A longitudinal perspective on the pharmacotherapy of 24 adult patients with Phelan McDermid syndrome

Diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder in Phelan-McDermid syndrome: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability, delayed language development, autism spectrum disorders, motor tone abnormalities, and a high risk of psychiatric symptoms, including bipolar disorder.

CASE SUMMARY

This report presented an 18-year clinical history of a 36-year-old woman with PMS, marked by intellectual disabilities, social withdrawal, and stereotyped behaviors. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 18 years old, she encountered significant treatment challenges, including severe adverse reactions to antipsychotic medications in 2022, which led to speech and functional regression. Through rehabilitation and comprehensive therapy, her condition gradually improved. In 2024, after further treatment, her symptoms stabilized, highlighting the complexities and successes of long-term management.

CONCLUSION

Effective management of PMS requires a thorough clinical history, genetic testing, and long-term supportive care.

Genetics of kidney disorders in Phelan-McDermid syndrome: evidence from 357 registry participants

BACKGROUND

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by SHANK3 pathogenic variants or chromosomal rearrangements affecting the chromosome 22q13 region. Previous research found that kidney disorders, primarily congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, are common in people with PMS, yet research into candidate genes has been hampered by small study sizes and lack of attention to these problems.

METHODS

We used a cohort of 357 people from the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation International Registry to investigate the prevalence of kidney disorders in PMS using a cross-sectional design and to identify 22q13 genes contributing to these disorders.

RESULTS

Kidney disorders reported included vesicoureteral reflux (n = 37), hydronephrosis (n = 36), dysplastic kidneys (n = 19), increased kidney size (n = 19), polycystic kidneys (15 cases), and kidney stones (n = 4). Out of 315 subjects with a 22q13 deletion, 101 (32%) had at least one kidney disorder, while only one out of 42 (2%) individuals with a SHANK3 pathogenic variant had a kidney disorder (increased kidney size). We identified two genomic regions that were significantly associated with having a kidney disorder with the peak associations observed near positions approximately 5 Mb and 400 Kb from the telomere.

CONCLUSIONS

The candidate genes for kidney disorders include FBLN1, WNT7B, UPK3A, CELSR1, and PLXNB2. This study demonstrates the utility of patient registries for uncovering genetic contributions to rare diseases. Future work should focus on functional studies for these genes to assess their potential pathogenic contribution to the different subsets of kidney disorders.

Disrupted extracellular matrix and cell cycle genes in autism-associated Shank3 deficiency are targeted by lithium

The Shank3 gene encodes the major postsynaptic scaffolding protein SHANK3. Its mutation causes a syndromic form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD): Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMDS). It is characterized by global developmental delay, intellectual disorders (ID), ASD behavior, affective symptoms, as well as extra-cerebral symptoms. Although Shank3 deficiency causes a variety of molecular alterations, they do not suffice to explain all clinical aspects of this heterogenic syndrome. Since global gene expression alterations in Shank3 deficiency remain inadequately studied, we explored the transcriptome in vitro in primary hippocampal cells from Shank3∆11(-/-) mice, under control and lithium (Li) treatment conditions, and confirmed the findings in vivo. The Shank3∆11(-/-) genotype affected the overall transcriptome. Remarkably, extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell cycle transcriptional programs were disrupted. Accordingly, in the hippocampi of adolescent Shank3∆11(-/-) mice we found proteins of the collagen family and core cell cycle proteins downregulated. In vitro Li treatment of Shank3∆11(-/-) cells had a rescue-like effect on the ECM and cell cycle gene sets. Reversed ECM gene sets were part of a network, regulated by common transcription factors (TF) such as cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1) and β-Catenin (CTNNB1), which are known downstream effectors of synaptic activity and targets of Li. These TFs were less abundant and/or hypo-phosphorylated in hippocampi of Shank3∆11(-/-) mice and could be rescued with Li in vitro and in vivo. Our investigations suggest the ECM compartment and cell cycle genes as new players in the pathophysiology of Shank3 deficiency, and imply involvement of transcriptional regulators, which can be modulated by Li. This work supports Li as potential drug in the management of PMDS symptoms, where a Phase III study is ongoing.

