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Grodecki BM, Potluri SC, Olsen K, Eldib A, Scanga HL, Pihlblad MS, Nischal KK. Calcified Sclero-Choroidal Choristomas in Mosaic RASopathies: A Description of a New Imaging Sign. Ophthalmol Retina 2024; 8:710-722. [PMID: 38302056 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.01.022] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the imaging and clinical features of unusual calcified lesions seen in the fundus of patients with mosaic RASopathy. DESIGN Single-center retrospective observational study. SUBJECTS Ten eyes with calcified fundus lesions in 7 patients with mosaic RASopathy. METHODS The lesions were evaluated with fundus photography, oral fundus fluorescein angiography, B-scan ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scan where available. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The imaging characteristics of calcified fundus lesions were assessed. RESULTS We found 7 patients with mosaic RASopathies, 5 men and 2 women (3 with linear sebaceous nevus syndrome, 3 with oculoectodermal syndrome, and 1 with encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis) with molecular confirmation in 5 cases, all 5 having KRAS-pathogenic variants. Calcified fundus lesions were identified in 10 eyes (bilateral in 3 patients), appearing as slightly elevated, creamy-yellow lesions around or adjacent to the optic nerve, extending supero-nasally; all but 2 of these lesions involved both the choroid and sclera, with 2 of them only involving the sclera at the time of examination. One case developed a choroidal neovascular membrane necessitating intravitreal bevacizumab injections. All 7 patients had B-scan ultrasonography, and the lesion appeared as a hyperechogenic area with an acoustic shadow posteriorly despite reduced gain. Five patients had MRI, and where fundus lesions were present, there was a focal defect in the sclero-choroidal layer. Four patients had a CT scan, and all 4 showed calcifications affecting both the posteromedial sclero-choroid and adjacent medial rectus muscle. Two of these patients had normal eye movements, 1 had a unilateral fixed adducted eye and a vestigial fibrous medial rectus muscle seen in imaging and intraoperatively, and the fourth had marked exotropia with a right gaze deficit affecting both eyes. CONCLUSIONS We propose that the lesions seen in this cohort are calcified sclero-choroidal choristomas and should be suspected in mosaic RASopathies when creamy-yellow lesions are seen in the fundus. If identified, the possibility of choroidal neovascularization should be considered during follow-up. In all cases where a CT scan was performed, a novel sign of sclero-muscular calcification involving the medial rectus muscle was seen. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M Grodecki
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Saipriya C Potluri
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Karl Olsen
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Retina Vitreous Consultants, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Amgad Eldib
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vision Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Hannah L Scanga
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vision Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Matthew S Pihlblad
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vision Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ken K Nischal
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Children's Eye Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vision Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Hume E, Cossio ML, Vargas P, Cubillos MP, Maccioni A, Lay-Son G. Another face of RASA1: Report of familial germline variant in RASA1 with dysmorphic features. Am J Med Genet A 2024:e63711. [PMID: 38934655 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
RASopathies encompass a diverse set of disorders affecting genes that encode proteins within the RAS-MAPK pathway. RASA1 mutations are the cause of an autosomal dominant disorder called capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation type 1 (CM-AVM1). Unlike other RASopathies, facial dysmorphism has not been described in these patients. We phenotypically delineated a large family of individuals with multifocal fast-flow capillary malformations, severe lymphatic anomalies of perinatal onset, and dysmorphic features not previously described. Sequencing studies were performed on probands and related family members, confirming the segregation of dysmorphic features in affected members of a novel heterozygous variant in RASA1 (NM_002890.3:c.2366G>A, p.(Arg789Gln)). In this work, we broaden the phenotypic spectrum of CM-AVM type 1 and propose a new RASA1 variant as likely pathogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Hume
- Sección de Genética y Errores Congénitos del Metabolismo, División de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María-Laura Cossio
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paula Vargas
