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Zhang W, Li X, Yu U, Huang X, Wang H, Lu Y, Liu S, Zhang J. Genome-wide methylation and gene-expression analyses in thalassemia. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:11591-11605. [PMID: 39133159 PMCID: PMC11346785 DOI: 10.18632/aging.206037] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Thalassemia is the most common autosomal genetic disorder in humans. The pathogenesis of thalassemia is principally due to the deletion or mutation of globin genes that then leads to disorders in globin-chain synthesis, and its predominant clinical manifestations include chronic forms of hemolytic anemia. However, research on the epigenetics and underlying pathogenesis of thalassemia is in its nascency and not yet been systematically realized. In this study, we compared the results of RNA-seq and the whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) on 22 peripheral blood samples from 14 thalassemic patients and eight healthy individuals revealed a genome-wide methylation landscape of differentially methylated regions (DMRs). And functional-enrichment analysis revealed the enriched biological pathways with respect to the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) to include hematopoietic lineage, glucose metabolism, and ribosome. To further analyze the interaction between the transcriptome and methylome, we implemented a comprehensive analysis of overlaps between DEGs and DMGs, and observed that biological processes significantly enriched the immune-related genes (i.e., our hypermethylated and down-regulated gene group). Hypermethylated and hypomethylated regions of thalassemia-related genes exhibited different distribution patterns. We thus, further identified and validated thalassemia-associated DMGs and DEGs by multi-omics integrative analyses of DNA methylation and transcriptomics data, and provided a comprehensive genomic map of thalassemia that will facilitate the exploration of the epigenetics mechanisms and pathogenesis underlying thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Health and Precision Medicine, School of Public Health and Emergency Management, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaokang Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Hongkong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, Guangdong, China
| | - Uet Yu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Huang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Lu
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Sixi Liu
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
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Drahos J, Boateng-Kuffour A, Calvert M, Levine L, Dongha N, Li N, Pakbaz Z, Shah F, Martin AP. Health-Related Quality-of-Life Impacts Associated with Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia in the USA and UK: A Qualitative Assessment. THE PATIENT 2024; 17:421-439. [PMID: 38530509 PMCID: PMC11189963 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-024-00678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals living with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) experience reduced health-related quality of life due to fatigue and chronic pain, which cause disruptions to daily life. Currently, limited qualitative data exist that describe these impacts. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the ways in which symptoms and current treatments of TDT impact health-related quality of life, to holistically describe the humanistic burden of TDT, and to identify the unmet needs of individuals living with TDT. METHODS Adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with TDT and caregivers of adolescents (aged 12‒17 years) with TDT participated in semi-structured one-on-one virtual interviews and focus group discussions. Interviews were conducted in the USA and UK and lasted approximately 60 minutes. After transcription, the interviews were analyzed thematically using a framework approach. RESULTS A total of ten interviews/focus group discussions (six interviews and four focus group discussions) were conducted with 14 adults with TDT and two caregivers of adolescents with TDT. A framework analysis revealed five themes describing health-related quality of life (negative impacts on daily activities, social life, family life, work and education, and psychological well-being) and three themes describing the lived experience of TDT (impact of red blood cell transfusions and iron chelation therapy, treatment, and stigma). Physical, psychological, and treatment-related factors contributed to negative impacts on daily activities, social and family life, and work and education. Concerns about reduced lifespan, relationships and family planning, and financial independence were detrimental to participants' mental well-being. Participants reported having high resilience to the many physical and psychological challenges of living with TDT. A lack of TDT-specific knowledge among healthcare professionals, particularly regarding chronic pain associated with the disease, left some participants feeling ignored or undermined. Additionally, many participants experienced stigma and were reluctant to disclose their disease to others. CONCLUSIONS Individuals living with TDT experience substantial negative impacts on health-related quality of life that disrupt their daily lives, disruptions that are intensified by inadequate healthcare interactions, demanding treatment schedules, and stigma. Our study highlights the unmet needs of individuals living with TDT, especially for alternative treatments that reduce or eliminate the need for red blood cell transfusions and iron chelation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Drahos
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, 50 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210, USA.
| | | | - Melanie Calvert
- Centre for Patient-Reported Outcomes Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration, West Midlands, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Precision Transplant and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Nanxin Li
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, 50 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210, USA
| | - Zahra Pakbaz
- Division of Hematology Oncology, University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Orange, CA, USA
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Ling L, Wang F, Li Y, He S, Wu F, Yang L, Xu L, Wang T, Zhou S, Yang F, Wei Z, Yang L, Yang Z, Fang X, Zhou Y, Xue J, Yin X, Wei H, Yu D. Depletion of miR-144/451 alleviates anemia in β-thalassemic mice. Blood Adv 2024; 8:2565-2570. [PMID: 37285799 PMCID: PMC11145754 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ling
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, Yangzhou University Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yaoyao Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sheng He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Shuting Zhou
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zichen Wei
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Fang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yali Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The 923 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jun Xue
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolin Yin
- Department of Hematology, The 923 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hongwei Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Duonan Yu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Chueh HW, Shim YJ, Jung HL, Kim N, Hwang SM, Kim M, Choi HS. Current Status of Molecular Diagnosis of Hereditary Hemolytic Anemia in Korea. J Korean Med Sci 2024; 39:e162. [PMID: 38742293 PMCID: PMC11091231 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2024.39.e162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemolytic anemia (HHA) is considered a group of rare hematological diseases in Korea, primarily because of its unique ethnic characteristics and diagnostic challenges. Recently, the prevalence of HHA has increased in Korea, reflecting the increasing number of international marriages and increased awareness of the disease. In particular, the diagnosis of red blood cell (RBC) enzymopathy experienced a resurgence, given the advances in diagnostic techniques. In 2007, the RBC Disorder Working Party of the Korean Society of Hematology developed the Korean Standard Operating Procedure for the Diagnosis of Hereditary Hemolytic Anemia, which has been continuously updated since then. The latest Korean clinical practice guidelines for diagnosing HHA recommends performing next-generation sequencing as a preliminary step before analyzing RBC membrane proteins and enzymes. Recent breakthroughs in molecular genetic testing methods, particularly next-generation sequencing, are proving critical in identifying and providing insight into cases of HHA with previously unknown diagnoses. These innovative molecular genetic testing methods have now become important tools for the management and care planning of patients with HHA. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in molecular genetic testing for the diagnosis of HHA, with particular emphasis on the Korean context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Won Chueh
- Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Ye Jee Shim
- Department of Pediatrics, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hye Lim Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Namhee Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Sang Mee Hwang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Myungshin Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Hyoung Soo Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea.
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Salimi Z, Afsharinasab M, Rostami M, Eshaghi Milasi Y, Mousavi Ezmareh SF, Sakhaei F, Mohammad-Sadeghipour M, Rasooli Manesh SM, Asemi Z. Iron chelators: as therapeutic agents in diseases. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2759-2776. [PMID: 38694398 PMCID: PMC11060230 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The concentration of iron is tightly regulated, making it an essential element. Various cellular processes in the body rely on iron, such as oxygen sensing, oxygen transport, electron transfer, and DNA synthesis. Iron excess can be toxic because it participates in redox reactions that catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species and elevate oxidative stress. Iron chelators are chemically diverse; they can coordinate six ligands in an octagonal sequence. Because of the ability of chelators to trap essential metals, including iron, they may be involved in diseases caused by oxidative stress, such as infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Iron-chelating agents, by tightly binding to iron, prohibit it from functioning as a catalyst in redox reactions and transfer iron and excrete it from the body. Thus, the use of iron chelators as therapeutic agents has received increasing attention. This review investigates the function of various iron chelators in treating iron overload in different clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Salimi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Mehdi Afsharinasab
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran
| | - Mehdi Rostami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad
| | - Yaser Eshaghi Milasi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Seyedeh Fatemeh Mousavi Ezmareh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Fariba Sakhaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan
| | - Maryam Mohammad-Sadeghipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Afzalipoor Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman
| | | | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
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Vadolas J, Nualkaew T, Voon HPJ, Vilcassim S, Grigoriadis G. Interplay between α-thalassemia and β-hemoglobinopathies: Translating genotype-phenotype relationships into therapies. Hemasphere 2024; 8:e78. [PMID: 38752170 PMCID: PMC11094674 DOI: 10.1002/hem3.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
α-Thalassemia represents one of the most important genetic modulators of β-hemoglobinopathies. During this last decade, the ongoing interest in characterizing genotype-phenotype relationships has yielded incredible insights into α-globin gene regulation and its impact on β-hemoglobinopathies. In this review, we provide a holistic update on α-globin gene expression stemming from DNA to RNA to protein, as well as epigenetic mechanisms that can impact gene expression and potentially influence phenotypic outcomes. Here, we highlight defined α-globin targeted strategies and rationalize the use of distinct molecular targets based on the restoration of balanced α/β-like globin chain synthesis. Considering the therapies that either increase β-globin synthesis or reactivate γ-globin gene expression, the modulation of α-globin chains as a disease modifier for β-hemoglobinopathies still remains largely uncharted in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Vadolas
- Centre for Cancer ResearchHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Molecular and Translational SciencesMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Tiwaporn Nualkaew
- Centre for Cancer ResearchHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Present address:
Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health SciencesWalailak UniversityNakhon Si ThammaratThailand
| | - Hsiao P. J. Voon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cancer Program, Biomedicine Discovery InstituteMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Shahla Vilcassim
- Centre for Cancer ResearchHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash HealthMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - George Grigoriadis
- Centre for Cancer ResearchHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash HealthMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
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7
