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Marelli S, Micaglio E, Taurino J, Salvi P, Rurali E, Perrucci GL, Dolci C, Udugampolage NS, Caruso R, Gentilini D, Trifiro' G, Callus E, Frigiola A, De Vincentiis C, Pappone C, Parati G, Pini A. Marfan Syndrome: Enhanced Diagnostic Tools and Follow-up Management Strategies. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2284. [PMID: 37443678 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13132284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a rare inherited autosomic disorder, which encompasses a variety of systemic manifestations caused by mutations in the Fibrillin-1 encoding gene (FBN1). Cardinal clinical phenotypes of MFS are highly variable in terms of severity, and commonly involve cardiovascular, ocular, and musculoskeletal systems with a wide range of manifestations, such as ascending aorta aneurysms and dissection, mitral valve prolapse, ectopia lentis and long bone overgrowth, respectively. Of note, an accurate and prompt diagnosis is pivotal in order to provide the best treatment to the patients as early as possible. To date, the diagnosis of the syndrome has relied upon a systemic score calculation as well as DNA mutation identification. The aim of this review is to summarize the latest MFS evidence regarding the definition, differences and similarities with other connective tissue pathologies with severe systemic phenotypes (e.g., Autosomal dominant Weill-Marchesani syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome) and clinical assessment. In this regard, the management of MFS requires a multidisciplinary team in order to accurately control the evolution of the most severe and potentially life-threatening complications. Based on recent findings in the literature and our clinical experience, we propose a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists in different clinical fields (i.e., cardiologists, surgeons, ophthalmologists, orthopedics, pneumologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, geneticists, and psychologists) to comprehensively characterize, treat, and manage MFS patients with a personalized medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Marelli
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Micaglio
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Salvi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Erica Rurali
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca L Perrucci
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Dolci
- Laboratory of Functional Anatomy of the Stomatognathic System (LAFAS), Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Rosario Caruso
- Clinical Research Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Gentilini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Bioinformatics and Statistical Genomics Unit, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20095 Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliana Trifiro'
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Edward Callus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Clinical Psychology Service, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frigiola
- Department of Congenital Cardiac Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Association "Bambini Cardiopatici nel Mondo" Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), 20123 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo De Vincentiis
- Department of Cardiothoracic, Vascular Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Pappone
- Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cardiology Unit, IRCCS, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy
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2
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Chiu HH. An update of medical care in Marfan syndrome. Tzu Chi Med J 2022; 34:44-48. [PMID: 35233355 PMCID: PMC8830539 DOI: 10.4103/tcmj.tcmj_95_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS), a multisystemic connective disorder, caused by fibrillin 1 gene mutations with autosomal dominant inheritance. The disease spectrum is wide and the major causes of death are related to aortic root aneurysm or dissection. The purposes of medical treatment are to reduce structural changes in the aortic wall and slow aortic root dilatation. Advance in medical researches have provided new insights into the pathogenesis of disease and opened up new horizons for treatments. Several medications such as angiotensin II type I receptor blockers, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, tetracyclines, and statins have been studied for the purpose. Currently, the life expectancy of Marfan patients improves significantly and is closes to the general population with proper treatment. In this article, we review and update the medical treatments for patients with MFS.
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Tehrani AY, Ciufolini MA, Bernatchez P. Nitric oxide in the Marfan vasculature: Friend or foe? Nitric Oxide 2021; 116:27-34. [PMID: 34478846 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in the FBN1 gene, which encodes fibrillin-1, a protein essential for the formation and stabilization of elastic fibers as well as signaling homeostasis. Progressive aortic root widening is the most serious manifestation of MFS as it can lead to aortic dissection, aneurysm formation and rupture. However, despite their ability to decrease the hemodynamic stress the aorta is subjected to, anti-hypertensive medications often lead to underwhelming reductions in the rate of aortic root dilation, which illustrates how fragmental our understanding of MFS-associated aortic remodeling is. This manuscript summarizes recent evidence that document nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS)-related changes to the vasculature during the pathogenesis of MFS and how they result in a unique state of vascular dysfunction that likely plays a causal role in the aortic root widening process. We also review how clinic-approved and experimental therapies as well lifestyle approaches may promote aortic root stability by correcting NO homeostasis, which if properly optimized may improve outcomes in this population afflicted by a notoriously refractory type of aortopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Y Tehrani
- Centre for Heart + Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Pascal Bernatchez
- Centre for Heart + Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada.