Altered neural activity in the mesoaccumbens pathway underlies impaired social reward processing in Shank3-deficient rats

Social behaviors are crucial for human connection and belonging, often impacted in conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The mesoaccumbens pathway (VTA and NAc) plays a pivotal role in social behavior and is implicated in ASD. However, the impact of ASD-related mutations on social reward processing remains insufficiently explored. This study focuses on the Shank3 mutation, associated with a rare genetic condition and linked to ASD, examining its influence on the mesoaccumbens pathway during behavior, using the Shank3-deficient rat model. Our findings indicate that Shank3-deficient rats exhibit atypical social interactions and have difficulty adjusting behavior based on reward values, associated with modified neuronal activity of VTA dopaminergic and GABAergic neurons and reduced dopamine release in the NAc. Moreover, we demonstrate that manipulating VTA neuronal activity can normalize this behavior, providing insights into the effects of Shank3 mutations on social reward and behavior, and identify a potential neural pathway for intervention.

Drugs prescribed for Phelan-McDermid syndrome differentially impact sensory behaviors in shank3 zebrafish models

Background: Altered sensory processing is a pervasive symptom in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD); people with Phelan McDermid syndrome (PMS), in particular, show reduced responses to sensory stimuli. PMS is caused by deletions of the terminal end of chromosome 22 or point mutations in Shank3. People with PMS can present with an array of symptoms including ASD, epilepsy, gastrointestinal distress, and reduced responses to sensory stimuli. People with PMS are often medicated to manage behaviors like aggression and/or self-harm and/or epilepsy, and it remains unclear how these medications might impact perception/sensory processing. Here we test this using zebrafish mutant shank3ab PMS models that likewise show reduced sensory responses in a visual motor response (VMR) assay, in which increased locomotion is triggered by light to dark transitions. Methods: We screened three medications, risperidone, lithium chloride (LiCl), and carbamazepine (CBZ), prescribed to people with PMS and one drug, 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl) pyridine (MPEP) tested in rodent models of PMS, for their effects on a sensory-induced behavior in two zebrafish PMS models with frameshift mutations in either the N- or C- termini. To test how pharmacological treatments affect the VMR, we exposed larvae to selected drugs for 24 hours and then quantified their locomotion during four ten-minute cycles of lights on-to-off stimuli. Results: We found that risperidone normalized the VMR in shank3 models. LiCl and CBZ had no effect on the VMR in any of the three genotypes. MPEP reduced the VMR in wildtype (WT) to levels seen in shank3 models but caused no changes in either shank3 model. Finally, shank3 mutants showed resistance to the seizure-inducing drug pentylenetetrazol (PTZ), at a dosage that results in hyperactive swimming in WT zebrafish. Conclusions: Our work shows that the effects of drugs on sensory processing are varied in ways that can be highly genotype- and drug-dependent.

Early-onset catatonia associated with SHANK3 mutations: looking at the autism spectrum through the prism of psychomotor phenomena

Background

Individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) present with a wide range of diagnoses: autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or schizophrenia. Differences in the genetic background could explain these different neurodevelopmental trajectories. However, a more parsimonious hypothesis is to consider that they may be the same phenotypic entity. Catatonic disturbances occasionally reported from adolescence onwards in PMS prompts exploration of the hypothesis that this clinical entity may be an early-onset form of catatonia. The largest cohort of children with childhood catatonia was studied by the Wernicke-Kleist-Leonhard school (WKL school), which regards catatonia as a collection of qualitative abnormalities of psychomotricity that predominantly affecting involuntary motricity (reactive and expressive). The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of psychomotor signs in three young adults carrying a mutation or intragenic deletion of the SHANK3 gene through the prism of the WKL school conception of catatonia.

Methods

This study was designed as an exploratory case study. Current and childhood psychomotor phenomena were investigated through semi-structured interviews with the parents, direct interaction with the participants, and the study of documents reporting observations of the participants at school or by other healthcare professionals.

Results

The findings show catatonic manifestations from childhood that evolved into a chronic form, with possible phases of sub-acute exacerbations starting from adolescence.

Conclusion

The presence of catatonic symptoms from childhood associated with autistic traits leads us to consider that this singular entity fundamentally related to SHANK3 mutations could be a form of early-onset catatonia. Further case studies are needed to confirm our observations.