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Xu F, Zheng C, Xu W, Zhang S, Liu S, Chen X, Yao K. Breaking genetic shackles: The advance of base editing in genetic disorder treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1364135. [PMID: 38510648 PMCID: PMC10953296 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1364135] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid evolution of gene editing technology has markedly improved the outlook for treating genetic diseases. Base editing, recognized as an exceptionally precise genetic modification tool, is emerging as a focus in the realm of genetic disease therapy. We provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and delivery methods of cytosine base editors (CBE), adenine base editors (ABE), and RNA base editors, with a particular focus on their applications and recent research advances in the treatment of genetic diseases. We have also explored the potential challenges faced by base editing technology in treatment, including aspects such as targeting specificity, safety, and efficacy, and have enumerated a series of possible solutions to propel the clinical translation of base editing technology. In conclusion, this article not only underscores the present state of base editing technology but also envisions its tremendous potential in the future, providing a novel perspective on the treatment of genetic diseases. It underscores the vast potential of base editing technology in the realm of genetic medicine, providing support for the progression of gene medicine and the development of innovative approaches to genetic disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiyan Zheng
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weihui Xu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiyao Zhang
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaopeng Chen
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Yao
- Institute of Visual Neuroscience and Stem Cell Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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8
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Corbacioglu S, Frangoul H, Locatelli F, Hobbs W, Walters M. Defining curative endpoints for transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia in the era of gene therapy and gene editing. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:422-429. [PMID: 38100154 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a monogenic disease that results in varying degrees of anemia. In the most severe form, known as transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT), the clinical hallmarks are ineffective erythropoiesis and a requirement of regular, life-long red blood cell transfusions, with the development of secondary clinical complications such as iron overload, end-organ damage, and a risk of early mortality. With the exception of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, current treatments for TDT address disease symptoms and not the underlying cause of disease. Recently, a growing number of gene addition and gene editing-based treatments for patients with TDT with the potential to provide a one-time functional cure have entered clinical trials. A key challenge in the design and evaluation of these trials is selecting endpoints to evaluate if these novel genetic therapies have a curative versus an ameliorative effect. Here, we present an overview of the pathophysiology of TDT, review emerging gene addition or gene editing therapeutic approaches for TDT currently in clinical trials, and identify a series of endpoints that can quantify therapeutic effects, including a curative outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haydar Frangoul
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute and the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Franco Locatelli
- IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino, Gesù Rome, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - William Hobbs
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark Walters
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, California, USA
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Angastiniotis M. Beta thalassemia: Looking to the future, addressing unmet needs and challenges. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2024; 1532:63-72. [PMID: 38217509 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Thalassemia management has reached new milestones, with new therapies promising the dawning of a new era. However, conventional and new approaches require accessibility, affordability, acceptability/adherence by patients, and medical expertise from healthcare providers. Current treatments still do not offer the expected duration and quality of life, and inequalities in patient care are almost a universal phenomenon. To understand the requirements to achieve improved care, including the adoption of new therapies, for the maximum number of the global patient population, it is necessary to recognize the weaknesses that are experienced in the present so that future corrective action can be taken. Deficits in service provision are due to poor political and financial support, lack of prioritization during resource rationing, and absence of epidemiological information for policy making. These system weaknesses require improved resource management and would benefit from patient support organizations, improved psychosocial support and patient welfare, and an increase in professional expertise through educational programs. Medical products and technology must also be made affordable and widely available, and the curative treatments and cheaper approaches to technology must be recognized as resource saving. Improvements in the access to innovative and quality care, and even a cure, require concerted actions by all stakeholders, including physicians and the patient community.
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Hodroj MH, Akiki N, Bou-Fakhredin R, Taher AT. Beta-thalassemia: is cure still a dream? Minerva Med 2023; 114:850-860. [PMID: 37534831 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.23.08501-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a monogenic disorder characterized by decreased hemoglobin production, resulting in chronic anemia. There are several factors affecting the clinical presentation of patients with β-thalassemia, and several complications such as iron overload or ineffective erythropoiesis have been linked to this disease. Until nowadays, several conservative therapies namely blood transfusions, iron chelation, and the FDA-approved drug Luspatercept have been adopted alongside other debatable permanent cures. Other clinical trials are being conducted to develop better and safer management techniques for these patients. This review will discuss the different treatment strategies of β-thalassemia including novel therapies, besides all possible curative therapies that are being developed for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Hodroj
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Akiki
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ali T Taher
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon -
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11
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Xu F, Li D, Tang C, Liang B, Guan K, Liu R, Peng P. Magnetic resonance imaging assessment of the changes of cardiac and hepatic iron load in thalassemia patients before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19652. [PMID: 37950037 PMCID: PMC10638442 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46524-y] [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: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the value of T2* technique on 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating the changes of cardiac and hepatic iron load before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with thalassemia (TM), the 141 TM patients were divided into 6 group for subgroup analysis: 6, 12, 18, 24 and > 24 months group, according to the postoperative interval. The T2* values of heart and liver (H-T2*, L-T2*) were quantified in TM patients before and after HSCT using 3.0 T MRI T2* technology, and the corresponding serum ferritin (SF) was collected at the same time, and the changes of the three before and after HSCT were compared. The overall H-T2* (P = 0.001) and L-T2* (P = 0.041) of patients after HSCT were higher than those before HSCT (mean relative changes = 19.63%, 7.19%). The H-T2* (P < 0.001) and L-T2* (P < 0.001) > 24 months after HSCT were significantly higher than those before HSCT (mean relative changes = 69.19%, 93.73%). The SF of 6 months (P < 0.001), 12 months (P = 0.008), 18 months (P = 0.002) and > 24 months (P = 0.001) were significantly higher than those before HSCT (mean relative changes = 57.93%, 73.84%, 128.51%, 85.47%). There was no significant improvement in cardiac and liver iron content in TM patients within 24 months after HSCT, while the reduction of cardiac and liver iron content in patients is obvious when > 24 months after HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengming Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Da Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Tang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Bumin Liang
- School of International Education, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiming Guan
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Liu
- Department of Haematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Kattamis A, Voskaridou E, Delicou S, Klironomos E, Lafiatis I, Petropoulou F, Diamantidis MD, Lafioniatis S, Evliati L, Kapsali E, Karvounis‐Marolachakis K, Timotheatou D, Deligianni C, Viktoratos P, Kourakli A. Real-world complication burden and disease management paradigms in transfusion-related β-thalassaemia in Greece: Results from ULYSSES, an epidemiological, multicentre, retrospective cross-sectional study. EJHAEM 2023; 4:569-581. [PMID: 37601860 PMCID: PMC10435690 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Patients with transfusion-dependent beta (β)-thalassaemia experience a broad range of complications. ULYSSES, an epidemiological, multicentre, retrospective cross-sectional study, aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of treatment and disease complications, capture disease management and identify predictors of complications in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia, treated in routine settings in Greece. Eligible patients were adults diagnosed with β-thalassaemia ≥12 months before enrolment and having received ≥6 red blood cell (RBC) units (excluding elective surgery) with no transfusion-free period ≥35 days in the 24 weeks before enrolment. Primary data were collected at a single visit and through chart review. Between Oct 21, 2019, and Jun 15, 2020, 201 eligible patients [median (interquartile range, IQR) age 45.7 (40.2-50.5) years; 75.6% > 40 years old; 64.2% female] were enrolled, a mean (standard deviation) of 42.9 (7.8) years after diagnosis. Median (IQR) age at diagnosis and RBC transfusion initiation were 0.8 (0.4-2.8) and 1.3 (1.0-5.0) years, respectively. From diagnosis to enrolment, patients had developed a median of six (range: 1-55) complications; 19.6% were grade ≥3. The most represented complications were endocrine/metabolic/nutrition disorders (91.5%), surgical/medical procedures (67.7%) and blood/lymphatic system disorders (64.7%). Real-world data generated by ULYSSES underscore the substantial complication burden of transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia patients, routinely managed in Greece.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonis Kattamis
- First Department of PediatricsThalassemia UnitNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Ersi Voskaridou
- Expertise Center in Rare Haematological Diseases‐HaemoglobinopathiesGeneral Hospital of Athens “Laikon”AthensGreece
| | - Sophia Delicou
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell UnitGeneral Hospital of Athens “Hippocrateion”AthensGreece
| | - Evangelos Klironomos
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell UnitGeneral Hospital of Heraklion “Venizelion”HeraklionGreece
| | - Ioannis Lafiatis
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell UnitGeneral Hospital of Mytilene “Vostanio”MytileneGreece
| | - Foteini Petropoulou
- Thalassemia UnitGeneral Hospital of Athens “Georgios Gennimatas”AthensGreece
| | - Michael D. Diamantidis
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease UnitGeneral Hospital of Larissa “Koutlimbaneio & Triantafylleio”LarissaGreece
| | - Stylianos Lafioniatis
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell UnitGeneral Hospital of Volos “Achilopouleio,”VolosGreece
| | - Loukia Evliati
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell UnitGeneral Hospital of Athens “Evaggelismos”AthensGreece
| | - Eleni Kapsali
- Department of HematologyUniversity Hospital of IoanninaIoanninaGreece
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexandra Kourakli
- Department of Internal MedicineHematology DivisionUniversity General Hospital of PatrasPatrasGreece
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13
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Saeidnia M, Fazeli P, Farzi A, Atefy Nezhad M, Shabani-Borujeni M, Erfani M, Tamaddon G, Karimi M. An Expert Overview on Therapies in Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia: Classical to Cutting Edge in Treatment. Hemoglobin 2023:1-15. [PMID: 37325871 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2022.2158099] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The thalassemia issue is a growing worldwide health concern that anticipates the number of patients suffering from the disease will soon increase significantly. Patients with β-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI) manifest mild to intermediate levels of anemia, which is a reason for it to be clinically located between thalassemia minor and β-thalassemia major (β-TM). Notably, the determination of the actual rate of β-TI is more complicated than β-TM. The leading cause of this illness could be partial repression of β-globin protein production; accordingly, the rate of β-globin gene repression is different in patients, and the gene repression intensity creates a different clinical status. This review article provides an overview of functional mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of the classic to latest new treatments for this group of patients, depending on the disease severity divided into the typical management strategies for patients with β-TI such as fetal hemoglobin (Hb) induction, splenectomy, bone marrow transplantation (BMT), transfusion therapy, and herbal and chemical iron chelators. Recently, novel erythropoiesis-stimulating agents have been added. Novel strategies are subclassified into molecular and cellular interventions. Genome editing is one of the efficient molecular therapies for improving hemoglobinopathies, especially β-TI. It encompasses high-fidelity DNA repair (HDR), base and prime editing, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 procedure, nuclease-free strategies, and epigenetic modulation. In cellular interventions, we mentioned the approach pattern to improve erythropoiesis impairments in translational models and patients with β-TI that involve activin II receptor traps, Janus-associated kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitors, and iron metabolism regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Saeidnia