- Centro de Investigación e Innovación Materno Fetal, Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río, Santiago, Chile
- División de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María Paz Cubillos
- Servicio de Neonatología, Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrea Maccioni
- Servicio de Neonatología, Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Neonatología, División de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Guillermo Lay-Son
- Sección de Genética y Errores Congénitos del Metabolismo, División de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Unidad de Genética, Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río, Santiago, Chile
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Padhiyar J, Mahajan R, Panda M. RASopathies: Evolving Concepts in Pathogenetics, Clinical Features, and Management. Indian Dermatol Online J 2024; 15:392-404. [PMID: 38845651 PMCID: PMC11152490 DOI: 10.4103/idoj.idoj_594_23] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies refers to the group of disorders which are caused by a mutation in various genes of the RAS/MAPK (RAT sarcoma virus/Mitogen activated protein kinase) pathway. It includes many genes with varied functions, which are responsible for cell cycle regulation. As the mutation in one gene affects the entire pathway, there are many overlapping features among the various syndromes which are included under an umbrella term "RASopathies." However, neuroectodermal involvement is a unifying feature among these syndromes, which are caused by germline mutations affecting genes along this pathway. Recently, many other RASopathies have been described to involve blood vessels, lymphatics, and immune system. Also, many cutaneous mosaic disorders have been found to have mutations in the concerned pathway. The purpose of this article is to briefly review the pathogenesis of RASopathies with cutaneous manifestations, and summarise the features that can be helpful as diagnostic clues to dermatologists. As we understand more about the pathogenesis of the pathway at the cellular level, the research on genotype-phenotype correlation and therapeutic options broadens. Targeted therapy is in the clinical and preclinical trial phase, which may brighten the future of many patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jigna Padhiyar
- Department of DVL, Gujarat Cancer Society Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Rahul Mahajan
- Department of Dermatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Maitreyee Panda
- Department of Dermatology, IMS and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, India
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4
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McGhee CA, Honari H, Siqueiros-Sanchez M, Serur Y, van Staalduinen EK, Stevenson D, Bruno JL, Raman MM, Green T. Influences of RASopathies on Neuroanatomical Variation in Children. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024:S2451-9022(24)00103-4. [PMID: 38621478 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND RASopathies are a group of disorders characterized by pathogenic mutations in the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Ras/MAPK) signaling pathway. Distinct pathogenic variants in genes encoding proteins in the Ras/MAPK pathway cause Noonan syndrome (NS) and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), which are associated with increased risk for autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. METHODS This study examined the effect of RASopathies (NS and NF1) on human neuroanatomy, specifically on surface area (SA), cortical thickness (CT), and subcortical volumes. Using vertex-based analysis for cortical measures and Desikan region of interest parcellation for subcortical volumes, we compared structural T1-weighted images of children with RASopathies (n = 91, mean age = 8.81 years, SD = 2.12) to those of sex- and age-matched typically developing children (n = 74, mean age = 9.07 years, SD = 1.77). RESULTS Compared with typically developing children, RASopathies had convergent effects on SA and CT, exhibiting increased SA in the precentral gyrus, decreased SA in occipital regions, and thinner CT in the precentral gyrus. RASopathies exhibited divergent effects on subcortical volumes, with syndrome-specific influences from NS and NF1. Overall, children with NS showed decreased volumes in striatal and thalamic structures, and children with NF1 displayed increased volumes in the hippocampus, amygdala, and thalamus. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals the converging and diverging neuroanatomical effects of RASopathies on human neurodevelopment. The convergence of cortical effects on SA and CT indicates a shared influence of Ras/MAPK hyperactivation on the human brain. Therefore, considering these measures as objective outcome indicators for targeted treatments is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Alexa McGhee
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California.