Updated consensus guidelines on the management of Phelan-McDermid syndrome

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic condition caused by SHANK3 haploinsufficiency and characterized by a wide range of neurodevelopmental and systemic manifestations. The first practice parameters for assessment and monitoring in individuals with PMS were published in 2014; recently, knowledge about PMS has grown significantly based on data from longitudinal phenotyping studies and large-scale genotype-phenotype investigations. The objective of these updated clinical management guidelines was to: (1) reflect the latest in knowledge in PMS and (2) provide guidance for clinicians, researchers, and the general community. A taskforce was established with clinical experts in PMS and representatives from the parent community. Experts joined subgroups based on their areas of specialty, including genetics, neurology, neurodevelopment, gastroenterology, primary care, physiatry, nephrology, endocrinology, cardiology, gynecology, and dentistry. Taskforce members convened regularly between 2021 and 2022 and produced specialty-specific guidelines based on iterative feedback and discussion. Taskforce leaders then established consensus within their respective specialty group and harmonized the guidelines. The knowledge gained over the past decade allows for improved guidelines to assess and monitor individuals with PMS. Since there is limited evidence specific to PMS, intervention mostly follows general guidelines for treating individuals with developmental disorders. Significant evidence has been amassed to guide the management of comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions in PMS, albeit mainly from caregiver report and the experience of clinical experts. These updated consensus guidelines on the management of PMS represent an advance for the field and will improve care in the community. Several areas for future research are also highlighted and will contribute to subsequent updates with more refined and specific recommendations as new knowledge accumulates.

Consensus recommendations on mental health issues in Phelan-McDermid syndrome

Phelan-McDermid syndrome is a rare genetic condition caused by a deletion encompassing the 22q13.3 region or a pathogenic variant of the gene SHANK3. The clinical presentation is variable, but main characteristics include global developmental delay/intellectual disability (ID), marked speech impairment or delay, along with other features like hypotonia and somatic or psychiatric comorbidities. This publication delineates mental health, developmental and behavioural themes across the lifetime of individuals with PMS as informed by parents/caregivers, experts, and other key professionals involved in PMS care. We put forward several recommendations based on the available literature concerning mental health and behaviour in PMS. Additionally, this article aims to improve our awareness of the importance of considering developmental level of the individual with PMS when assessing mental health and behavioural issues. Understanding how the discrepancy between developmental level and chronological age may impact concerning behaviours offers insight into the meaning of those behaviours and informs care for individuals with PMS, enabling clinicians to address unmet (mental health) care needs and improve quality of life.

Consensus recommendations on sleeping problems in Phelan-McDermid syndrome

Early onset sleep problems and disorders are very common in individuals with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS) with rates of up to 90%. These sleep problems and disorders cannot be taken lightly. Not only do they have a major impact on the health, behaviour, functioning and learning opportunities of affected individuals, they can also have detrimental effects on the well-being and resilience of parents and caregivers, ultimately affecting the physical health, mental health and well-being of the whole social system. In this review we aim to understand the types and frequencies of sleeping problems in PMS as the basis for recommendations on their management and treatment and to provide general guidelines for clinicians and practitioners. We conducted an in-depth literature search, summarised findings, and participated in a series of consensus meetings with other consortium members - experts on PMS and stakeholders - to agree on guidelines and recommendations. In parallel, a world-wide survey was created and distributed amongst parents to include their perspective. Our literature search found only three articles specifically focused on sleeping problems in PMS, although some other articles mentioned prevalence and associated factors. Country-specific prevalence rates ranged between 24% and 46%, whereas our parental survey reported 59%. The main problems reported involved difficulty falling asleep and numerous night awakenings, with being restless in sleep, night-time incontinence, and tooth grinding also commonly reported. Only a small number of individuals had undergone a sleep study monitored by a specialist. Bedtime resistance normally decreases with age, but sleep-onset delay, sleep anxiety, parasomnias, problems falling and remaining asleep remain throughout lifespan, with total sleep time improving during adulthood. However, this improvement was also accompanied by a substantial increase in parasomnias. Ultimately, an increase in sleep disorders in children correlates with increased sleep disorders and daytime sleepiness in parents/caregivers. No study to date has focused on the underlying causes of sleeping problems in PMS, but comorbid mental health conditions, somatic causes, or (poly)pharmacy have been proposed as triggers for sleeping disturbances. Currently there is no PMS-specific treatment for sleeping problems, and current recommendations are mostly based on individuals with intellectual disability and/or neurodevelopmental conditions.