- Department of Hematology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Emam Khomeini Hospital, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Pooria Fazeli
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Trauma Research Center, Rajaee (Emtiaz) Trauma Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Arghavan Farzi
- School of Medicine, International Department Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Maryam Atefy Nezhad
- Department of Biology, Sciences Faculty, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, of Zarqān, Zarqān, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shabani-Borujeni
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehran Erfani
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Para-Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Tamaddon
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehran Karimi
- Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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14
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Sheth S, Taher AT, Coates TD, Kattamis A, Cappellini MD. Management of luspatercept therapy in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Br J Haematol 2023; 201:824-831. [PMID: 37037668 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18801] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia require lifelong, regular red blood cell transfusions for survival; however, frequent blood transfusions are associated with an increased risk of iron overload, transfusion-transmitted disease and alloimmunization, as well as reduced quality of life. Luspatercept, an erythroid maturation agent that promotes late-stage erythroid maturation independently of erythropoietin, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing transfusion burden in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. In this review, we discuss treatment initiation, ongoing evaluation, dose adjustment and management of adverse events in transfusion-dependent patients with β-thalassaemia receiving luspatercept, and we provide guidance on how to determine whether patients are deriving clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujit Sheth
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Thomas D Coates
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and USC Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Antonis Kattamis
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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15
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Hossain MJ, Islam MW, Munni UR, Gulshan R, Mukta SA, Miah MS, Sultana S, Karmakar M, Ferdous J, Islam MA. Health-related quality of life among thalassemia patients in Bangladesh using the SF-36 questionnaire. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7734. [PMID: 37173392 PMCID: PMC10182078 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34205-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Thalassemia is one of the most common autosomal recessive hereditary blood disorders worldwide, especially in developing countries, including Bangladesh. Thus, this study aimed to determine HRQoL and its determinants of thalassemia patients (TP) in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional survey was performed on 356 randomly selected thalassemia patients. Participants were invited to face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages), independent t-test, ANOVA, and multivariate (linear and logistic regression) analysis was performed to analyze the data. Our demographic data showed that among 356 patients, 54% and 46% were male and female, respectively, with an average age of 19.75 (SD = 8.02) years. Most were transfusion-dependent (91%), 26% had comorbidities, and 52% were from low-income families. In the case of HRQoL, male patients showed significantly higher scores of bodily pains and physical health summaries than female patients. Lower income, high blood transfusion status, disease severity, comorbidities, and medical expenses (p < 0.05; CI 95%) are significantly associated with lower SF-36 scores. This study found an association between lower income, blood transfusion, disease severity, comorbidities, as well as medical expenses, and the deterioration of HRQoL among TP. Male patients experienced poorer HRQoL than females. National action plans are required to guarantee the holistic welfare of thalassemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jubayer Hossain
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Md Wahidul Islam
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Ummi Rukaiya Munni
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
- Health Systems and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, 68, Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
- BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, 66, Mohakhali, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Rubaiya Gulshan
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Sumaiya Akter Mukta
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sharif Miah
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Sabia Sultana
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health Innovation, Research, Action, and Learning-Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh), 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
- Department of Microbiology, Jagannath University, 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Mousumi Karmakar
- Department of Microbiology, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences, 125, Technical Mor, 1 Darus Salam Rd, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Jannatul Ferdous
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Mugda Medical College and Hospital, Hazi Kadam Ali Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation, Chamelibagh, Shantinagar, Dhaka, 1217, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Ariful Islam
- Department of Microbiology, Jagannath University, 9-10 Chittaranjan Avenue, Dhaka, 1100, Bangladesh.
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16
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Bu M, Deng X, Zhang Y, Chen SW, Jiang M, Chen BT. Brain iron content and cognitive function in patients with β-thalassemia. Ther Adv Hematol 2023; 14:20406207231167050. [PMID: 37151807 PMCID: PMC10155013 DOI: 10.1177/20406207231167050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with β-thalassemia (β-TM) may have brain iron overload from long-term blood transfusions, ineffective erythropoiesis, and increased intestinal iron absorption, leading to cognitive impairment. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods such as the transverse relaxation rate, susceptibility-weighted imaging, and quantitative susceptibility mapping can provide quantitative, in vivo measurements of brain iron. This review assessed these MRI methods for brain iron quantification and the measurements for cognitive function in patients with β-TM. We aimed to identify the neural correlates of cognitive impairment, which should help to evaluate therapies for improving cognition and quality of life in patients with β-TM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiru Bu
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated
Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Xi Deng
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated
Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated
Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Sean W. Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology &
Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte,
CA, USA
| | - Muliang Jiang
- Department of Radiology, First Affiliated
Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, P. R. China
| | - Bihong T. Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of
Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
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17
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Xu F, Luo C, Li M, Guan K, Peng F, Yang G, Peng P. Quantification of cardiac iron in patients with thalassemia with 3-T MRI calibrated by 1.5-T MRI. Acta Radiol 2023; 64:2096-2103. [PMID: 37032518 DOI: 10.1177/02841851231165283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the small sample size of many studies, it remained unclear what standardized reference range the T2* cutoff at 3 T would be used to assess the severity of cardiac iron load. In addition, the number of patients with moderate to severe cardiac iron load was small in some studies, especially the sample of patients with severe cardiac iron load. PURPOSE To explore the feasibility, reproducibility, and reliability of using T2* values in quantifying cardiac iron load in patients with thalassemia at 3 T. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 122 patients with thalassemia underwent cardiac T2* imaging at both 1.5 T and 3 T. Cardiac R2* (1000/T2*) values of the 100 patients at 3 T were fitted against the values at 1.5 T using linear regression and the prediction equation was derived. The remaining 22 cases were used to test the prediction accuracy of the equation. RESULTS The combined R2* values exhibited a strong linear relationship between 1.5 T and 3 T (r = 0.830,P<0.001). At the center, it had a slope of 1.348 and an intercept of 37.279. According to the equation, the truncated T2* values of cardiac iron overload and cardiac heavy iron overload at 3 T were <10 ms and <6 ms, respectively. The two truncated T2* values were used to diagnose different levels of cardiac iron overloaded of 22 patients at 3 T; the accuracy rates were 95.5% and 100.0%, respectively. CONCLUSION T2* quantification of cardiac iron load at 3 T MRI resulted to be feasible, reproducible, and reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengming Xu
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Chaotian Luo
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Meicheng Li
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Kaiming Guan
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Fei Peng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Gaohui Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Thalassemia Medicine (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
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18
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Hatamleh MI, Chenna VSH, Contractor H, Krishna Mohan GV, Tirumandyam G, Dammas N, Khan MW, Hirani S. Efficacy of Hydroxyurea in Transfusion-Dependent Major β-Thalassemia Patients: A Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e38135. [PMID: 37252463 PMCID: PMC10213992 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38135] [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] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The present meta-analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy of hydroxyurea in patients with transfusion dependent major β-thalassemia. The present meta-analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Meta-analyses of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. A systematic search was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of hydroxyurea in patients with transfusion-dependent B-thalassaemia using electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and EMBASE. The keywords used to search for relevant studies included "hydroxyurea", "thalassemia", "transfusion-dependent", and "efficacy". Outcomes assessed in the present meta-analysis included transfusion in one year and intervals between transfusions (in days). Other outcomes assessed in the present meta-analysis were fetal hemoglobin (%), hemoglobin (%), and ferritin levels (ng/dl). Total of five studies were included in the analysis enrolling 294 patients with major B-thalassemia. The pooled analysis reported that the mean interval between transfusions was significantly higher in patients receiving hydroxyurea compared to those not receiving hydroxyurea (mean deviation {MD}: 10.07, 95% CI: 2.16, 17.99). Hemoglobin was significantly higher in patients receiving hydroxyurea compared to its counterparts (MD: 1.71, 95% CI: 0.84, 2.57). Patients receiving hydroxyurea had significantly lower ferritin levels compared to those not receiving hydroxyurea (MD: -299.65, 95% CI: -518.35, -80.96). These findings suggest that hydroxyurea may be a promising and cost-effective alternative to blood transfusions and iron chelation therapies for beta-thalassemia patients. However, the authors noted that further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings and to determine the optimal dosages and treatment regimens for hydroxyurea in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hazel Contractor
- Medical Education, Smt. Nathiba Hargovandas Lakhmichand (NHL) Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, IND
| | | | - Gayathri Tirumandyam
- Internal Medicine, Siddhartha Medical College, Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijaywada, IND
| | - Nada Dammas
- Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
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19
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Cappellini MD, Taher AT, Verma A, Shah F, Hermine O. Erythropoiesis in lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes and beta-thalassemia. Blood Rev 2022; 59:101039. [PMID: 36577601 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.101039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The hematologic disorders myelodysplastic syndromes and beta-thalassemia are characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis and anemia, often managed with regular blood transfusions. Erythropoiesis, the process by which sufficient numbers of functional erythrocytes are produced from hematopoietic stem cells, is highly regulated, and defects can negatively affect the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of erythroid precursors. Treatments that directly target the underlying mechanisms of ineffective erythropoiesis are limited, and management of anemia with regular blood transfusions imposes a significant burden on patients, caregivers, and health care systems. There is therefore a strong unmet need for treatments that can restore effective erythropoiesis. Novel therapies are beginning to address this need by targeting a variety of mechanisms underlying erythropoiesis. Herein, we provide an overview of the role of ineffective erythropoiesis in myelodysplastic syndromes and beta-thalassemia, discuss unmet needs in targeting ineffective erythropoiesis, and describe current management strategies and emerging treatments for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Halim and Aida Daniel Academic and Clinical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Amit Verma
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Farrukh Shah
- Department of Haematology, Whittington Health NHS Trust, London, UK.