| | - Hamed Honari
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | | | - Yaffa Serur
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Eric K van Staalduinen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - David Stevenson
- Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Jennifer L Bruno
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Mira Michelle Raman
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Tamar Green
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
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Debbaut E, Steyaert J, El Bakkali M. Autism spectrum disorder profiles in RASopathies: A systematic review. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2024; 12:e2428. [PMID: 38581124 PMCID: PMC10997847 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2428] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RASopathies are associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) there is ample evidence for this increased risk, while for other RASopathies this association has been studied less. No specific ASD profile has been delineated so far for RASopathies or a specific RASopathy individually. METHODS We conducted a systematic review to investigate whether a specific RASopathy is associated with a specific ASD profile, or if RASopathies altogether have a distinct ASD profile compared to idiopathic ASD (iASD). We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Open Grey for data about ASD features in RASopathies and potential modifiers. RESULTS We included 41 articles on ASD features in NF1, Noonan syndrome (NS), Costello syndrome (CS), and cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome (CFC). Individuals with NF1, NS, CS, and CFC on average have higher ASD symptomatology than healthy controls and unaffected siblings, though less than people with iASD. There is insufficient evidence for a distinct ASD phenotype in RASopathies compared to iASD or when RASopathies are compared with each other. We identified several potentially modifying factors of ASD symptoms in RASopathies. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review found no convincing evidence for a specific ASD profile in RASopathies compared to iASD, or in a specific RASopathy compared to other RASopathies. However, we identified important limitations in the research literature which may also account for this result. These limitations are discussed and recommendations for future research are formulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Debbaut
- Center for Developmental Psychiatry, Department of NeurosciencesKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Jean Steyaert
- Center for Developmental Psychiatry, Department of NeurosciencesKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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Mudau MM, Dillon B, Smal C, Feben C, Honey E, Carstens N, Krause A. Mutation analysis and clinical profile of South African patients with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) phenotype. Front Genet 2024; 15:1331278. [PMID: 38596211 PMCID: PMC11002079 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1331278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition with complete age-dependent penetrance, variable expressivity and a global prevalence of ∼1/3,000. It is characteriszed by numerous café-au-lait macules, skin freckling in the inguinal or axillary regions, Lisch nodules of the iris, optic gliomas, neurofibromas, and tumour predisposition. The diagnostic testing strategy for NF1 includes testing for DNA single nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variants (CNVs) as well as RNA analysis for deep intronic and splice variants, which can cumulatively identify the causative variant in 95% of patients. In the present study, NF1 patients were screened using a next-generation sequencing (NGS) assay targeting NF1 exons and intron/exon boundaries for SNV and NF1 multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis for CNV detection. Twenty-six unrelated Southern African patients clinically suspected of having NF1, based on the clinical diagnostic criteria developed by the National Institute of Health (NIH), were included in the current study. A detection rate of 58% (15/26) was obtained, with SNVs identified in 80% (12/15) using a targeted gene panel and NF1 gene deletion in 20% (3/15) identified using MLPA. Ten patients (38%) had no variants identified, although they met NF1 diagnostic criteria. One VUS was identified in this study in a patient that met NF1 diagnostic criteria, however there was no sufficient information to classify variant as pathogenic. The clinical features of Southern African patients with NF1 are similar to that of the known NF1 phenotype, with the exception of a lower frequency of plexiform neurofibromas and a higher frequency of developmental/intellectual disability compared to other cohorts. This is the first clinical and molecular characterisation of a Southern African ancestry NF1 cohort using both next-generation sequencing and MLPA analysis. A significant number of patients remained without a diagnosis following DNA-level testing. The current study offers a potential molecular testing strategy for our low resource environment that could benefit a significant proportion of patients who previously only received a clinical diagnosis without molecular confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mabyalwa Mudau
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Dillon
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Clarice Smal
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Candice Feben
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Engela Honey
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nadia Carstens
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Genomics Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amanda Krause
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Boufrikha W, Rakez R, Bizid I, Hadhri M, Njima M, Boukhris S, Laatiri M. A rare association of a high grade glioblastoma, cerebral abscess and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a child with Noonan syndrome. Leuk Res Rep 2023; 21:100404. [PMID: 38148892 PMCID: PMC10750179 DOI: 10.1016/j.lrr.2023.100404] [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: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Noonan syndrome is a genetic disorder frequently caused by PTPN11 mutations. Patients with Noonan syndrome are characterized by facial dysmorphism, short stature and congenital heart defects and they have a reported predisposition to malignancies such as leukemia, and solid and central nervous system tumors. Here, we report a case of a 14-year-old boy with Noonan syndrome treated for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia who presented with 2 concomitant abnormalities: cerebral abscess and high grade glioblastoma. This exceptional association exhibits to a poorer prognosis and may sometimes delay the diagnosis and therefore the therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiem Boufrikha
- Department of Hematology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Rim Rakez
- Department of Hematology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Inaam Bizid
- Department of Hematology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - M.Maher Hadhri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Manel Njima
- Department of Histopathology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sarra Boukhris
- Department of Hematology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - M.Adnene Laatiri