Catatonia in neurodevelopmental disorders: assessing catatonic deterioration from baseline

Despite the inclusion of catatonia as a specifier of autism spectrum disorder in DSM-5, we-a team of child and adolescent neuropsychiatrists who specialise in paediatric catatonia and neurodevelopmental disorders-have identified a number of issues with the diagnosis and clinical management of catatonia in our patients. In this Personal View, we summarise the literature regarding catatonia in people with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, describe our concerns, and offer a novel approach to addressing important issues with current diagnostic and treatment paradigms. We emphasise the need for a measure to diagnose and monitor people with catatonia and their history of neurodevelopmental disorders. This measure should consider previous complex and underlying motor, medical, functional, and neurobehavioural symptoms. We propose two concepts for understanding catatonia that relate to the baseline status of an individual: the personalised score at baseline, an estimate of premorbid neurobehavioral and motor symptoms, and the catatonic deterioration from baseline, an estimate of current features that are due to catatonia rather than an underlying neurodevelopmental disorder. We hope this measure will provide a practical tool for clinicians and researchers working with this underserved and high-risk population.

"Your Life Turns Upside Down": A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Parents with Children Diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome

(1) Background: Parents of children with rare diseases experience great uncertainty and employ different strategies to care for their children and cope with the disease. The purpose of the present study was to describe the perspective of parents with children with Phelan McDermid Syndrome (PMS). (2) Methods: A non-probabilistic purposeful sampling was used to perform this qualitative descriptive study. Thirty-two parents with children with PMS were interviewed. In-depth interviews and research field notes were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. (3) Results: Four themes emerged from the data. "Understanding and accepting the disease" described how parents experienced their child's diagnosis and the lack of information. The second theme, called "Living day by day", highlighted the daily difficulties faced when caring for a child with PMS. The third theme, "Expectations versus reality", was based on the parents' expectations of parenthood and the reality they face. Expectations for the future are also included. Finally, "Pain and happiness" describes how parents alternate feelings of distress and suffering but also joy with what they learn from these experiences. (4) Conclusions: Health professionals can use these results to support parents.

Experiences surrounding the diagnostic process and care among parents of children diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid syndrome: A qualitative study

AIM

To explore the experience of parents of children diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) with regard to the diagnostic process, treatment, and medical care.

METHOD

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Participants were recruited using non-probabilistic purposeful sampling. In total, 32 parents with children with PMS were included. In-depth interviews and researcher field notes were used. An inductive thematic analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Five themes were identified: (1) the 'diagnostic process' describes the diagnostic process and how it is communicated to the parents; (2) 'treatment and expectations' describes the expectations and hopes placed on future treatment; (3) 'family planning' describes how parents deal with genetic counselling when planning to have more children after a diagnosis of PMS; (4) 'the world of disability' describes the entry of parents into an environment of dependency and disability after the diagnosis; (5) 'family's financial situation' highlights the financial difficulties due to the high cost of therapies and daily care products.

INTERPRETATION

Our results provide insight on how a diagnosis of PMS and its consequences are experienced by parents of children with PMS. These results can be used by health professionals to help and support parents.

Catatonia in autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities: a state-of-the-art review

Individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) may be at increased risk for catatonia, which can be an especially challenging condition to diagnose and treat. There may be symptom overlap between catatonia and NDD-associated behaviors, such as stereotypies. The diagnosis of catatonia should perhaps be adjusted to address symptom overlap and to include extreme behaviors observed in patients with NDDs, such as severe self-injury. Risk factors for catatonia in individuals with NDDs may include trauma and certain genetic variants, such as those that disrupt SHANK3. Common etiologic features between neurodevelopmental disabilities and catatonia, such as excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and neuroimmune dysfunction, may partially account for comorbidity. New approaches leveraging genetic testing and neuroimmunologic evaluation may allow for more precise diagnoses and effective treatments.

The psychiatric risk gene BRD1 modulates mitochondrial bioenergetics by transcriptional regulation