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4
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Toral M, de la Fuente-Alonso A, Campanero MR, Redondo JM. The NO signalling pathway in aortic aneurysm and dissection. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:1287-1303. [PMID: 34599830 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that NO is a central mediator in diseases associated with thoracic aortic aneurysm, such as Marfan syndrome. The progressive dilation of the aorta in thoracic aortic aneurysm ultimately leads to aortic dissection. Unfortunately, current medical treatments have neither halt aortic enlargement nor prevented rupture, leaving surgical repair as the only effective treatment. There is therefore a pressing need for effective therapies to delay or even avoid the need for surgical repair in thoracic aortic aneurysm patients. Here, we summarize the mechanisms through which NO signalling dysregulation causes thoracic aortic aneurysm, particularly in Marfan syndrome. We discuss recent advances based on the identification of new Marfan syndrome mediators related to pathway overactivation that represent potential disease biomarkers. Likewise, we propose iNOS, sGC and PRKG1, whose pharmacological inhibition reverses aortopathy in Marfan syndrome mice, as targets for therapeutic intervention in thoracic aortic aneurysm and are candidates for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Toral
- Gene Regulation in Cardiovascular Remodeling and Inflammation Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea de la Fuente-Alonso
- Gene Regulation in Cardiovascular Remodeling and Inflammation Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel R Campanero
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Redondo
- Gene Regulation in Cardiovascular Remodeling and Inflammation Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
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Deleeuw V, De Clercq A, De Backer J, Sips P. An Overview of Investigational and Experimental Drug Treatment Strategies for Marfan Syndrome. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:755-779. [PMID: 34408505 PMCID: PMC8366784 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s265271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the gene coding for the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin-1. While the disease affects multiple organ systems, the most life-threatening manifestations are aortic aneurysms leading to dissection and rupture. Other cardiovascular complications, including mitral valve prolapse, primary cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia, also occur more frequently in patients with MFS. The standard medical care relies on cardiovascular imaging at regular intervals, along with pharmacological treatment with β-adrenergic receptor blockers aimed at reducing the aortic growth rate. When aortic dilatation reaches a threshold associated with increased risk of dissection, prophylactic surgical aortic replacement is performed. Although current clinical management has significantly improved the life expectancy of patients with MFS, no cure is available and fatal complications still occur, underscoring the need for new treatment options. In recent years, preclinical studies have identified a number of potentially promising therapeutic targets. Nevertheless, the translation of these results into clinical practice has remained challenging. In this review, we present an overview of the currently available knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiological processes associated with MFS cardiovascular pathology. We then summarize the treatment options that have been developed based on this knowledge and are currently in different stages of preclinical or clinical development, provide a critical review of the limitations of current studies and highlight potential opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violette Deleeuw
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Adelbert De Clercq
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Julie De Backer
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium.,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Patrick Sips
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Sellers SL, Milad N, Chan R, Mielnik M, Jermilova U, Huang PL, de Crom R, Hirota JA, Hogg JC, Sandor GG, Van Breemen C, Esfandiarei M, Seidman MA, Bernatchez P. Inhibition of Marfan Syndrome Aortic Root Dilation by Losartan: Role of Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1-Independent Activation of Endothelial Function. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 188:574-585. [PMID: 29433732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a genetic disorder that frequently leads to aortic root dissection and aneurysm. Despite promising preclinical and pilot clinical data, a recent large-scale study using antihypertensive angiotensin II (AngII) receptor type 1 (ATR1) blocker losartan has failed to meet expectations at preventing MFS-associated aortic root dilation, casting doubts about optimal therapy. To study the deleterious role of normal ATR1 signaling in aortic root widening, we generated MFS mice lacking ATR1a expression in an attempt to preserve protective ATR2 signaling. Despite being hypotensive and resistant to AngII vasopressor effects, MFS/ATR1a-null mice showed unabated aortic root enlargement and remained fully responsive to losartan, confirming that blood pressure lowering is of minor therapeutic value in MFS and that losartan's antiremodeling properties may be ATR1 independent. Having shown that MFS causes endothelial dysfunction and that losartan can activate endothelial function in mice and patients, we found that nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition renders losartan therapeutically inactive, whereas multiple transgenic and pharmacologic models of endothelial NOS activation block aortic root dilation by correcting extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling. In vitro, losartan can increase endothelial NO release in the absence of AngII and correct MFS NO levels in vivo. Our data suggest that increased protective endothelial function, rather than ATR1 inhibition or blood pressure lowering, might be of therapeutic significance in preventing aortic root disease in MFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Sellers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nadia Milad
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rayleigh Chan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Mielnik
