PMID: 37929104 PMCID: PMC10620785 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are short, single-stranded nucleic acid molecules that alter gene expression. However, their transport into appropriate cellular compartments is a limiting factor in their potency. Here, we synthesized splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) previously developed to treat the rare disease erythropoietic protoporphyria. Using chemical ligation-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (CL-qPCR), we quantified the SSOs in cells and subcellular compartments following free uptake. To drive nuclear localization, we covalently conjugated nuclear localization signal (NLS) peptides to a lead 2'-O-methoxyethyl phosphorothioate SSO using thiol-maleimide chemistry. The conjugates and parent SSO displayed similar RNA target-binding affinities. CL-qPCR quantification of the conjugates in cells and subcellular compartments following free uptake revealed one conjugate with better nuclear accumulation relative to the parent SSO. However, compared to the parent SSO, which altered the splicing of the target pre-mRNA, the conjugates were inactive at splice correction under free uptake conditions in vitro. Splice-switching activity could be conferred on the conjugates by delivering them into cells via cationic lipid-mediated transfection or by treating the cells into which the conjugates had been freely taken up with chloroquine, an endosome-disrupting agent. Our results identify the major barrier to the activity of the peptide-oligonucleotide conjugates as endosomal entrapment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C. Hill
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
(ETH Zürich), Zürich 8093, Switzerland
| | - J. Philipp Becker
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
(ETH Zürich), Zürich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Daria Slominski
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
(ETH Zürich), Zürich 8093, Switzerland
| | - François Halloy
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
(ETH Zürich), Zürich 8093, Switzerland
| | | | - Jacob Ravn
- Roche
Innovation Center Copenhagen (RICC), Hørsholm 2970, Denmark
| | - Jonathan Hall
- Institute
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich
(ETH Zürich), Zürich 8093, Switzerland
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23
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Carrera-Juliá S, Estrela JM, Zacarés M, Navarro MÁ, Vega-Bello MJ, de la Rubia Ortí JE, Moreno ML, Drehmer E. Effect of the Mediterranean diet supplemented with nicotinamide riboside and pterostilbene and/or coconut oil on anthropometric variables in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A pilot study. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1232184. [PMID: 37810917 PMCID: PMC10556480 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1232184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the death of motor neurons and alters patients' body composition. Supplementation with the antioxidants nicotinamide riboside (NR) and pterostilbene (PTER) can combat associated oxidative stress. Additionally, coconut oil is an alternative energy substrate that can address mitochondrial dysfunction. The aim of the present study is to assess the impact of a Mediterranean Diet supplemented with NR and PTER and/or with coconut oil on the anthropometric variables of patients with ALS. A prospective, mixed, randomized, analytical and experimental pilot study in humans was performed through a clinical trial (registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under number NCT03489200) with pre- and post-intervention assessments. The sample was made up of 40 subjects categorized into four study groups (Control, Antioxidants, Coconut oil, and Antioxidants + Coconut oil). Pre- and post-intervention anthropometric assessments were carried out to determine the following data: weight, percentage of fat and muscle mass, skinfolds, body perimeters, Body Mass Index (BMI), Waste-to-Hip Index (WHI) and Waist-Height Ratio (WHR). Compared to the Control group, GAx significantly increased muscle mass percentage and decreased fat mass percentage, triceps, iliac crest, and abdominal skinfolds. GCoco significantly increased muscle mass percentage and decreased fat mass percentage, subscapular skinfolds, and abdominal skinfolds. GAx + coco significantly increased muscle mass percentage and decreased abdominal skinfolds. Therefore, our results suggest that the Mediterranean Diet supplemented with NR and PTER and the Mediterranean Diet supplemented with coconut oil (ketogenic diet) are the two nutritional interventions that have reported the greatest benefits, at anthropometric level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Carrera-Juliá
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | - José M. Estrela
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mario Zacarés
- Department of Basic and Transversal Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mari Ángeles Navarro
- Department of Basic and Transversal Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Jesús Vega-Bello
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Mari Luz Moreno
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
| | - Eraci Drehmer
- Department of Health and Functional Assessment, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, Valencia, Spain
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Angelopoulou E, Pyrgelis ES, Ahire C, Suman P, Mishra A, Piperi C. Functional Implications of Protein Arginine Methyltransferases (PRMTs) in Neurodegenerative Diseases. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1257. [PMID: 37759656 PMCID: PMC10525691 DOI: 10.3390/biology12091257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
During the aging of the global population, the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases will be continuously growing. Although each disorder is characterized by disease-specific protein accumulations, several common pathophysiological mechanisms encompassing both genetic and environmental factors have been detected. Among them, protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs), which catalyze the methylation of arginine of various substrates, have been revealed to regulate several cellular mechanisms, including neuronal cell survival and excitability, axonal transport, synaptic maturation, and myelination. Emerging evidence highlights their critical involvement in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), frontotemporal dementia-amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FTD-ALS) spectrum, Huntington's disease (HD), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA). Underlying mechanisms include the regulation of gene transcription and RNA splicing, as well as their implication in various signaling pathways related to oxidative stress responses, apoptosis, neuroinflammation, vacuole degeneration, abnormal protein accumulation and neurotransmission. The targeting of PRMTs is a therapeutic approach initially developed against various forms of cancer but currently presents a novel potential strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the accumulating evidence on the role of PRMTs in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, enlightening their pathogenesis and stimulating future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Angelopoulou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.A.); (E.-S.P.)
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Efstratios-Stylianos Pyrgelis
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.A.); (E.-S.P.)
| | - Chetana Ahire
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, Kamrup 781101, Assam, India; (C.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Prachi Suman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, Kamrup 781101, Assam, India; (C.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Awanish Mishra
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Guwahati, Changsari, Kamrup 781101, Assam, India; (C.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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