Bromodomain containing 1 (BRD1) encodes an epigenetic regulator that controls the expression of genetic networks linked to mental illness. BRD1 is essential for normal brain development and its role in psychopathology has been demonstrated in genetic and preclinical studies. However, the neurobiology that bridges its molecular and neuropathological effects remains poorly explored. Here, using publicly available datasets, we find that BRD1 targets nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins in cell lines and that modulation of BRD1 expression, irrespective of whether it is downregulation or upregulation of one or the other existing BRD1 isoforms (BRD1-L and BRD1-S), leads to distinct shifts in the expression profile of these genes. We further show that the expression of nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins is negatively correlated with the expression of BRD1 mRNA during human brain development. In accordance, we identify the key gate-keeper of mitochondrial metabolism, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) among BRD1's co-transcription factors and provide evidence that BRD1 acts as a co-repressor of PPAR-mediated transcription. Lastly, when using quantitative PCR, mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probes, and the Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer, we demonstrate that modulation of BRD1 expression in cell lines alters mitochondrial physiology (mtDNA content and mitochondrial mass), metabolism (reducing power), and bioenergetics (among others, basal, maximal, and spare respiration) in an expression level- and isoform-dependent manner. Collectively, our data suggest that BRD1 is a transcriptional regulator of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins and that disruption of BRD1's genomic actions alters mitochondrial functions. This may be the mechanism underlying the cellular and atrophic changes of neurons previously associated with BRD1 deficiency and suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be a possible link between genetic variation in BRD1 and psychopathology in humans.

State of the Science for Kidney Disorders in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome: UPK3A, FBLN1, WNT7B, and CELSR1 as Candidate Genes

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by chromosomal rearrangements affecting the 22q13.3 region or by SHANK3 pathogenic variants. The scientific literature suggests that up to 40% of individuals with PMS have kidney disorders, yet little research has been conducted on the renal system to assess candidate genes attributed to these disorders. Therefore, we first conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify kidney disorders in PMS and then pooled the data to create a cohort of individuals to identify candidate genes for renal disorders in PMS. We found 7 types of renal disorders reported: renal cysts, renal hypoplasia or agenesis, hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux, kidney dysplasia, horseshoe kidneys, and pyelectasis. Association analysis from the pooled data from 152 individuals with PMS across 22 articles identified three genomic regions spanning chromosomal bands 22q13.31, 22q13.32, and 22q13.33, significantly associated with kidney disorders. We propose UPK3A, FBLN1, WNT7B, and CELSR1, located from 4.5 Mb to 5.5 Mb from the telomere, as candidate genes. Our findings support the hypothesis that genes included in this region may play a role in the pathogenesis of kidney disorders in PMS.

Strong evidence for genotype-phenotype correlations in Phelan-McDermid syndrome: results from the developmental synaptopathies consortium

Individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) present with a wide range of developmental, medical, cognitive and behavioral abnormalities. Previous literature has begun to elucidate genotype-phenotype associations that may contribute to the wide spectrum of features. Here, we report results of genotype-phenotype associations in a cohort of 170 individuals with PMS. Genotypes were defined as Class I deletions (including SHANK3 only or SHANK3 with ARSA and/or ACR and RABL2B), Class II deletions (all other deletions) or sequence variants. Phenotype data were derived prospectively from direct evaluation, caregiver interview and questionnaires, and medical history. Analyses revealed individuals with Class I deletions or sequence variants had fewer delayed developmental milestones and higher cognitive ability compared to those with Class II deletions but had more skill regressions. Individuals with Class II deletions were more likely to have a variety of medical features, including renal abnormalities, spine abnormalities, and ataxic gait. Those with Class I deletions or sequence variants were more likely to have psychiatric diagnoses including bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia. Autism spectrum disorder diagnoses did not differ between groups. This study represents the largest and most rigorous genotype-phenotype analysis in PMS to date and provides important information for considering clinical functioning, trajectories and comorbidities as a function of specific genetic alteration.

Case study: organizing outpatient pharmacological treatment of bipolar disorder in autism, intellectual disability and Phelan-McDermid syndrome (22q13.3 deletion syndrome)

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PHMDS)/22q13.3 deletion syndrome is a rare genetic disorder associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and bipolar disorder. While numerous cases have been reported describing successful pharmacological treatment of bipolar disorder in PHMDS, there is currently little guidance available on how to organize and execute such treatment. The aim of the current case study was to explore how pharmacological treatment of bipolar disorder in PHMDS may be organized and evaluated in an outpatient setting. Through a complex process of try and fail, including systematic evaluation of any change to the intervention and never implementing more than one change at the time, the patient gradually improved, regaining his communicative and adaptive skills. Four years passed from referral to this result was achieved. Organizing assessment and treatment as a collaborative effort involving specialized mental health professionals, professional caregivers and the patient's family proved feasible. Many of the challenges present in assessment of psychiatric disorder in individuals with ASD and ID are likely to be present also in evaluation of treatment effects, particularly in disorders where symptoms occur in phases. The approach described in the current paper may contribute to reducing the impact of these challenges.