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Una Jermilova
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul L Huang
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Charlestown, Massachusetts
| | - Rini de Crom
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeremy A Hirota
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, Chan-Yeung Centre for Occupational and Environmental Respiratory Disease, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James C Hogg
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - George G Sandor
- Providence Health Care, and the Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Casey Van Breemen
- Providence Health Care, and the Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mitra Esfandiarei
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona
| | - Michael A Seidman
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pascal Bernatchez
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and St. Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Abstract
A bicuspid aortic valve and/or coarctation of the aorta (COA) are often associated with dilatation of the ascending aorta and para-coarctation. Congenital heart diseases (CHD), such as truncus arteriosus, transposition of the great arteries (TGA), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), single ventricle with pulmonary stenosis/atresia and the Fontan procedure, are also associated with aortic root dilatation, aneurysm and rarely, dissection, which can be fatal and require aortic valve and root surgery. A significant subset of adults with complex CHD exhibit progressive dilatation of the aortic root even after repair due to aortic medial degeneration. Medial degeneration in the ascending aorta is prevalent among the above CHD. In Marfan syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve and COA, medial degeneration is more extensive and severe than in another complex CHD. Accordingly, the incidence of ascending aortic dilatation, dissection and rupture is higher in the former. This aortic medial degeneration in CHD may either be intrinsic or secondary to the increased volume overload of the aortic root due to right-to-left shunting, or a combination of both. The association of aortic pathophysiological abnormalities, aortic dilatation and aorto-ventricular interaction is clinically referred to as "aortopathy". The major purpose of medical treatment for aortopathy is to reduce the structural changes within the aortic wall and slow down the progression of aortic dilatation to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Several medications have been studied, including β-blockers, angiotensin II type I (AT1) receptor blockers (ARBs) and Ca-antagonists. However, the results, except for Marfan syndrome, are limited. In aortopathy, concomitant aortic valve and aortic root repair/replacement is required. The Bentall operation comprises root replacement with an aortic tube graft and mechanical valve, and has been widely applied. On the other hand, valve-sparing operations have been developed in order to preserve the aortic valve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichiro Niwa
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Center, St Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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8
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Marfan syndrome is a hereditary disorder affecting the connective tissue and is caused by a mutation of the fibrillin-1 (FBN1) gene. It affects multiple systems of the body, most notably the cardiovascular, ocular, skeletal, dural and pulmonary systems. Aortic root dilatation is the most frequent cardiovascular manifestation and its complications, including aortic regurgitation, dissection and rupture are the main cause of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVES To assess the long-term efficacy and safety of beta-blocker therapy as compared to placebo, no treatment or surveillance only in people with Marfan syndrome. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases on 28 June 2017; CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, Science Citation Index Expanded and the Conference Proceeding Citation Index - Science in the Web of Science Core Collection. We also searched the Online Metabolic and Molecular Bases of Inherited Disease (OMMBID), ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) on 30 June 2017. We did not impose any restriction on language of publication. SELECTION CRITERIA All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least one year in duration assessing the effects of beta-blocker monotherapy compared with placebo, no treatment or surveillance only, in people of all ages with a confirmed diagnosis of Marfan syndrome were eligible for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts for inclusion, extracted data and assessed trial quality. Trial authors were contacted to obtain missing data. Dichotomous outcomes will be reported as relative risk and continuous outcomes as mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. We assessed the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. MAIN RESULTS One open-label, randomised, single-centre trial including 70 participants with Marfan syndrome (aged 12 to 50 years old) met the inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly assigned to propranolol (N = 32) or no treatment (N = 38) for an average duration of 9.3 years in the control group and 10.7 years in the treatment group. The initial dose of propranolol was 10 mg four times daily and the optimal dose was reached when the heart rate remained below 100 beats per minute during exercise or the systolic time interval increased by 30%. The mean (± standard error (SE)) optimal dose of propranolol was 212 ± 68 mg given in four divided doses daily.Beta-blocker therapy did not reduce the incidence of all-cause mortality (RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.75; participants = 70; low-quality evidence). Mortality attributed to Marfan syndrome was not reported. Non-fatal serious adverse events were also not reported. However, study authors report on pre-defined, non-fatal clinical endpoints, which include aortic dissection, aortic regurgitation, cardiovascular surgery and congestive heart failure. Their analysis showed no difference between the treatment and control groups in these outcomes (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.69; participants = 