- Department of Hematology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
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8
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Astiazaran-Symonds E, Ney GM, Higgs C, Oba L, Srivastava R, Livinski AA, Rosenberg PS, Stewart DR. Cancer in Costello syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:2089-2096. [PMID: 36966234 PMCID: PMC10205753 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02229-7] [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: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Costello syndrome (CS) is a cancer-predisposition disorder caused by germline pathogenic variants in HRAS. We conducted a systematic review using case reports and case series to characterise cancer risk in CS. METHODS We conducted a systematic review to identify CS cases to create a retrospective cohort. We tested genotype-phenotype correlations and calculated cumulative incidence and hazard rates (HR) for cancer and cancer-free death, standardised incidence rates (SIR) and survival after cancer. RESULTS This study includes 234 publications reporting 621 patients from 35 countries. Over nine percent had cancer, including rhabdomyosarcoma, bladder, and neuroblastoma. The rate of cancer and death associated with p.Gly12Ser were lower when compared to all other variants (P < 0.05). Higher mortality for p.Gly12Cys, p.Gly12Asp, p.Gly12Val and p.Gly60Val and higher malignancy rate for p.Gly12Ala were confirmed (P < 0.05). Cumulative incidence by age 20 was 13% (cancer) and 11% (cancer-free death). HR (death) was 3-4% until age 3. Statistically significant SIRs were found for rhabdomyosarcoma (SIR = 1240), bladder (SIR = 1971), and neuroblastoma (SIR = 60). Survival after cancer appeared reduced. CONCLUSIONS This is the largest investigation of cancer in CS to date. The high incidence and SIR values found to highlight the need for rigorous surveillance and evidence-based guidelines for this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Astiazaran-Symonds
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine-Tucson, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Gina M Ney
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Cecilia Higgs
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Leatrisse Oba
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Radhika Srivastava
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Alicia A Livinski
- NIH Library, Office of Research Services, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Philip S Rosenberg
- Biostatistics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Douglas R Stewart
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA.
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Yin G, Huang J, Petela J, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wu J, Liu B, Shi J, Gao Y. Targeting small GTPases: emerging grasps on previously untamable targets, pioneered by KRAS. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:212. [PMID: 37221195 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases including Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran are omnipresent molecular switches in regulating key cellular functions. Their dysregulation is a therapeutic target for tumors, neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, and infection. However, small GTPases have been historically recognized as "undruggable". Targeting KRAS, one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, has only come into reality in the last decade due to the development of breakthrough strategies such as fragment-based screening, covalent ligands, macromolecule inhibitors, and PROTACs. Two KRASG12C covalent inhibitors have obtained accelerated approval for treating KRASG12C mutant lung cancer, and allele-specific hotspot mutations on G12D/S/R have been demonstrated as viable targets. New methods of targeting KRAS are quickly evolving, including transcription, immunogenic neoepitopes, and combinatory targeting with immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the vast majority of small GTPases and hotspot mutations remain elusive, and clinical resistance to G12C inhibitors poses new challenges. In this article, we summarize diversified biological functions, shared structural properties, and complex regulatory mechanisms of small GTPases and their relationships with human diseases. Furthermore, we review the status of drug discovery for targeting small GTPases and the most recent strategic progress focused on targeting KRAS. The discovery of new regulatory mechanisms and development of targeting approaches will together promote drug discovery for small GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Johnny Petela
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yuetong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siqi Gong
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bei Liu
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, School of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Yijun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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10
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Marmion RA, Simpkins AG, Barrett LA, Denberg DW, Zusman S, Schottenfeld-Roames J, Schüpbach T, Shvartsman SY. Stochastic phenotypes in RAS-dependent developmental diseases. Curr Biol 2023; 33:807-816.e4. [PMID: 36706752 PMCID: PMC10026697 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.01.008] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Germline mutations upregulating RAS signaling are associated with multiple developmental disorders. A hallmark of these conditions is that the same mutation may present vastly different phenotypes in different individuals, even in monozygotic twins. Here, we demonstrate how the origins of such largely unexplained phenotypic variations may be dissected using highly controlled studies in Drosophila that have been gene edited to carry activating variants of MEK, a core enzyme in the RAS pathway. This allowed us to measure the small but consistent increase in signaling output of such alleles in vivo. The fraction of mutation carriers reaching adulthood was strongly reduced, but most surviving animals had normal RAS-dependent structures. We rationalize these results using a stochastic signaling model and support it by quantifying cell fate specification errors in bilaterally symmetric larval trachea, a RAS-dependent structure that allows us to isolate the effects of mutations from potential contributions of genetic modifiers and environmental differences. We propose that the small increase in signaling output shifts the distribution of phenotypes into a regime, where stochastic variation causes defects in some individuals, but not in others. Our findings shed light on phenotypic heterogeneity of developmental disorders caused by deregulated RAS signaling and offer a framework for investigating causal effects of other pathogenic alleles and mild mutations in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Marmion
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - Alison G Simpkins
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - Lena A Barrett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - David W Denberg
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - Susan Zusman
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | | | - Trudi Schüpbach
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
| | - Stanislav Y Shvartsman
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA; Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation, New York, NY 10010, USA.