Understanding Behavior in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) or 22q13.3 deletion syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by developmental delay, hypotonia and severely delayed speech. Behavioral difficulties are often reported in PMS, although knowledge of behavioral profiles and the interpretation of reported behavior remains limited. Understanding the meaning of behavior requires considering the context as well as other domains of functioning, for example the individual's level of cognitive, social and emotional development. Combining structured direct in-person neurodevelopmental assessments with contextual assessments to enable meaningful interpretations of reported behavior on functional dimensions across multiple units of analysis, as proposed by the RDoc framework, is essential.

METHODS

In this article we present a structured multidisciplinary method of assessment through direct in-person neurodevelopmental assessments and assessment of contextual factors. Our study sample includes data of 33 children with an average age of 6.2 years (range 1.1 to 15.7) with PMS, obtained through individual in-person assessments in combination with parent informed questionnaires. We assessed developmental age using the Bayley-III, adaptive behavior was assessed with the Vineland screener, social-emotional development with the ESSEON-R and behavior by using the CBCL.

RESULTS

Our results show a great deal of variability in phenotypic presentation with regard to behavior, symptom expression and symptom severity in individuals with PMS. The data on behavior is interpreted in the context of the individual's level of cognitive, adaptive development and the (genetic) context. Behavioral data showed high levels of withdrawn behavior and attention problems. More than half of the children showed borderline or clinical symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

CONCLUSIONS

The interpretation of the meaning of certain behavior in PMS is often based on questionnaires and descriptions without taking the specific context of development into account. Combining questionnaires with direct in-person assessments measuring different domains of functioning should be considered a more accurate method to interpret the meaning of findings in order to understand behavior in rare genetic disorders associated with developmental delay such as PMS. Direct in-person assessment provides valuable and specific information relevant to understanding individual behavior and inform treatment as well as increase knowledge of the neurodevelopmental phenotype in individuals with PMS. More specific application of the proposed frameworks on behavior in PMS is desirable in making useful interpretations.

Neurocognitive follow-up in adult siblings with Phelan-McDermid syndrome due to a novel SHANK3 splicing site mutation

BACKGROUND

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMD) is usually not only caused by 22q13.3 deletion but also pathogenic variants (mutations) of SHANK3 gene. PMD is characterized by global intellectual disability, severely delayed or absent speech, and features of autism spectrum disorder and susceptibility to psychotic behavior. Here, we describe a neurocognitive follow-up and genetic etiology for two siblings with PMD.

METHOD

Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) array test was normal and no 22q13.3 deletion was observed. For this reason, whole exome sequencing (WES) analyzed the siblings' and the parents' DNA sample.

RESULTS

The results of the siblings strongly suggest that the SHANK3 gene variant c.2313+1G>A is pathogenic and PMD can be inherited from a mosaic father for this gene variant. Both siblings learned new skills until puberty but experienced a neuropsychiatric disaster after the age of 14 years experienced neurocognitive decline and it was sharp for one of the siblings.

CONCLUSION

The long-term observations are sparse in PMD and SHANK3 mutations. This is the neurocognitive follow-up from childhood to middle ages, where a sharp neurocognitive decline was observed. We conclude that progressive neuropsychiatric symptoms in adolescence are a universal clinical clue for PMD diagnosis and an underlying SHANK3 splicing site mutation.

The Neurological Manifestations of Phelan-McDermid Syndrome

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic disorder, caused by haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene on chromosome 22q13.3. PMS is characterized by neurobehavioral symptoms and signs including intellectual disability, speech and language impairment, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), hypotonia, and other motor abnormalities. In the brain, SHANK3 is expressed in neurons, especially in the synapse, and encodes a master scaffolding protein that forms a key framework in the postsynaptic density of glutamatergic synapses. Mutations in SHANK3 have also been identified in individuals with ASD, intellectual deficiency (ID), and schizophrenia. Shank3 deficient mice have defects in basal glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the hippocampus, and in synaptic transmission plasticity, including deficits in long-term potentiation, and show behavioral deficits compatible with the clinical manifestations of PMS. The PMS phenotype varies between affected individuals, but ID and speech and language impairment are present in all cases. ASD is present in a great majority of these individuals. Neurological examination demonstrates hypotonia and abnormalities of motor coordination, visual motor coordination, and gait in the majority of affected individuals. Sleep disturbances and increased pain tolerance are frequent parental complaints. Seizures and epilepsy are common, affecting more than 40% of individuals. Brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities include corpus callosum hypoplasia, delayed myelination and white matter abnormalities, dilated ventricles, and arachnoid cysts. Recent advanced imaging anatomic studies including diffusion tensor imaging, point to abnormal brain connectivity. The natural history of the syndrome is not yet fully known, but some individuals with PMS have a later onset of psychiatric illnesses including bipolar disease, accompanied by functional and neurological regression. Individuals with the syndrome are treated symptomatically. Advances in understanding the pathophysiology of this syndrome and the generation of animal models have raised opportunities for a biological cure for PMS. A pilot clinical trial with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) showed positive effects on some behavioral core symptoms.