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Department of Hematology, Hôpital Necker, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, University Paris Cité, Paris, France; INSERM U1163 and CNRS 8254, Imagine Institute, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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20
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Sliwa K, Viljoen CA, Hasan B, Ntusi NAB. Nutritional Heart Disease and Cardiomyopathies: JACC Focus Seminar 4/4. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022; 81:S0735-1097(22)07308-9. [PMID: 36599756 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.08.812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This JACC Focus Seminar provides an overview of and highlights recently published research on cardiomyopathies and nutritional heart disease that have a higher prevalence in tropical regions. The development of tropical cardiomyopathies and nutritional cardiovascular disease (CVD) is complicated by high rates of poverty, fragmented health care systems, and suboptimal access to health care because of socioeconomic inequalities, leading to the fact that children, adolescents, and young adults are disproportionally affected. Such tropical cardiomyopathies and nutritional CVD that have not been prevalent in high-income countries in the past decades are now reemerging. When treating migrants or refugees, it is important for attending physicians to consider the burden of endemic diseases in the countries of origin and the likelihood that such patients might be affected. In this review, the authors propose an approach for adequate diagnostic work-up leading to appropriate care for those with suspected or confirmed tropical cardiomyopathies and nutritional CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Sliwa
- Cape Heart Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Charle Andre Viljoen
- Cape Heart Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Babar Hasan
- Division of Cardio-Thoracic Sciences, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplant, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ntobeko A B Ntusi
- Cape Heart Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Groote Schuur Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Extramural Unit on Intersection of Noncommunicable Diseases and Infectious Diseases, Cape Town, South Africa
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21
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Qiu HY, Ji RJ, Zhang Y. Current advances of CRISPR-Cas technology in cell therapy. CELL INSIGHT 2022; 1:100067. [PMID: 37193354 PMCID: PMC10120314 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2022.100067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas is a versatile genome editing technology that has been broadly applied in both basic research and translation medicine. Ever since its discovery, the bacterial derived endonucleases have been engineered to a collection of robust genome-editing tools for introducing frameshift mutations or base conversions at site-specific loci. Since the initiation of first-in-human trial in 2016, CRISPR-Cas has been tested in 57 cell therapy trials, 38 of which focusing on engineered CAR-T cells and TCR-T cells for cancer malignancies, 15 trials of engineered hematopoietic stem cells treating hemoglobinopathies, leukemia and AIDS, and 4 trials of engineered iPSCs for diabetes and cancer. Here, we aim to review the recent breakthroughs of CRISPR technology and highlight their applications in cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hou-Yuan Qiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Rui-Jin Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical Research Institute, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
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22
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Antoniou P, Hardouin G, Martinucci P, Frati G, Felix T, Chalumeau A, Fontana L, Martin J, Masson C, Brusson M, Maule G, Rosello M, Giovannangeli C, Abramowski V, de Villartay JP, Concordet JP, Del Bene F, El Nemer W, Amendola M, Cavazzana M, Cereseto A, Romano O, Miccio A. Base-editing-mediated dissection of a γ-globin cis-regulatory element for the therapeutic reactivation of fetal hemoglobin expression. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6618. [PMID: 36333351 PMCID: PMC9636226 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia affect the production of the adult β-hemoglobin chain. The clinical severity is lessened by mutations that cause fetal γ-globin expression in adult life (i.e., the hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin). Mutations clustering ~200 nucleotides upstream of the HBG transcriptional start sites either reduce binding of the LRF repressor or recruit the KLF1 activator. Here, we use base editing to generate a variety of mutations in the -200 region of the HBG promoters, including potent combinations of four to eight γ-globin-inducing mutations. Editing of patient hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells is safe, leads to fetal hemoglobin reactivation and rescues the pathological phenotype. Creation of a KLF1 activator binding site is the most potent strategy - even in long-term repopulating hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Compared with a Cas9-nuclease approach, base editing avoids the generation of insertions, deletions and large genomic rearrangements and results in higher γ-globin levels. Our results demonstrate that base editing of HBG promoters is a safe, universal strategy for treating β-hemoglobinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Antoniou
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giulia Hardouin
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Human Lymphohematopoiesis, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
- Biotherapy Department and Clinical Investigation Center, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, INSERM, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Martinucci
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giacomo Frati
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Tristan Felix
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Anne Chalumeau
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Letizia Fontana
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jeanne Martin
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Cecile Masson
- Bioinformatics Platform, Imagine Institute, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Megane Brusson
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Giulia Maule
- CIBIO, University of Trento, 38100, Trento, Italy
| | - Marion Rosello
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75015, Paris, France
| | | | - Vincent Abramowski
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of genome dynamics in the immune system, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre de Villartay
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of genome dynamics in the immune system, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Paul Concordet
- INSERM U1154, CNRS UMR7196, Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Filippo Del Bene
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Wassim El Nemer
- Établissement Français du Sang, UMR 7268, 13005, Marseille, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Mario Amendola
- Genethon, 91000, Evry, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, Inserm, Genethon, Integrare research unit UMR_S951, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Marina Cavazzana
- Biotherapy Department and Clinical Investigation Center, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, INSERM, 75015, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, 75015, Paris, France
- Imagine Institute, 75015, Paris, France
| | | | - Oriana Romano
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Annarita Miccio
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of chromatin and gene regulation during development, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France.
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23
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Shash H. Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia: A Panoramic Review. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58101496. [PMID: 36295656 PMCID: PMC9608723 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT) has been considered less severe than its transfusion-dependent variants. The most common forms of NTDT include β-thalassemia intermedia, hemoglobin E/beta thalassemia, and hemoglobin H disease. Patients with NTDT develop several clinical complications, despite their regular transfusion independence. Ineffective erythropoiesis, iron overload, and hypercoagulability are pathophysiological factors that lead to morbidities in these patients. Therefore, an early and accurate diagnosis of NTDT is essential to ascertaining early interventions. Currently, several conventional management options are available, with guidelines suggested by the Thalassemia International Federation, and novel therapies are being developed in light of the advancement of the understanding of this disease. This review aimed to increase clinicians’ awareness of NTDT, from its basic medical definition and genetics to its pathophysiology. Specific complications to NTDT were reviewed, along with the risk factors for its development. The indications of different therapeutic options were outlined, and recent advancements were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwazen Shash
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar 31952, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Genetic correction of haemoglobin E in an immortalised haemoglobin E/beta-thalassaemia cell line using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15551. [PMID: 36114353 PMCID: PMC9481540 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19934-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
β-thalassaemia is one of the most common genetic blood diseases worldwide with over 300 mutations in the HBB gene affecting red blood cell functions. Recently, advances in genome editing technology have provided a powerful tool for precise genetic correction. Generation of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) followed by genetic correction of HBB mutations and differentiation into haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) offers a potential therapy to cure the disease. However, the biggest challenge is to generate functional HSPCs that are capable of self-renewal and transplantable. In addition, functional analyses of iPSC-derived erythroid cells are hampered by poor erythroid expansion and incomplete erythroid differentiation. Previously, we generated an immortalised erythroid cell line (SiBBE) with unique properties, including unlimited expansion and the ability to differentiate into mature erythrocytes. In this study, we report a highly efficient genetic correction of HbE mutation in the SiBBE cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The HbE-corrected clones restored β-globin production with reduced levels of HbE upon erythroid differentiation. Our approach provides a sustainable supply of corrected erythroid cells and represents a valuable model for validating the therapeutic efficacy of gene editing systems.