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11
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Characterization of Cardiac Function by Echocardiographic Global Longitudinal Strain in a Cohort of Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Treated with Selumetinib. Paediatr Drugs 2023; 25:217-224. [PMID: 36529809 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-022-00551-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plexiform neurofibromas are benign neoplasms that develop in 20-50% children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Selumetinib was approved as treatment for symptomatic and inoperable plexiform neurofibromas. Subclinical left ventricular ejection fraction reduction is a less common effect of selumetinib. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the contractile function of the heart in a cohort of children with NF1 treated with selumetinib. METHODS We designed a cross-sectional study including 17 patients with NF1 who received selumetinib. Echocardiographic parameters were compared with a cohort of 17 healthy children matched by sex and age and another group of 17 children with untreated NF1. RESULTS Compared with healthy controls, patients with NF1 treated with selumetinib had lower mean values of global longitudinal strain (- 22.9 ± 2% vs -25.5 ± 2%; p = 0.001), fractional shortening (36 ± 4% vs 43 ± 8%; p = 0.02) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (19 ± 3 mm vs 23 ± 2 mm; p = 0.001); no difference was found in left ventricular ejection fraction (63 ± 4% vs 65 ± 3%; p = 0.2 respectively). Median treatment time with selumetinib at the time of the echocardiographic evaluation was 22 ± 16 months. CONCLUSIONS Patients with NF1 treated with selumetinib may experience subtle changes in systolic function identified by global longitudinal strain and not revealed by left ventricular ejection fraction. Global longitudinal strain might be useful to monitor cardiac function in this cohort of patients for the duration of therapy.
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12
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Coccia E, Valeri L, Zuntini R, Caraffi SG, Peluso F, Pagliai L, Vezzani A, Pietrangiolillo Z, Leo F, Melli N, Fiorini V, Greco A, Lepri FR, Pisaneschi E, Marozza A, Carli D, Mussa A, Radio FC, Conti B, Iascone M, Gargano G, Novelli A, Tartaglia M, Zuffardi O, Bedeschi MF, Garavelli L. Prenatal Clinical Findings in RASA1-Related Capillary Malformation-Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030549. [PMID: 36980822 PMCID: PMC10048332 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in RASA1 are typically associated with a clinical condition called “capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation” (CM-AVM) syndrome, an autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by a broad phenotypic variability, even within families. In CM-AVM syndrome, multifocal capillary and arteriovenous malformations are mainly localized in the central nervous system, spine and skin. Although CM-AVM syndrome has been widely described in the literature, only 21 cases with prenatal onset of clinical features have been reported thus far. Here, we report four pediatric cases of molecularly confirmed CM-AVM syndrome which manifested during the prenatal period. Polyhydramnios, non-immune hydrops fetalis and chylothorax are only a few possible aspects of this condition, but a correct interpretation of these prenatal signs is essential due to the possible fatal consequences of unrecognized encephalic and thoracoabdominal deep vascular malformations in newborns and in family members carrying the same RASA1 variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Coccia
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, Postgraduate School of Medical Genetics, Alma Mater StudiorumUniversity of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lara Valeri
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Paediatrics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Roberta Zuntini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefano Giuseppe Caraffi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0522-296158/+39-0522-296244
| | - Francesca Peluso
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliai
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Antonietta Vezzani
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Zaira Pietrangiolillo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Leo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Nives Melli
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Fiorini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Andrea Greco
- Postgraduate School of Paediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Lepri
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Pisaneschi
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Annabella Marozza
- Medical Genetics Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Diana Carli
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mussa
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Conti
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Iascone
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Gargano
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Antonio Novelli
- Translational Cytogenomics Research Unit, Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Molecular Genetics and Functional Genomics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Orsetta Zuffardi
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Bedeschi
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Livia Garavelli
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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MAPK Pathways in Ocular Pathophysiology: Potential Therapeutic Drugs and Challenges. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040617. [PMID: 36831285 PMCID: PMC9954064 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways represent ubiquitous cellular signal transduction pathways that regulate all aspects of life and are frequently altered in disease. Once activated through phosphorylation, these MAPKs in turn phosphorylate and activate transcription factors present either in the cytoplasm or in the nucleus, leading to the expression of target genes and, as a consequence, they elicit various biological responses. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive review focusing on the roles of MAPK signaling pathways in ocular pathophysiology and the potential to influence these for the treatment of eye diseases. We summarize the current knowledge of identified MAPK-targeting compounds in the context of ocular diseases such as macular degeneration, cataract, glaucoma and keratopathy, but also in rare ocular diseases where the cell differentiation, proliferation or migration are defective. Potential therapeutic interventions are also discussed. Additionally, we discuss challenges in overcoming the reported eye toxicity of some MAPK inhibitors.