Genetic Findings as the Potential Basis of Personalized Pharmacotherapy in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic disorder often characterized by autism or autistic-like behavior. Most cases are associated with haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene resulting from deletion of the gene at 22q13.3 or from a pathogenic variant in the gene. Treatment of PMS often targets SHANK3, yet deletion size varies from <50 kb to >9 Mb, potentially encompassing dozens of genes and disrupting regulatory elements altering gene expression, inferring the potential for multiple therapeutic targets. Repurposed drugs have been used in clinical trials investigating therapies for PMS: insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) for its effect on social and aberrant behaviors, intranasal insulin for improvements in cognitive and social ability, and lithium for reversing regression and stabilizing behavior. The pharmacogenomics of PMS is complicated by the CYP2D6 enzyme which metabolizes antidepressants and antipsychotics often used for treatment. The gene coding for CYP2D6 maps to 22q13.2 and is lost in individuals with deletions larger than 8 Mb. Because PMS has diverse neurological and medical symptoms, many concurrent medications may be prescribed, increasing the risk for adverse drug reactions. At present, there is no single best treatment for PMS. Approaches to therapy are necessarily complex and must target variable behavioral and physical symptoms of PMS.

Recent developments in Phelan-McDermid syndrome research: an update on cognitive development, communication and psychiatric disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to summarize the literature on cognitive development, communication, behavioral or psychiatric aspects in Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) and to discuss the clinical implications and recommendations of these summarized findings.

RECENT FINDINGS

PMS is often associated with severe communication impairments, behavioral or psychiatric problems and regression. These challenges may adversely affect and impair the quality of life of the individual with PMS and his family.

SUMMARY

Individuals with PMS experience intellectual disability, communication and behavioral/psychiatric challenges, such as catatonia, bipolar disorder and regression across the lifespan. Providing appropriate guidance and support to them and their families demands a better understanding of these challenges.

Phelan McDermid Syndrome: Multiple Sclerosis as a Rare but Treatable Cause for Regression-A Case Report

Phelan McDermid syndrome (PMcD) is a neurogenetic disease associated with haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene due to a spectrum of anomalies in the terminal region of the long arm of chromosome 22. SHANK3 is the abbreviation for SH3 domain and ankyrin repeat-containing protein, a gene that encodes for proteins of the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory synapses. This PSD is relevant for the induction and plasticity of spine and synapse formation as a basis for learning processes and long-term potentiation. Individuals with PMcD present with intellectual disability, muscular hypotonia, and severely delayed or absent speech. Further neuropsychiatric manifestations cover symptoms of the autism spectrum, epilepsy, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and regression. Regression is one of the most feared syndromes by relatives of PMcD patients. Current scientific evidence indicates that the onset of regression is variable and affects language, motor skills, activities of daily living and cognition. In the case of regression, patients normally undergo further diagnostics to exclude treatable reasons such as complex-focal seizures or psychiatric comorbidities. Here, we report, for the first time, the case of a young female who developed progressive symptoms of regression and a dystonic-spastic hemiparesis that could be traced back to a comorbid multiple sclerosis and that improved after treatment with methylprednisolone.