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25
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Aziz A, Baharin MF, Fauzi MY, Abdul Hamid FS, Nadarajaw T, Ahmad R, Hashim H. Rare cause of transfusion-dependent hemolytic anemia: A case report of HbE/Hb Nottingham and literature review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29629. [PMID: 35253358 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aisyah Aziz
- Hematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institute of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Farid Baharin
- Immunodeficiency & Immunogenetics Unit, Allergy & Immunology Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institute of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Yusri Fauzi
- Hematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institute of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Faidatul Syazlin Abdul Hamid
- Hematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institute of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Thiyagar Nadarajaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah (HSB), Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Rahimah Ahmad
- Hematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), National Institute of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hafizah Hashim
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah (HSB), Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
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26
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Prosdocimi M, Zuccato C, Cosenza LC, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Finotti A, Gambari R. A Rational Approach to Drug Repositioning in β-thalassemia: Induction of Fetal Hemoglobin by Established Drugs. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:150. [PMID: 36110836 PMCID: PMC9453112 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17845.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning and the relevance of orphan drug designation for β-thalassemia is reviewed. Drug repositioning and similar terms ('drug repurposing', 'drug reprofiling', 'drug redirecting', 'drug rescue', 'drug re-tasking' and/or 'drug rediscovery') have gained great attention, especially in the field or rare diseases (RDs), and represent relevant novel drug development strategies to be considered together with the "off-label" use of pharmaceutical products under clinical trial regimen. The most significant advantage of drug repositioning over traditional drug development is that the repositioned drug has already passed a significant number of short- and long-term toxicity tests, as well as it has already undergone pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies. The established safety of repositioned drugs is known to significantly reduce the probability of project failure. Furthermore, development of repurposed drugs can shorten much of the time needed to bring a drug to market. Finally, patent filing of repurposed drugs is expected to catch the attention of pharmaceutical industries interested in the development of therapeutic protocols for RDs. Repurposed molecules that could be proposed as potential drugs for β-thalassemia, will be reported, with some of the most solid examples, including sirolimus (rapamycin) that recently has been tested in a pilot clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Prosdocimi
- Rare Partners srl Impresa Sociale, Via G.Boccaccio 20, 20123 Milano, Italy,
| | - Cristina Zuccato
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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27
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Prosdocimi M, Zuccato C, Cosenza LC, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Finotti A, Gambari R. A Rational Approach to Drug Repositioning in β-thalassemia: Induction of Fetal Hemoglobin by Established Drugs. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:150. [PMID: 36110836 PMCID: PMC9453112 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17845.1] [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] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning and the relevance of orphan drug designation for β-thalassemia is reviewed. Drug repositioning and similar terms ('drug repurposing', 'drug reprofiling', 'drug redirecting', 'drug rescue', 'drug re-tasking' and/or 'drug rediscovery') have gained great attention, especially in the field or rare diseases (RDs), and represent relevant novel drug development strategies to be considered together with the "off-label" use of pharmaceutical products under clinical trial regimen. The most significant advantage of drug repositioning over traditional drug development is that the repositioned drug has already passed a significant number of short- and long-term toxicity tests, as well as it has already undergone pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies. The established safety of repositioned drugs is known to significantly reduce the probability of project failure. Furthermore, development of repurposed drugs can shorten much of the time needed to bring a drug to market. Finally, patent filing of repurposed drugs is expected to catch the attention of pharmaceutical industries interested in the development of therapeutic protocols for RDs. Repurposed molecules that could be proposed as potential drugs for β-thalassemia, will be reported, with some of the most solid examples, including sirolimus (rapamycin) that recently has been tested in a pilot clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Prosdocimi
- Rare Partners srl Impresa Sociale, Via G.Boccaccio 20, 20123 Milano, Italy,
| | - Cristina Zuccato
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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28
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Prosdocimi M, Zuccato C, Cosenza LC, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Finotti A, Gambari R. A Rational Approach to Drug Repositioning in β-thalassemia: Induction of Fetal Hemoglobin by Established Drugs. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:150. [PMID: 36110836 PMCID: PMC9453112 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17845.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning and the relevance of orphan drug designation for β-thalassemia is reviewed. Drug repositioning and similar terms ('drug repurposing', 'drug reprofiling', 'drug redirecting', 'drug rescue', 'drug re-tasking' and/or 'drug rediscovery') have gained great attention, especially in the field or rare diseases (RDs), and represent relevant novel drug development strategies to be considered together with the "off-label" use of pharmaceutical products under clinical trial regimen. The most significant advantage of drug repositioning over traditional drug development is that the repositioned drug has already passed a significant number of short- and long-term toxicity tests, as well as it has already undergone pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies. The established safety of repositioned drugs is known to significantly reduce the probability of project failure. Furthermore, development of repurposed drugs can shorten much of the time needed to bring a drug to market. Finally, patent filing of repurposed drugs is expected to catch the attention of pharmaceutical industries interested in the development of therapeutic protocols for RDs. Repurposed molecules that could be proposed as potential drugs for β-thalassemia, will be reported, with some of the most solid examples, including sirolimus (rapamycin) that recently has been tested in a pilot clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Prosdocimi
- Rare Partners srl Impresa Sociale, Via G.Boccaccio 20, 20123 Milano, Italy,
| | - Cristina Zuccato
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Center ‘Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago’ for the Research on Thalassemia, Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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29
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Kuo KHM, Layton DM, Lal A, Al-Samkari H, Bhatia J, Kosinski PA, Tong B, Lynch M, Uhlig K, Vichinsky EP. Safety and efficacy of mitapivat, an oral pyruvate kinase activator, in adults with non-transfusion dependent α-thalassaemia or β-thalassaemia: an open-label, multicentre, phase 2 study. Lancet 2022; 400:493-501. [PMID: 35964609 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01337-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassaemia (NTDT), although they do not require regular blood transfusions for survival, can still accrue a heavy burden of comorbidities. No approved disease-modifying therapies exist for these patients. We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of mitapivat (Agios Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA), a pyruvate kinase activator, in adults with non-transfusion-dependent (NTD) α-thalassaemia or NTD β-thalassaemia. METHODS In this open-label, multicentre, phase 2 study, patients were recruited from four academic clinical study sites in Oakland, CA, and Boston, MA, USA; Toronto, ON, Canada; and London, UK. Patients were eligible if they were aged 18 years or older, with NTDT (including β-thalassaemia with or without α-globin gene mutations, haemoglobin E β-thalassaemia, or α-thalassaemia), and a baseline haemoglobin concentration of 10·0 g/dL or lower. During a 24-week core period, mitapivat was administered orally at 50 mg twice daily for the first 6 weeks followed by an escalation to 100 mg twice daily for 18 weeks thereafter. The primary endpoint was haemoglobin response (a ≥1·0 g/dL increase in haemoglobin concentration from baseline at one or more assessments between weeks 4 and 12). Efficacy and safety were assessed in the full analysis set (ie, all patients who received at least one dose of study drug). This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03692052, and is closed to accrual. FINDINGS Between Dec 28, 2018, and Feb 6, 2020, 27 patients were screened, of whom 20 were enrolled (15 [75%] with β-thalassaemia and five [25%] with α-thalassaemia) and received mitapivat. The median age of patients was 44 years (IQR 35-56), 15 (75%) of 20 patients were female, five (25%) were male, and ten (50%) identified as Asian. 16 (80% [90% CI 60-93]) of 20 patients had a haemoglobin response (p<0·0001), five (100%) of five with α-thalassaemia and 11 (73%) of 15 with β-thalassaemia. 17 (85%) patients had a treatment-emergent adverse event, and 13 had a treatment-emergent event that was considered to be treatment related. One serious treatment-emergent adverse event occurred (grade 3 renal impairment), which was considered unrelated to study drug, resulting in discontinuation of treatment. The most commonly reported treatment-emergent adverse events were initial insomnia (ten [50%] patients), dizziness (six [30%]), and headache (five [25%]). No patients died during the 24-week core period. INTERPRETATION These efficacy and safety results support the continued investigation of mitapivat for the treatment of both α-thalassaemia and β-thalassaemia. FUNDING Agios Pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin H M Kuo
- Division of Haematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - D Mark Layton
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ashutosh Lal
- Division of Hematology, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Hanny Al-Samkari
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joy Bhatia
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Bo Tong
- Agios Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Elliott P Vichinsky
- Division of Hematology, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA, USA
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30
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2021 Thalassaemia International Federation Guidelines for the Management of Transfusion-dependent Thalassemia. Hemasphere 2022; 6:e732. [PMID: 35928543 PMCID: PMC9345633 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassemia and particularly its transfusion-dependent form (TDT) is a demanding clinical condition, requiring life-long care and follow-up, ideally in specialized centers and by multidisciplinary teams of experts. Despite the significant progress in TDT diagnosis and treatment over the past decades that has dramatically improved patients’ prognosis, its management remains challenging. On one hand, diagnostic and therapeutic advances are not equally applied to all patients across the world, particularly in several high-prevalence eastern regions. On the other, healthcare systems in low-prevalence western countries that have recently received large numbers of migrant thalassemia patients, were not ready to address patients’ special needs. Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF), a global patient-driven umbrella federation with 232 member-associations in 62 countries, strives for equal access to quality care for all patients suffering from thalassemia or other hemoglobinopathies in every part of the world by promoting education, research, awareness, and advocacy. One of TIF’s main actions is the development and dissemination of clinical practice guidelines for the management of these patients. In 2021, the fourth edition of TIF’s guidelines for the management of TDT was published. The full text provides detailed information on the management of TDT patients and the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostic approach, and treatment of disease complications or other clinical entities that may occur in these patients, while also covering relevant psychosocial and organizational issues. The present document is a summary of the 2021 TIF guidelines for TDT that focuses mainly on clinical practice issues and recommendations.