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14
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Revertant Mosaicism in Genodermatoses: Natural Gene Therapy Right before Your Eyes. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092118. [PMID: 36140224 PMCID: PMC9495737 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092118] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Revertant mosaicism (RM) is the intriguing phenomenon in which nature itself has successfully done what medical science is so eagerly trying to achieve: correcting the effect of disease-causing germline variants and thereby reversing the disease phenotype back to normal. RM was molecularly confirmed for the first time in a genodermatosis in 1997, the genetic skin condition junctional epidermolysis bullosa (EB). At that time, RM was considered an extraordinary phenomenon. However, several important discoveries have changed this conception in the past few decades. First, RM has now been identified in all major subtypes of EB. Second, RM has also been identified in many other genodermatoses. Third, a theoretical mathematical exercise concluded that reverse mutations should be expected in all patients with a recessive subtype of EB or any other genodermatosis. This has shifted the paradigm from RM being an extraordinary phenomenon to it being something that every physician working in the field of genodermatoses should be looking for in every patient. It has also raised hope for new treatment options in patients with genodermatoses. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on RM and discuss the perspectives of RM for the future treatment of patients with genodermatoses.
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15
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Diociaiuti A, Rotunno R, Pisaneschi E, Cesario C, Carnevale C, Condorelli AG, Rollo M, Di Cecca S, Quintarelli C, Novelli A, Zambruno G, El Hachem M. Clinical and Molecular Spectrum of Sporadic Vascular Malformations: A Single-Center Study. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061460. [PMID: 35740480 PMCID: PMC9220263 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporadic vascular malformations (VMs) are a large group of disorders of the blood and lymphatic vessels caused by somatic mutations in several genes—mainly regulating the RAS/MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. We performed a cross-sectional study of 43 patients affected with sporadic VMs, who had received molecular diagnosis by high-depth targeted next-generation sequencing in our center. Clinical and imaging features were correlated with the sequence variants identified in lesional tissues. Six of nine patients with capillary malformation and overgrowth (CMO) carried the recurrent GNAQ somatic mutation p.Arg183Gln, while two had PIK3CA mutations. Unexpectedly, 8 of 11 cases of diffuse CM with overgrowth (DCMO) carried known PIK3CA mutations, and the remaining 3 had pathogenic GNA11 variants. Recurrent PIK3CA mutations were identified in the patients with megalencephaly–CM–polymicrogyria (MCAP), CLOVES, and Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome. Interestingly, PIK3CA somatic mutations were associated with hand/foot anomalies not only in MCAP and CLOVES, but also in CMO and DCMO. Two patients with blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome carried double somatic TEK mutations, two of which were previously undescribed. In addition, a novel sporadic case of Parkes Weber syndrome (PWS) due to an RASA1 mosaic pathogenic variant was described. Finally, a girl with a mild PWS and another diagnosed with CMO carried pathogenic KRAS somatic variants, showing the variability of phenotypic features associated with KRAS mutations. Overall, our findings expand the clinical and molecular spectrum of sporadic VMs, and show the relevance of genetic testing for accurate diagnosis and emerging targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Diociaiuti
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (R.R.); (C.C.); (M.E.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0668592509
| | - Roberta Rotunno
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (R.R.); (C.C.); (M.E.H.)
| | - Elisa Pisaneschi
- Translational Cytogenomics Unit, Multimodal Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Claudia Cesario
- Translational Cytogenomics Unit, Multimodal Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Claudia Carnevale
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (R.R.); (C.C.); (M.E.H.)
| | - Angelo Giuseppe Condorelli
- Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.G.C.); (G.Z.)
| | - Massimo Rollo
- Interventional Radiology Unit, Department of Imaging, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy;
| | - Stefano Di Cecca
- Department Onco-Haematology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.D.C.); (C.Q.)
| | - Concetta Quintarelli
- Department Onco-Haematology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.D.C.); (C.Q.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Novelli
- Translational Cytogenomics Unit, Multimodal Medicine Research Area, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (C.C.); (A.N.)
| | - Giovanna Zambruno
- Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (A.G.C.); (G.Z.)
| | - May El Hachem
- Dermatology Unit and Genodermatosis Unit, Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy; (R.R.); (C.C.); (M.E.H.)