70; low-quality evidence).Beta-blocker therapy did not reduce the incidence of aortic dissection (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.12 to 3.03), aortic regurgitation (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.18 to 7.96), congestive heart failure (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.18 to 7.96) or cardiovascular surgery, (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.12 to 3.03); participants = 70; low-quality evidence.The study reports a reduced rate of aortic dilatation measured by M-mode echocardiography in the treatment group (aortic ratio mean slope: 0.084 (control) vs 0.023 (treatment), P < 0.001). The change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total adverse events and withdrawal due to adverse events were not reported in the treatment or control group at study end point.We judged this study to be at high risk of selection (allocation concealment) bias, performance bias, detection bias, attrition bias and selective reporting bias. The overall quality of evidence was low. We do not know whether a statistically significant reduced rate of aortic dilatation translates into clinical benefit in terms of aortic dissection or mortality. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Based on only one, low-quality RCT comparing long-term propranolol to no treatment in people with Marfan syndrome, we could draw no definitive conclusions for clinical practice. High-quality, randomised trials are needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of beta-blocker treatment in people with Marfan syndrome. Future trials should report on all clinically relevant end points and adverse events to evaluate benefit versus harm of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun‐Kyoung Koo
- University of British Columbia217‐2176 Health Sciences MallVancouverBCCanadaV6T 1Z3
| | | | - Vijaya M Musini
- University of British ColumbiaDepartment of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics2176 Health Science MallVancouverBCCanadaV6T 1Z3
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9
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Kim SY, Wolfe DS, Taub CC. Cardiovascular outcomes of pregnancy in Marfan's syndrome patients: A literature review. CONGENIT HEART DIS 2017; 13:203-209. [DOI: 10.1111/chd.12546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- So Yeon Kim
- Tufts Medical Center; Boston Massachusetts, USA
- Montefiore Medical Center; Bronx New York, USA
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10
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Sartor L, Forteza A. Strategies to prevent aortic complications in Marfan syndrome. J Thorac Dis 2017; 9:S434-S438. [PMID: 28616337 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2017.04.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucio Sartor
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hospital Universitario Quirónsalud Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Forteza
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hospital Universitario Quirónsalud Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Marfan Unit, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Gibson C, Nielsen C, Alex R, Cooper K, Farney M, Gaufin D, Cui JZ, van Breemen C, Broderick TL, Vallejo-Elias J, Esfandiarei M. Mild aerobic exercise blocks elastin fiber fragmentation and aortic dilatation in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome associated aortic aneurysm. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2017; 123:147-160. [PMID: 28385916 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00132.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Regular low-impact physical activity is generally allowed in patients with Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder caused by heterozygous mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene. However, being above average in height encourages young adults with this syndrome to engage in high-intensity contact sports, which unfortunately increases the risk for aortic aneurysm and rupture, the leading cause of death in Marfan syndrome. In this study, we investigated the effects of voluntary (cage-wheel) or forced (treadmill) aerobic exercise at different intensities on aortic function and structure in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome. Four-week-old Marfan and wild-type mice were subjected to voluntary and forced exercise regimens or sedentary lifestyle for 5 mo. Thoracic aortic tissue was isolated and subjected to structural and functional studies. Our data showed that exercise improved aortic wall structure and function in Marfan mice and that the beneficial effect was biphasic, with an optimum at low intensity exercise (55-65% V̇o2max) and tapering off at a higher intensity of exercise (85% V̇o2max). The mechanism underlying the reduced elastin fragmentation in Marfan mice involved reduction of the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 within the aortic wall. These findings present the first evidence of potential beneficial effects of mild exercise on the structural integrity of the aortic wall in Marfan syndrome associated aneurysm. Our finding that moderate, but not strenuous, exercise protects aortic structure and function in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome could have important implications for the medical care of young Marfan patients.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study provides conclusive scientific evidence that daily exercise can improve aortic health in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome associated aortic aneurysm, and it establishes the threshold for the exercise intensity beyond which exercise may not be as protective. These findings establish a platform for a new focus on promoting regular exercise in Marfan patients at an optimum intensity and create a paradigm shift in clinical care of Marfan patients suffering from aortic aneurysm complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cory Nielsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
| | - Ramona Alex
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
| | - Kimbal Cooper
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
| | - Michael Farney
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
| | - Douglas Gaufin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences
| | - Jason Z Cui
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cornelis van Breemen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tom L Broderick