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31
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Abbasalipour M, Khosravi MA, Zeinali S, Khanahmad H, Azadmanesh K, Karimipoor M. Lentiviral vector containing beta-globin gene for beta thalassemia gene therapy. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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32
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Matsagos S, Verigou E, Kourakli A, Alexis S, Vrakas S, Argyropoulou C, Lazaris V, Spyropoulou P, Labropoulou V, Georgara N, Lykouresi M, Karakantza M, Alepi C, Symeonidis A. High Frequency of Post-Transfusion Microchimerism Among Multi-Transfused Beta-Thalassemic Patients. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:845490. [PMID: 35252277 PMCID: PMC8888870 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.845490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transfusion-associated microchimerism implies the presence of allogeneic hematopoietic cells in an individual, following the transfusion of a blood product. It is a transfusion-related adverse effect/long-term consequence, which has not been well-investigated among regularly transfused patients with thalassemia. Patients and Methods We investigated 64 regularly transfused, homozygous β-thalassemic patients and 21 never-transfused healthy volunteer blood donors (controls) for the presence of microchimerism in their sera, using real-time PCR targeting circulating allogeneic, both, Human Leukocyte Antigen-DR isotype (HLA-DR) and non-HLA alleles. The investigation was longitudinally repeated in patient subsets for more than 2 years. Results were correlated with clinical and laboratory parameters, peripheral blood lymphocyte immunophenotype, blood storage time, and donor's gender to identify potential contributing factors for microchimerism generation. Results Overall, microchimerism was detected in 52 of the 64 patients (81.2%) and in 6 of the 21 controls (28.5%, p = 0.0001). Forty-four patients (68.7%) exhibited long-term microchimerism (persisted for more than 6 months), confirmed at all time-points investigated. Microchimerism was more frequent among elderly, women, splenectomized and more heavily transfused patients, and among those who exhibit higher serum ferritin levels. In these patients, a distinct descending pattern of CD16dim+CD56dim+ natural killer (NK)-cells (p < 0.001) and an ascending pattern of CD4+CD25brightCD127– regulatory T-cells (p = 0.022) for increasing allelic burden were noticed, suggesting the establishment of recipient immune tolerance against the donor-derived chimeric alleles. Both splenectomized and non-splenectomized thalassemic patients exhibited the same trend. The storage time of transfused blood products and donor/gender mismatch had no impact on the development of microchimerism. Discussion-Conclusive Remarks Transfusion-associated microchimerism appears to be a very common complication among multi-transfused thalassemic patients. The potential clinical consequences of this phenomenon remain as yet unclear. Immune tolerance attributed to disease itself and to repeated transfusions might at least in part explain its appearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridon Matsagos
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank, "Tzaneion" General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece.,Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Evgenia Verigou
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Alexandra Kourakli
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Spyridon Alexis
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Spyridon Vrakas
- Gastroenterology Department, "Tzaneion" General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece
| | - Constantina Argyropoulou
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasileios Lazaris
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiota Spyropoulou
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank, "Tzaneion" General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Labropoulou
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Nicoletta Georgara
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank, University Regional General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Lykouresi
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank, "Tzaneion" General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece
| | - Marina Karakantza
- Haematology and Transfusion Department, National Health Service Blood and Transplant, Leeds Teaching, Hospital Trust, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Chrysoula Alepi
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank, "Tzaneion" General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece
| | - Argiris Symeonidis
- Hematology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
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A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial of oral hydroxyurea for transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2752. [PMID: 35177777 PMCID: PMC8854735 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06774-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydroxyurea is an antimetabolite drug that induces fetal haemoglobin in sickle cell disease. However, its clinical usefulness in β-thalassaemia is unproven. We conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of hydroxyurea in transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Sixty patients were assigned 1:1 to oral hydroxyurea 10–20 mg/kg/day or placebo for 6 months by stratified block randomisation. Hydroxyurea treatment did not alter the blood transfusion volume overall. However, a significantly higher proportion of patients on hydroxyurea showed increases in fetal haemoglobin percentage (89% vs. 59%; p < 0.05) and reductions in erythropoietic stress as measured by soluble transferrin receptor concentration (79% vs. 40%; p < 0.05). Based on fetal haemoglobin induction (> 1.5%), 44% of patients were identified as hydroxyurea-responders. Hydroxyurea-responders, required significantly lower blood volume (77 ± SD27ml/kg) compared to hydroxyurea-non-responders (108 ± SD24ml/kg; p < 0.01) and placebo-receivers (102 ± 28ml/kg; p < 0.05). Response to hydroxyurea was significantly higher in patients with HbE β-thalassaemia genotype (50% vs. 0%; p < 0.01) and Xmn1 polymorphism of the γ-globin gene (67% vs. 27%; p < 0.05). We conclude that oral hydroxyurea increased fetal haemoglobin percentage and reduced erythropoietic stress of ineffective erythropoiesis in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Hydroxyurea reduced the transfusion burden in approximately 40% of patients. Response to hydroxyurea was higher in patients with HbE β-thalassaemia genotype and Xmn1 polymorphism of the γ-globin gene.
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Bulgurcu SC, Canbolat Ayhan A, Emeksiz HC, Ovali F. Assessment of the Nutritional Status, Bone Mineralization, and Anthropometrics of Children with Thalassemia Major. Medeni Med J 2021; 36:325-332. [PMID: 34939399 PMCID: PMC8694160 DOI: 10.4274/mmj.galenos.2021.66915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Children with thalassemia major (TM) are prone to growth failure and micronutrient deficiency. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate nutritional status, anthropometrics, and bone mineralization defects in patients with regular blood transfusion. Methods: Data obtained were analyzed by evaluating laboratory tests, anthropometric measures, and bone mineral density. Results: This study included 29 patients (62% male and 38% female) with a mean age of 12.26±4.74 years, mean pre-transfusion hemoglobin of 8.64±1.01 g/dL, and mean serum ferritin of 1158.6±556.8 ng/mL. Vitamin D (72.4%), selenium (72.4%), and folate (37.9%) deficiencies were most frequent. Hypocalcemia was observed in 17.2%, hypomagnesemia in 3.5%, and decreased ceruloplasmin in 10.3% of patients. Folate was higher between 2 and 6 years old (p=0.028). Ceruloplasmin was higher between 6 and 10 years old (p=0.018). Selenium was significantly higher in patients with a ferritin of ≥1,500 (p=0.008). No significant ferritin-related differences were found in other micronutrients (p>0.05). Body mass index (BMI) were <5 percentile (p) in 31% of patient, whereas none was >95 p. Height in 24.5% and weight in 20.7% of patients were <3 p, whereas none with >97 p. BMI of patients aged 10-18 years was significantly higher (p=0.001). Anthropometric percentiles did not significantly differ in the mean serum ferritin and micronutrient levels. Hypoparathyroidism was observed in 13.8% and hypothyroidism in 3.5% of patients. Low bone density was detected in 14.8% (2 osteopenic and 2 osteoporotic) of patients. Bone mineral density did not significantly differ in the ferritin and micronutrient levels. Conclusions: Nutritional support and deficiency prevention are important to minimize the burden of complications and increase the life expectancy and quality in patients with TM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serap Cevher Bulgurcu
- Istanbul Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Canbolat Ayhan
- Istanbul Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hamdi Cihan Emeksiz
- Istanbul Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fahri Ovali
- Istanbul Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul, Turkey
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Aoki Y. Noteworthy Points in the Management of Patients With β-Thalassemia Major. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1764. [PMID: 31688703 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Aoki
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Aizawa Hospital Nagano, Japan
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36
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Chen JM, Zhu WJ, Liu J, Wang GZ, Chen XQ, Tan Y, Xu WW, Qu LW, Li JY, Yang HJ, Huang L, Cai N, Wang WD, Huang K, Xu JQ, Li GH, He S, Luo TY, Huang Y, Liu SH, Wu WQ, Lu QY, Zhou MG, Chen SY, Li RL, Hu ML, Huang Y, Wei JH, Li JM, Chen SJ, Zhou GB. Safety and efficacy of thalidomide in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: a randomized clinical trial. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:405. [PMID: 34795208 PMCID: PMC8602273 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00811-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Thalidomide induces γ-globin expression in erythroid progenitor cells, but its efficacy on patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) remains unclear. In this phase 2, multi-center, randomized, double-blind clinical trial, we aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of thalidomide in TDT patients. A hundred patients of 14 years or older were randomly assigned to receive placebo or thalidomide for 12 weeks, followed by an extension phase of at least 36 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change of hemoglobin (Hb) level in the patients. The secondary endpoints included the red blood cell (RBC) units transfused and adverse effects. In the placebo-controlled period, Hb concentrations in patients treated with thalidomide achieved a median elevation of 14.0 (range, 2.5 to 37.5) g/L, whereas Hb in patients treated with placebo did not significantly change. Within the 12 weeks, the mean RBC transfusion volume for patients treated with thalidomide and placebo was 5.4 ± 5.0 U and 10.3 ± 6.4 U, respectively (P < 0.001). Adverse events of drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, pyrexia, sore throat, and rash were more common with thalidomide than placebo. In the extension phase, treatment with thalidomide for 24 weeks resulted in a sustainable increase in Hb concentrations which reached 104.9 ± 19.0 g/L, without blood transfusion. Significant increase in Hb concentration and reduction in RBC transfusions were associated with non β0/β0 and HBS1L-MYB (rs9399137 C/T, C/C; rs4895441 A/G, G/G) genotypes. These results demonstrated that thalidomide is effective in patients with TDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Ming Chen
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China.