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16
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Kontaridis MI, Chennappan S. Mitochondria and the future of RASopathies: the emergence of bioenergetics. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:1-5. [PMID: 35426371 PMCID: PMC9017150 DOI: 10.1172/jci157560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
RASopathies are a family of rare autosomal dominant disorders that affect the canonical Ras/MAPK signaling pathway and manifest as neurodevelopmental systemic syndromes, including Costello syndrome (CS). In this issue of the JCI, Dard et al. describe the molecular determinants of CS using a myriad of genetically modified models, including mice expressing HRAS p.G12S, patient-derived skin fibroblasts, hiPSC-derived human cardiomyocytes, an HRAS p.G12V zebrafish model, and human lentivirally induced fibroblasts overexpressing HRAS p.G12S or HRAS p.G12A. Mitochondrial proteostasis and oxidative phosphorylation were altered in CS, and inhibition of the AMPK signaling pathway mediated bioenergetic changes. Importantly, the pharmacological induction of this pathway restored cardiac function and reduced the developmental defects associated with CS. These findings identify a role for altered bioenergetics and provide insights into more effective treatment strategies for patients with RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria I. Kontaridis
- Masonic Medical Research Institute, Department of Biological Sciences and Translational Medicine, Utica, New York, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Saravanakkumar Chennappan
- Masonic Medical Research Institute, Department of Biological Sciences and Translational Medicine, Utica, New York, USA
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17
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Abstract
The term RASopathy was originally created to describe a phenotypically similar group of medical genetic syndromes caused by germline pathogenic variants in components of the RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (RAS/MAPK) pathway. In defining a RASopathy syndrome, one needs to consider the complex nature of the RAS/MAPK pathway, the numerous genes and regulatory components involved, its crosstalk with other signaling pathways and the phenotypic spectrum among these syndromes. Three main guiding principles to the definition should be considered. First, a RASopathy is a clinical syndrome with overlapping phenotypic features caused by germline pathogenic variants associated with the RAS/MAPK pathway. Second, a RASopathy is caused by multiple pathogenetic mechanisms, all of which lead to a similar outcome of RAS/MAPK pathway activation/dysregulation. Finally, because a RASopathy has dysfunctional germline RAS/MAPK pathway activation/dysregulation, it may, therefore, be amenable to treatment with pathway modulators. Summary: RASopathy is a term used to unify a phenotypically similar group of medical genetic syndromes, yet its definition is challenging and should consider the perspectives of clinicians, scientists and the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Rauen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genomic Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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18
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Duong D, Waikel RL, Hu P, Tekendo-Ngongang C, Solomon BD. Neural network classifiers for images of genetic conditions with cutaneous manifestations. HGG ADVANCES 2022; 3:100053. [PMID: 35047844 PMCID: PMC8756521 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2021.100053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural networks have shown strong potential in research and in healthcare. Mainly due to the need for large datasets, these applications have focused on common medical conditions, where more data are typically available. Leveraging publicly available data, we trained a neural network classifier on images of rare genetic conditions with skin findings. We used approximately 100 images per condition to classify 6 different genetic conditions. We analyzed both preprocessed images that were cropped to show only the skin lesions as well as more complex images showing features such as the entire body segment, the person, and/or the background. The classifier construction process included attribution methods to visualize which pixels were most important for computer-based classification. Our classifier was significantly more accurate than pediatricians or medical geneticists for both types of images and suggests steps for further research involving clinical scenarios and other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dat Duong
- Medical Genomics Unit, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rebekah L. Waikel
- Medical Genomics Unit, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ping Hu
- Medical Genomics Unit, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Cedrik Tekendo-Ngongang
- Medical Genomics Unit, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Benjamin D. Solomon
- Medical Genomics Unit, Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Corresponding author
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19
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Congenital tumors arising from nevus sebaceous in 2 neonates. JAAD Case Rep 2022; 21:70-73. [PMID: 35198703 PMCID: PMC8841502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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20
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Chang KC. Influence of Sox protein SUMOylation on neural development and regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:477-481. [PMID: 34380874 PMCID: PMC8504373 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.320968] [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] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