- Department of Physiology, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona; and
| | - Johana Vallejo-Elias
- Department of Physiology, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona; and
| | - Mitra Esfandiarei
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences; .,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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12
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Singh MN, Lacro RV. Recent Clinical Drug Trials Evidence in Marfan Syndrome and Clinical Implications. Can J Cardiol 2015; 32:66-77. [PMID: 26724512 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder of connective tissue with principal manifestations in the cardiovascular, ocular, and skeletal systems. Cardiovascular disease, mainly progressive aortic root dilation and aortic dissection, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The primary aims of this report were to examine the evidence related to medical therapy for Marfan syndrome, including recently completed randomized clinical trials on the efficacy of β-blockers and angiotensin II receptor blockers for the prophylactic treatment of aortic enlargement in Marfan syndrome, and to provide recommendations for medical therapy on the basis of available evidence. Medical therapy for Marfan syndrome should be individualized according to patient tolerance and risk factors such as age, aortic size, and family history of aortic dissection. The Pediatric Heart Network trial showed that atenolol and losartan each reduced the rate of aortic dilation. All patients with known or suspected Marfan syndrome and aortic root dilation should receive medical therapy with adequate doses of either β-blocker or angiotensin receptor blocker. The Pediatric Heart Network trial also showed that atenolol and losartan are more effective at reduction of aortic root z score in younger subjects, which suggests that medical therapy should be prescribed even in the youngest children with aortic dilation. For patients with Marfan syndrome without aortic dilation, the available evidence is less clear. If aortic dilation is severe and/or progressive, therapy with a combination of β-blocker and angiotensin receptor blocker should be considered, although trial results are mixed with respect to the efficacy of combination therapy vs monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Singh
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ronald V Lacro
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Children with Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: Challenges in Diagnosis and Therapy. J Pediatr 2015; 167:14-6. [PMID: 25921440 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2015.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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14
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von Kodolitsch Y, De Backer J, Schüler H, Bannas P, Behzadi C, Bernhardt AM, Hillebrand M, Fuisting B, Sheikhzadeh S, Rybczynski M, Kölbel T, Püschel K, Blankenberg S, Robinson PN. Perspectives on the revised Ghent criteria for the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2015; 8:137-55. [PMID: 26124674 PMCID: PMC4476478 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s60472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Three international nosologies have been proposed for the diagnosis of Marfan syndrome (MFS): the Berlin nosology in 1988; the Ghent nosology in 1996 (Ghent-1); and the revised Ghent nosology in 2010 (Ghent-2). We reviewed the literature and discussed the challenges and concepts of diagnosing MFS in adults. Ghent-1 proposed more stringent clinical criteria, which led to the confirmation of MFS in only 32%–53% of patients formerly diagnosed with MFS according to the Berlin nosology. Conversely, both the Ghent-1 and Ghent-2 nosologies diagnosed MFS, and both yielded similar frequencies of MFS in persons with a causative FBN1 mutation (90% for Ghent-1 versus 92% for Ghent-2) and in persons not having a causative FBN1 mutation (15% versus 13%). Quality criteria for diagnostic methods include objectivity, reliability, and validity. However, the nosology-based diagnosis of MFS lacks a diagnostic reference standard and, hence, quality criteria such as sensitivity, specificity, or accuracy cannot be assessed. Medical utility of diagnosis implies congruency with the historical criteria of MFS, as well as with information about the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic triggers, prognostic triggers, and potential complications of MFS. In addition, social and psychological utilities of diagnostic criteria include acceptance by patients, patient organizations, clinicians and scientists, practicability, costs, and the reduction of anxiety. Since the utility of a diagnosis or exclusion of MFS is context-dependent, prioritization of utilities is a strategic decision in the process of nosology development. Screening tests for MFS should be used to identify persons with MFS. To confirm the diagnosis of MFS, Ghent-1 and Ghent-2 perform similarly, but Ghent-2 is easier to use. To maximize the utility of the diagnostic criteria of MFS, a fair and transparent process of nosology development is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie De Backer
- Centre for Medical Genetics, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Helke Schüler
- Centre of Cardiology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Bannas
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department and Clinic, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cyrus Behzadi
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department and Clinic, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Bettina Fuisting
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sara Sheikhzadeh
- Centre of Cardiology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Meike Rybczynski
- Centre of Cardiology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tilo Kölbel
- Centre of Cardiology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Peter N Robinson
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Human Genetics, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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15
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What is the optimal medical therapy for Marfan syndrome? J Pediatr 2014; 165:889-90. [PMID: 25217843 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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