Catatonia: A Common Cause of Late Regression in Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication deficits and restricted interests and behaviors which begin very early in life. In about a quarter of cases, the symptoms emerge about 18-24 months after a period of normal development, a phenomenon commonly described as early regression. However, marked functional decline can also occur in persons with autism after a relatively stable childhood. As opposed to early regression, which occurs in normally developing children, late regression occurs typically in adolescents with an established diagnosis of autism. Apart from their occasional mention in the literature, these individuals have not been examined systematically. This Brief Report describes the presentation, comorbidity and short-term outcome of 20 persons with ASD who developed late regression. The mean age of onset of regression was 13 years. One of the earliest symptoms was an increase in obsessive slowing and compulsive rituals. Other symptoms included motor abnormalities, aggression and mood disturbance. The most common comorbid disorder was catatonia occurring in 17 patients. Despite treatment with several modalities, the outcome was often suboptimal. These findings suggest that catatonia is a common cause of late regression in persons with autism. Clinical and research implications are discussed.

Psychiatric illness and regression in individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome

BACKGROUND

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic condition characterized by intellectual disability, speech and language deficits, hypotonia, autism spectrum disorder, and epilepsy. PMS is caused by 22q13.33 deletions or mutations affecting SHANK3, which codes for a critical scaffolding protein in excitatory synapses. SHANK3 variants are also known to be associated with an increased risk for regression, as well as for psychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder and catatonia. This study aimed to further describe these phenomena in PMS and to explore any relationship between psychiatric illness and regression after early childhood.

METHODS

Thirty-eight people with PMS were recruited to this study through the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation based on caregiver report of distinct development of psychiatric symptoms. Caregivers completed a clinician-administered semi-structured interview focused on eliciting psychiatric symptomatology. Data from the PMS International Registry were used to confirm genetic diagnoses of participants and to provide a larger sample for comparison.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 38 participants was 24.7 years (range = 13 to 50; SD = 10.06). Females (31 of 38 cases; 82%) and sequence variants (15 of 38 cases; 39%) were over-represented in this sample, compared to base rates in the PMS International Registry. Onset of psychiatric symptoms occurred at a mean age of 15.4 years (range = 7 to 32), with presentations marked by prominent disturbances of mood. Enduring substantial loss of functional skills after onset of psychiatric changes was seen in 25 cases (66%). Symptomst indicative of catatonia occurred in 20 cases (53%). Triggers included infections, changes in hormonal status, and stressful life events.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that individuals with PMS are at risk of developing severe neuropsychiatric illness in adolescence or early adulthood, including bipolar disorder, catatonia, and lasting regression of skills. These findings should increase the awareness of these phenotypes and lead to earlier diagnosis and the implementation of appropriate interventions. Our findings also highlight the importance of genetic testing in the work-up of individuals with intellectual disability and acute psychiatric illness or regression. Future research is needed to clarify the prevalence and nature of psychiatric disorders and regression among larger unbiased samples of individuals with PMS.

Neuropsychiatric decompensation in adolescents and adults with Phelan-McDermid syndrome: a systematic review of the literature

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is caused by haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene on chromosome 22q13.33 and is characterized by intellectual disability, hypotonia, severe speech impairments, and autism spectrum disorder. Emerging evidence indicates that there are changes over time in the phenotype observed in individuals with PMS, including severe neuropsychiatric symptoms and loss of skills occurring in adolescence and adulthood. To gain further insight into these phenomena and to better understand the long-term course of the disorder, we conducted a systematic literature review and identified 56 PMS cases showing signs of behavioral and neurologic decompensation in adolescence or adulthood (30 females, 25 males, 1 gender unknown). Clinical presentations included features of bipolar disorder, catatonia, psychosis, and loss of skills, occurring at a mean age of 20 years. There were no apparent sex differences in the rates of these disorders except for catatonia, which appeared to be more frequent in females (13 females, 3 males). Reports of individuals with point mutations in SHANK3 exhibiting neuropsychiatric decompensation and loss of skills demonstrate that loss of one copy of SHANK3 is sufficient to cause these manifestations. In the majority of cases, no apparent cause could be identified; in others, symptoms appeared after acute events, such as infections, prolonged or particularly intense seizures, or changes in the individual's environment. Several individuals had a progressive neurological deterioration, including one with juvenile onset metachromatic leukodystrophy, a severe demyelinating disorder caused by recessive mutations in the ARSA gene in 22q13.33. These reports provide insights into treatment options that have proven helpful in some cases, and are reviewed herein. Our survey highlights how little is currently known about neuropsychiatric presentations and loss of skills in PMS and underscores the importance of studying the natural history in individuals with PMS, including both cross-sectional and long-term longitudinal analyses. Clearer delineation of these neuropsychiatric symptoms will contribute to their recognition and prompt management and will also help uncover the underlying biological mechanisms, potentially leading to improved interventions.