| | - Wei-Jian Zhu
- Department of Hematology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, 541000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Gui-Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Medical Oncology Department, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, National Research Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wei-Wei Xu
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Li-Wei Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences & University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jin-Yan Li
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Huan-Ju Yang
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Ning Cai
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Wei-Da Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine; Medical Oncology Department, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Ken Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise City, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Jian-Quan Xu
- Department of Hematology, Yulin Guinan Hospital, Yulin, 537005, Guangxi, China
| | - Guo-Hui Li
- Department of neurology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Sheng He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Birth Defects Prevention and Treatment, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Nanning, 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Tian-Ying Luo
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Department of Hematology, Guigang People's Hospital, Guigang, 537100, Guangxi, China
| | - Song-Hua Liu
- Department of Hematology, Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Wuzhou City, Wuzhou, 543002, Guangxi, China
| | - Wen-Qiang Wu
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Red Cross Hospital, Wuzhou, 543002, Guangxi, China
| | - Qi-Yang Lu
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Mei-Guang Zhou
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Shu-Ying Chen
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Rong-Lan Li
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Mei-Ling Hu
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Hematology, Wuzhou Gongren Hospital, Wuzhou, 543001, Guangxi, China
| | - Jin-Hua Wei
- Department of Hematology, Hechi People's Hospital, Hechi City, 547000, Guangxi, China
| | - Jun-Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, National Research Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Sai-Juan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, National Research Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Guang-Biao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
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Madan U, Bhasin H, Dewan P, Madan J. Improving Ineffective Erythropoiesis in Thalassemia: A Hope on the Horizon. Cureus 2021; 13:e18502. [PMID: 34754662 PMCID: PMC8567967 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassemia is an inherited hemoglobinopathy characterized by the impaired synthesis of beta-globin chains of hemoglobin leading to chronic hemolytic anemia. The mainstay of treatment for most patients remains regular blood transfusions and iron chelation. This conventional therapy has many limitations and challenges. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is the only available curative treatment but the availability of a suitable donor, financial constraints, and a need for specialist physicians can be limiting factors. Gene therapy is an upcoming curative therapeutic modality. An increased understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of thalassemia has paved the way for novel pharmacological agents targeting ineffective erythropoiesis. These drugs act by decreasing transfusion requirements and hence decrease transfusion-related complications. The present review intends to provide an insight into the recent advances in pharmacological agents targeting ineffective erythropoiesis. Literature was searched and relevant articles evaluating newer drugs in thalassemia were collected from databases, including Pubmed, Scopus, Prospero, Clinicaltrials.gov, Google Scholar, and the Google search engine. We used the following keywords: thalassemia, novel, treatment, drugs, and ineffective erythropoiesis during the initial search. Relevant titles and abstracts were screened to choose relevant articles. Further, the full-text articles were retrieved and relevant cross-references were scanned to collect information for the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujjwal Madan
- Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, IND
| | - Himani Bhasin
- Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, IND
| | - Pooja Dewan
- Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, IND
| | - Jyotsna Madan
- Pathology, Super Speciality Pediatric Hospital and Post Graduate Teaching Institute, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, IND
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Shah F, Telfer P, Velangi M, Pancham S, Wynn R, Pollard S, Chalmers E, Kell J, Carter AM, Hickey J, Paramore C, Jobanputra M, Ryan K. Routine management, healthcare resource use and patient and carer-reported outcomes of patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia in the United Kingdom: A mixed methods observational study. EJHAEM 2021; 2:738-749. [PMID: 35845207 PMCID: PMC9175788 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Objectives We evaluated routine healthcare management, clinical status and patient- and carer-reported outcomes in UK paediatric and adult patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia (TDT). Methods A multi-centre, observational mixed-methodology study evaluated 165 patients (50% male; median age 24.1 [interquartile range (IQR)] 11.8-37.2] years) from nine UK centres. Results Patients had a mean of 13.7 (standard deviation [SD] ±3.2) transfusion episodes/year (mean retrospective observation period 4.7 [±0.7] years). The median (IQR) for iron overload parameters at the last assessment during the observation period were: serum ferritin (n = 165) 1961.0 (1090.0-3003.0) μg/L (38% > 2500 μg/L); R2 liver iron (n = 119) 5.4 (2.9-11.6) mg/g (16% ≥15 mg/g); T2* cardiac iron (n = 132) 30.3 (22.0-37.1) ms (10% < 10 ms). All patients received ≥1 iron chelator during the observation period; 21% received combination therapy. Patients had a mean of 7.8 (±8.1) non-transfusion-related hospital attendances or admissions/year. Adult patients' mean EQ-5D utility score was 0.69 (±0.33; n = 94 [≥16 years]) and mean Transfusion-dependent quality of life score was 58.6 (±18.4; n = 94 [≥18 years]). For Work Productivity and Activity impairment, mean activity impairment for patients ≥18 years (n = 88) was 48% (±32%) and for carers (n = 29) was 28% (±23%). Conclusions TDT presents significant burden on patients, carers and healthcare resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Telfer
- Centre for Genomics and Child HealthBlizard InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | | | | | - Robert Wynn
- Royal Manchester Children's HospitalManchesterUK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kate Ryan
- Manchester Royal InfirmaryManchesterUK
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Taher AT, Bou-Fakhredin R, Kattamis A, Viprakasit V, Cappellini MD. Improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: recommendations for best clinical practice and the use of novel treatment strategies. Expert Rev Hematol 2021; 14:897-909. [PMID: 34493145 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2021.1977116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION β-thalassemia is one of the most common inherited monogenic diseases. Many patients are dependent on a lifetime of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and iron chelation therapy. Although treatments have a significant impact on quality of life (QoL), life expectancy, and long-term health outcomes have improved in recent decades through safer RBC transfusion practices and better iron chelation strategies. Advances in the understanding of the pathology of β-thalassemia have led to the development of new treatment options that have the potential to reduce the RBC transfusion burden in patients with transfusion-dependent (TD) β-thalassemia and improve QoL. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of currently available treatments for patients with TD β-thalassemia, highlighting QoL issues, and providing an update on current clinical experience plus important practical points for two new treatments available for TD β-thalassemia: betibeglogene autotemcel (beti-cel) gene therapy and the erythroid maturation agent luspatercept, an activin ligand trap. EXPERT OPINION Approved therapies, including curative gene therapies and supportive treatments such as luspatercept, have the potential to reduce RBC transfusion burden, and improve clinical outcomes and QoL in patients with TD β-thalassemia. Cost of treatment is, however, likely to be a significant barrier for payors and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Antonis Kattamis
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Siriraj Center of Excellence on Advanced Gene and Cellular Therapy (Si-COE-AGCT) & Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Taher AT, Cappellini MD. Luspatercept for β-thalassemia: beyond red blood cell transfusions. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2021; 21:1363-1371. [PMID: 34404288 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1968825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Red blood cell transfusions and iron chelation therapy are the cornerstone of treatment for β-thalassemia, with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy offering further disease-management options for eligible patients. With up to 90% of severe cases of β-thalassemia occurring in resource-constrained countries, and estimates indicating that 22,500 deaths occur annually as a direct consequence of undertransfusion, provision of adequate treatment remains a major issue. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide an overview of luspatercept, a first-in-class erythroid maturation agent, and present the available clinical data related to the treatment of β-thalassemia. EXPERT OPINION The recent approval of luspatercept offers a new, long-term therapeutic option for adult patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia to reduce red blood cell transfusion burden, anemia, and iron overload.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Porter J, Taher A, Viprakasit V, Kattamis A, Coates TD, Garbowski M, Dürrenberger F, Manolova V, Richard F, Cappellini MD. Oral ferroportin inhibitor vamifeport for improving iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis in β-thalassemia: current evidence and future clinical development. Expert Rev Hematol 2021; 14:633-644. [PMID: 34324404 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2021.1935854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In β-thalassemia, imbalanced globin synthesis causes reduced red blood cell survival and ineffective erythropoiesis. Suppressed hepcidin levels increase ferroportin-mediated iron transport in enterocytes, causing increased iron absorption and potentially iron overload. Low hepcidin also stimulates ferroportin-mediated iron release from macrophages, increasing transferrin saturation (TSAT), potentially forming non-transferrin-bound iron, which can be toxic. Modulating the hepcidin-ferroportin axis is an attractive strategy to improve ineffective erythropoiesis and limit the potential tissue damage resulting from iron overload. There are no oral β-thalassemia treatments that consistently ameliorate anemia and prevent iron overload. AREAS COVERED The preclinical and clinical development of vamifeport (VIT-2763), a novel ferroportin inhibitor, was reviewed. PubMed, EMBASE and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using the search term 'VIT-2763'. EXPERT OPINION Vamifeport is the first oral ferroportin inhibitor in clinical development. In healthy volunteers, vamifeport had comparable safety to placebo, was well tolerated and rapidly decreased iron levels and reduced TSAT, consistent with observations in preclinical models. Data from ongoing/planned Phase II studies are critical to define its potential in β-thalassemia and other conditions associated with iron overabsorption and/or ineffective erythropoiesis. If vamifeport potentially increases hemoglobin and reduces iron-related parameters, it could be a suitable treatment for non-transfusion-dependent and transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Porter
- Professor of Haematology, Department of Haematology, University College London, Consultant in Haematology, University College London Hospitals and Head of Joint UCLH and Whittington Hospital Red Cell Unit, London, UK
| | - Ali Taher
- Professor of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Professor of Pediatrics, Director, Thalassemia Research Program, Director, SiCORE in Advanced Cell & Gene Therapy Center (SiCORE-ACGT), Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics & Siriraj Thalassemia Center, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Antonis Kattamis
- Professor of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Thomas D Coates
- Section Head, Hematology, Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Professor of Pediatrics and Pathology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maciej Garbowski
- Clinical Research Fellow, Department of Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK
| | - Franz Dürrenberger
- Head of Chemical and Preclinical R&D, Vifor (International) AG, Chemical and Preclinical Research and Development, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Vania Manolova
- Head of Biology R&D, Vifor (International) AG, Chemical and Preclinical Research and Development, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Frank Richard
- Clinical Research Director, Vifor Pharma AG, Glattbrugg, Switzerland
| | - M Domenica Cappellini
- Professor of Internal Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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42
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Zhou X, Chen T, Zhang Q, Qi M, Zhang L, Du J, Chi H, Shen B, Xu X, Lu Y. De novo HBB frameshift mutation in a patient with dominant β-thalassemia major. Int J Lab Hematol 2021; 44:e21-e25. [PMID: 34323379 DOI: 10.1111/ijlh.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoman Zhou
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tongtong Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Qi
- Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Juping Du
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Hongbo Chi
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Lu
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China.,Taizhou Enze Medical Center (Group), Enze Hospital, Taizhou, China
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43