SRY-related HMG-box (Sox) transcription factors are known to regulate central nervous system development and are involved in several neurological diseases. Post-translational modification of Sox proteins is known to alter their functions in the central nervous system. Among the different types of post-translational modification, small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) modification of Sox proteins has been shown to modify their transcriptional activity. Here, we review the mechanisms of three Sox proteins in neuronal development and disease, along with their transcriptional changes under SUMOylation. Across three species, lysine is the conserved residue for SUMOylation. In Drosophila, SUMOylation of SoxN plays a repressive role in transcriptional activity, which impairs central nervous system development. However, deSUMOylation of SoxE and Sox11 plays neuroprotective roles, which promote neural crest precursor formation in Xenopus and retinal ganglion cell differentiation as well as axon regeneration in the rodent. We further discuss a potential translational therapy by SUMO site modification using AAV gene transduction and Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-Cas9 technology. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of Sox SUMOylation, especially in the rodent system, may provide a therapeutic strategy to address issues associated with neuronal development and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Che Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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21
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Sato A, Ikeda K. Genetic and Environmental Contributions to Autism Spectrum Disorder Through Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 2:95-105. [PMID: 36325164 PMCID: PMC9616270 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s reciprocal social interaction and communication ability. Numerous genetic and environmental conditions are associated with ASD, including tuberous sclerosis complex, phosphatase and tensin homolog hamartoma tumor syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and neurofibromatosis 1. The pathogenic molecular mechanisms of these diseases are integrated into the hyperactivation of mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1). Rodent models of these diseases have shown high mTORC1 activity in the brain and ASD-related behavioral deficits, which were reversed by the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin. Environmental stress can also affect this signaling pathway. In utero exposure to valproate caused ASD in offspring and enhanced mTORC1 activity in the brain, which was sensitive to mTORC1 inhibition. mTORC1 is a signaling hub for diverse cellular functions, including protein synthesis, through the phosphorylation of its targets, such as ribosomal protein S6 kinases. Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5–mediated synaptic function is also affected by the dysregulation of mTORC1 activity, such as in fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. Reversing these downstream changes that are associated with mTORC1 activation normalizes behavioral defects in rodents. Despite abundant preclinical evidence, few clinical studies have investigated the treatment of ASD and cognitive deficits. Therapeutics other than mTORC1 inhibitors failed to show efficacy in fragile X syndrome and neurofibromatosis 1. mTORC1 inhibitors have been tested mainly in tuberous sclerosis complex, and their effects on ASD and neuropsychological deficits are promising. mTORC1 is a promising target for the pharmacological treatment of ASD associated with mTORC1 activation.
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22
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Schmidt VF, Wieland I, Wohlgemuth WA, Ricke J, Wildgruber M, Zenker M. Mosaic RASopathy due to KRAS variant G12D with segmental overgrowth and associated peripheral vascular malformations. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 185:3122-3128. [PMID: 34114335 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic RAS variants lead to constitutive overactivation and increased signal transduction into downstream pathways. They are found as somatic driver events in various types of human cancer. In a somatic mosaic status, the same RAS variants have been associated with a wide spectrum of focal or segmental tissue dysplasia and overgrowth including various types of congenital nevi, vascular malformations, and other changes (mosaic RASopathies). We present a 3-year-old male patient with segmental overgrowth of the subcutaneous fatty tissue of the right lower extremity with colocalized arteriovenous and capillary malformations and dysplastic draining veins in combination with talipes equinovarus of the right foot. In tissue biopsies of the affected extremity, we identified a mosaic KRAS variant, c.35G>A (p.Gly12Asp), while this variant was absent in the DNA extracted from a biopsy of the normal extremity. This report provides further evidence for the wide clinical and phenotypic variability associated with mosaic KRAS variants. The described pattern confirms that the combination of segmental overgrowth and vascular anomalies in the form of arteriovenous and capillary malformations is a possible manifestation of a mosaic RASopathy. The accurate genetic diagnosis is crucial for molecular-targeted therapy, which might be a future therapeutic target for mosaic RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ilse Wieland
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Walter A Wohlgemuth
- Department of Radiology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Jens Ricke
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Moritz Wildgruber
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Zenker
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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23
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Silverberg N, Sidbury R. Genodermatoses 2020: Part 1. Clin Dermatol 2020; 38:397-398. [PMID: 32972598 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Sidbury
- University of Washington School of Medicine, and Division of Dermatology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
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