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Hindawi S, Badawi M, Elfayoumi R, Elgemmezi T, Al Hassani A, Raml M, Alamoudi S, Gholam K. The value of transfusion of phenotyped blood units for thalassemia and sickle cell anemia patients at an academic center. Transfusion 2021; 60 Suppl 1:S15-S21. [PMID: 32134130 DOI: 10.1111/trf.15682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood transfusion is the first-line treatment for patients with thalassemia and many sickle cell patients. However, cases of unregulated blood transfusion are shown to carry a high risk of alloimmunization to red blood cells (RBCs), which can lead to a hemolytic transfusion reaction and be fatal to patients. Screening and identification of alloantibodies are, therefore, essential practice in blood transfusion services. Transfusion of phenotyped blood can minimize these risks to patients. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A prospective study was carried out on 1015 donors, and a prospective and retrospective study was carried out on 208 multiple transfused patients with β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. Donor and patient samples were subjected to Rh & K typing, and patient samples were also subjected to screening & identification of RBC antibodies. We aimed to determine the prevalence of RBC antigens in thalassemia and sickle cell patients, as well as blood donors, at King Abdulaziz University Hospital and the frequency of alloimmunization in the selected patients. RESULTS The most commonly detected Rh-phenotype in donors was R1r (32.02%), followed by R1R1 (23.25%). Only 9.16% of donors were positive for the K antigen. The prevalence of Rh and K blood group antigens was also reported: the highest detected Rh-phenotype was R1r (40.86%) followed by R1R2 (24.04%) with only (6.25%) positive patients for K antigen. The rate of alloimmunization among sickle cell anemia and thalassemia patients was 39.42% and 35.57%, respectively. The highest specificity rates of the alloantibodies were recorded for anti-E and anti-K in both patient groups. CONCLUSION The rate of alloimmunization in transfused patients was high and particularly observed against the Rh and K antigens. This study emphasizes the clinical need for typing patient RBCs prior to transfusion so as to provide phenotyped matched blood units and minimize the risks and associated morbidities of alloimmunization. Keeping a database of phenotyped blood donors is essential for the clinically effective and safe management of transfusion patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa Hindawi
- Hematology Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha Badawi
- Hematology Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Refaat Elfayoumi
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Science King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek Elgemmezi
- Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abrar Al Hassani
- Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Raml
- Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seraj Alamoudi
- Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kholoud Gholam
- Blood Transfusion Services, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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44
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Shafie AA, Chhabra IK, Wong JHY, Mohammed NS. Mapping PedsQL™ Generic Core Scales to EQ-5D-3L utility scores in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2021; 22:735-747. [PMID: 33860379 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-021-01287-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a mapping algorithm for generating EQ-5D-3L utility scores from the PedsQL Generic Core Scales (PedsQL GCS) in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). METHODS The algorithm was developed using data from 345 TDT patients. Spearman's rank correlation was used to evaluate the conceptual overlap between the instruments. Model specifications were chosen using a stepwise regression. Both direct and response mapping methods were attempted. Six mapping estimation methods ordinary least squares (OLS), a log-transformed response using OLS, generalized linear model (GLM), two-part model (TPM), Tobit and multinomial logistic regression (MLOGIT) were tested to determine the root mean squared error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE). Other criterion used were accuracy of the predicted utility score, proportions of absolute differences that was less than 0.03 and intraclass correlation coefficient. An in-sample, leave-one-out cross validation was conducted to test the generalizability of each model. RESULTS The best performing model was specified with three out of the four PedsQL GCS scales-the physical, emotional and social functioning score. The best performing estimation method for direct mapping was a GLM with a RMSE of 0.1273 and MAE of 0.1016, while the best estimation method for response mapping was the MLOGIT with a RMSE of 0.1597 and MAE of 0.0826. CONCLUSION The mapping algorithm developed using the GLM would facilitate the calculation of utility scores to inform economic evaluations for TDT patients when EQ-5D data is not available. However, caution should be exercised when using this algorithm in patients who have poor quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asrul Akmal Shafie
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
- Institutional Planning and Strategic Centre, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Irwinder Kaur Chhabra
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Pharmacy Department, Sabah Women and Children's Hospital, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Karung Berkunci No.187, 88996, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Jacqueline Hui Yi Wong
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Jalan Pahang, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noor Syahireen Mohammed
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Clinical Research Center, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, KM 6, Jalan Langgar, 05460, Alor Setar, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia
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45
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Grech L, Borg K, Borg J. Novel therapies in β-thalassaemia. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 88:2509-2524. [PMID: 34004015 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassaemia is one of the most significant haemoglobinopathies worldwide resulting in the synthesis of little or no β-globin chains. Without treatment, β-thalassaemia major is lethal within the first decade of life due to the complex pathophysiology, which leads to wide clinical manifestations. Current clinical management for these patients depends on repeated transfusions followed by iron-chelating therapy. Several novel approaches to correct the resulting α/β-globin chain imbalance, treat ineffective erythropoiesis and improve iron overload are currently being developed. Up to now, the only curative treatment for β-thalassemia is haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation, but this is a risky and costly procedure. Gene therapy, gene editing and base editing are emerging as a powerful approach to treat this disease. In β-thalassaemia, gene therapy involves the insertion of a vector containing the normal β-globin or γ-globin gene into haematopoietic stem cells to permanently produce normal red blood cells. Gene editing and base editing involves the use of zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like nucleases and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 to either correct the causative mutation or else insert a single nucleotide variant that will increase foetal haemoglobin. In this review, we will examine the current management strategies used to treat β-thalassaemia and focus on the novel therapies targeting ineffective erythropoiesis, improving iron overload and correction of the globin chain imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Grech
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Malta
| | - Karen Borg
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Ministry for Health, Malta
| | - Joseph Borg
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Biobanking, University of Malta, Malta.,Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Malta
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46
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Lam JCM, Lee SY, Koh PL, Fong SZ, Abdul-Kadir NI, Lim CY, Zhang X, Bhattacharyya R, Soh SY, Chan MY, Tan AM, Kuperan P, Ang AL. Clinical and health-related quality of life outcomes of transfusion-dependent thalassaemia patients in Singapore. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 88:102547. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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47
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Babu T, Panachiyil GM, Sebastian J, Ravi MD. Effectiveness and tolerability of twice daily dosing of deferasirox in unresponsive and intolerant transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia patients: A narrative review. Indian J Pharmacol 2021; 52:514-519. [PMID: 33666193 PMCID: PMC8092177 DOI: 10.4103/ijp.ijp_333_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic iron overload in beta-thalassemia patients after continuous blood transfusions has caused notable morbidity and mortality in these patients. The once-a-day oral iron chelator, deferasirox has established efficacy and bearable safety in adults and pediatric thalassemia patients. It is now extensively used for the management of transfusional hemosiderosis. However, a number of studies have revealed a few patients continued to be none respondent or intolerant toward the once-a-day regimen of deferasirox even after the administration of maximum dose recommended by the World Health Organization. In the literature, there were three studies showing the boon of twice in a day dosing of deferasirox among transfusional-dependent beta thalassemia patients. Therefore, a nonsystematic review was conducted on above three studies to ascertain the enhanced effectiveness and tolerability of twice per day regimen of deferasirox with the same total dose as that of once daily regimen of deferasirox in unresponsive or intolerant transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia (TDT) patients. All the above studies concluded that the twice per day regimen of deferasirox was more efficacious and tolerable among TDT patients when compared to the once-a-day regimen with the same total daily dose. Although there was a significant good results from these studies, there is a need to conduct either muticenter study or randomized control study in a larger number of patients for the better confirmation of the results as all the above studies were conducted in the small number of TDT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tirin Babu
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
| | - George Mathew Panachiyil
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
| | - Juny Sebastian
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
| | - Mandyam Dhati Ravi
- Department of Paediatrics, JSS Medical College and Hospital, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
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Brusson M, Miccio A. Genome editing approaches to β-hemoglobinopathies. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:153-183. [PMID: 34175041 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
β-hemoglobinopathies are the most common monogenic disorders worldwide and are caused by mutations in the β-globin locus altering the production of adult hemoglobin (HbA). Transplantation of autologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) corrected by lentiviral vector-mediated addition of a functional β-like globin raised new hopes to treat sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia patients; however, the low expression of the therapeutic gene per vector copy is often not sufficient to fully correct the patients with a severe clinical phenotype. Recent advances in the genome editing field brought new possibilities to cure β-hemoglobinopathies by allowing the direct modification of specific endogenous loci. Double-strand breaks (DSBs)-inducing nucleases (i.e., ZFNs, TALENs and CRISPR-Cas9) or DSB-free tools (i.e., base and prime editing) have been used to directly correct the disease-causing mutations, restoring HbA expression, or to reactivate the expression of the fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which is known to alleviate clinical symptoms of β-hemoglobinopathy patients. Here, we describe the different genome editing tools, their application to develop therapeutic approaches to β-hemoglobinopathies and ongoing clinical trials using genome editing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mégane Brusson
- Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Chromatin and Gene Regulation During Development, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris, France.
| | - Annarita Miccio
- Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Chromatin and Gene Regulation During Development, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris, France.
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49
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Abstract
β-thalassemia is a lethal inherited disease resulting from β-globin gene mutations. Severe β-thalassemia requires regular blood transfusions. Other active interventions, including iron chelating, stem cell transplantation and gene therapy, have remarkably improved the quality of life and prolonged the survival of patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia, but all with significant limitations and complications. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), encoded by a class of endogenous genes, are found to play important roles in regulating globin expression. Among the miRNAs of particular interest related to β-thalassemia, miR-15a/16-1, miR-486-3p, miR-26b, miR-199b-5p, miR-210, miR-34a, miR-138, miR-326, let-7, and miR-17/92 cluster elevate γ-globin expression, while miR-96, miR-146a, miR-223-3p, and miR-144 inhibit γ-globin expression. A couple of miRNAs, miR-144 and miR-150, repress α-globin expression, whereas miR-451 induces α-, β- and γ-globin expression. Single nucleotide polymorphism in miRNA genes or their targeted genes might also contribute to the abnormal expression of hemoglobin. Moreover, changes in the expression of miR-125b, miR-210, miR-451, and miR-609 reflect the severity of anemia and hemolysis in β-thalassemia patients. These results suggest that miRNAs are potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of β-thalassemia, and miRNA-based therapeutic strategy might be used as a coordinated approach for effectively treating β-thalassemia.
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50
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Antoniou P, Miccio A, Brusson M. Base and Prime Editing Technologies for Blood Disorders. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:618406. [PMID: 34713251 PMCID: PMC8525391 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.618406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclease-based genome editing strategies hold great promise for the treatment of blood disorders. However, a major drawback of these approaches is the generation of potentially harmful double strand breaks (DSBs). Base editing is a CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing technology that allows the introduction of point mutations in the DNA without generating DSBs. Two major classes of base editors have been developed: cytidine base editors or CBEs allowing C>T conversions and adenine base editors or ABEs allowing A>G conversions. The scope of base editing tools has been extensively broadened, allowing higher efficiency, specificity, accessibility to previously inaccessible genetic loci and multiplexing, while maintaining a low rate of Insertions and Deletions (InDels). Base editing is a promising therapeutic strategy for genetic diseases caused by point mutations, such as many blood disorders and might be more effective than approaches based on homology-directed repair, which is moderately efficient in hematopoietic stem cells, the target cell population of many gene therapy approaches. In this review, we describe the development and evolution of the base editing system and its potential to correct blood disorders. We also discuss challenges of base editing approaches-including the delivery of base editors and the off-target events-and the advantages and disadvantages of base editing compared to classical genome editing strategies. Finally, we summarize the recent technologies that have further expanded the potential to correct genetic mutations, such as the novel base editing system allowing base transversions and the more versatile prime editing strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annarita Miccio
- Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Chromatin and Gene Regulation During Development, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris, France
| | - Mégane Brusson
- Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Laboratory of Chromatin and Gene Regulation During Development, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris, France
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