1
|
More T, Raghavendra PR, Nair S, Haribalakrishna A. A Neonate with Epileptic Encephalopathy. Neoreviews 2024; 25:e511-e514. [PMID: 39085176 DOI: 10.1542/neo.25-8-e511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Trusha More
- Department of Neonatology, Seth G.S. Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | | | - Sruthi Nair
- Department of Neonatology, Seth G.S. Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Anitha Haribalakrishna
- Department of Neonatology, Seth G.S. Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Abreo TJ, Thompson EC, Madabushi A, Soh H, Varghese N, Vanoye CG, Springer K, Park KL, Johnson J, Sims S, Ji Z, Chavez AG, Jankovic MJ, Habte B, Zuberi AR, Lutz C, Wang Z, Krishnan V, Dudler L, Einsele-Scholz S, Noebels JL, George AL, Maheshwari A, Tzingounis AV, Cooper EC. Plural molecular and cellular mechanisms of pore domain KCNQ2 encephalopathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.04.574177. [PMID: 38260608 PMCID: PMC10802467 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.04.574177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
KCNQ2 variants in children with neurodevelopmental impairment are difficult to assess due to their heterogeneity and unclear pathogenic mechanisms. We describe a child with neonatal-onset epilepsy, developmental impairment of intermediate severity, and KCNQ2 G256W heterozygosity. Analyzing prior KCNQ2 channel cryoelectron microscopy models revealed G256 as a node of an arch-shaped non-covalent bond network linking S5, the pore turret, and the ion path. Co-expression with G256W dominantly suppressed conduction by wild-type subunits in heterologous cells. Ezogabine partly reversed this suppression. G256W/+ mice have epilepsy leading to premature deaths. Hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells from G256W/+ brain slices showed hyperexcitability. G256W/+ pyramidal cell KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 immunolabeling was significantly shifted from axon initial segments to neuronal somata. Despite normal mRNA levels, G256W/+ mouse KCNQ2 protein levels were reduced by about 50%. Our findings indicate that G256W pathogenicity results from multiplicative effects, including reductions in intrinsic conduction, subcellular targeting, and protein stability. These studies provide evidence for an unexpected and novel role for the KCNQ2 pore turret and introduce a valid animal model of KCNQ2 encephalopathy. Our results, spanning structure to behavior, may be broadly applicable because the majority of KCNQ2 encephalopathy patients share variants near the selectivity filter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J. Abreo
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emma C. Thompson
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anuraag Madabushi
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heun Soh
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Nissi Varghese
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Carlos G. Vanoye
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kristen Springer
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Kristen L. Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Childrens Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Neurology, Childrens Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | | | - Zhigang Ji
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ana G. Chavez
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Bereket Habte
- Department of Pediatrics, Childrens Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Neurology, Childrens Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Aamir R. Zuberi
- The Rare Disease Translational Center & Technology Evaluation and Development, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, USA
| | - Cathleen Lutz
- The Rare Disease Translational Center & Technology Evaluation and Development, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME, USA
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- CryoEM Core, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vaishnav Krishnan
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lisa Dudler
- Center for Human Genetics Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Jeffrey L. Noebels
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alfred L. George
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Atul Maheshwari
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Edward C. Cooper
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zaker E, Nouri N, Movahedinia M, Dadbinpour A, Vahidi Mehrjardi MY. Type 1 early infantile epileptic encephalopathy: A case report and literature review. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2024; 12:e2412. [PMID: 38400608 PMCID: PMC10891437 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2412] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variants in the Aristaless-related homeobox (ARX) gene lead to a variety of phenotypes, with intellectual disability being a steady feature. Other features can include severe epilepsy, spasticity, movement disorders, hydranencephaly, and ambiguous genitalia in males. X-linked Ohtahara syndrome or Type 1 early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE1) is a severe early-onset epileptic encephalopathy with arrested psychomotor development caused by hemizygous mutations in the ARX gene, which encodes a transcription factor in fundamental brain developmental processes. METHODS We presented a case report of a 2-year-old boy who exhibited symptoms such as microcephaly, seizures, and severe multifocal epileptic abnormalities, and genetic techniques such as autozygosity mapping, Sanger sequencing, and whole-exome sequencing. RESULTS We confirmed that the patient had the NM_139058.3:c.84C>A; p.(Cys28Ter) mutation in the ARX gene. CONCLUSION The patient with EIEE1 had physical symptoms and hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalogram. Genetic testing identified a causative mutation in the ARX gene, emphasizing the role of genetic testing in EIEE diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Zaker
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of MedicineShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | - Negar Nouri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of MedicineShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | - Mojtaba Movahedinia
- Department of Children Growth Disorder Research CenterShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | - Ali Dadbinpour
- Department of Medical GeneticsSchool of MedicineShahid Sadoughi University of Medical SciencesYazdIran
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mithani K, Breitbart S, Fasano A, Gorodetsky C, Ibrahim GM. Deep brain stimulation for status dystonicus in a toddler with SCN2A-related disorder. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:3033-3035. [PMID: 37642686 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06136-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Mithani
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Sara Breitbart
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alfonso Fasano
- Division of Neurology, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - George M Ibrahim
- Division of Neurosurgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Almohammal MN. Epileptic Channelopathies and Neuromuscular Disorders in Newborns: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e43728. [PMID: 37727158 PMCID: PMC10505738 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Neonates can have ion channel abnormalities known as channelopathies, which can impact any organ system. These abnormalities cause seizures, which can result in developmental delays and lead to early death. For a child's long-term neurodevelopment, early identification as a channelopathy is essential to avoid any brain damage. Therefore, this review aims to focus on early diagnostic criteria. Since it might be difficult for doctors to interpret the presenting symptoms of channelopathies, a thorough diagnostic examination that follows a methodical step-by-step procedure is essential. Skeletal muscle fiber and neuron excitability depend on voltage-gated sodium channels. It is now known that mutations in voltage-gated sodium channel genes can cause a growing variety of fatal or debilitating pediatric neurological diseases. Episodic paralysis, myotonia, newborn hypotonia, respiratory impairment, laryngospasm/stridor, congenital myasthenia, and myopathy are examples of muscle phenotypes. There may be a connection between sodium channel malfunction and abrupt infant death, according to recent findings. Numerous epilepsy syndromes and complex encephalopathies are among the manifestations of different channelopathies that are becoming more widely recognized.
Collapse
|
6
|
Tofilo M, Voronova N, Nigmatullina L, Kuznetsova E, Timonina V, Efimenko B, Turgunkhujaev O, Avdeichik S, Ansar M, Popadin K, Kirillova A, Mazunin I. Live Birth of a Healthy Child in a Couple with Identical mtDNA Carrying a Pathogenic c.471_477delTTTAAAAinsG Variant in the MOCS2 Gene. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030720. [PMID: 36980992 PMCID: PMC10048300 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030720] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency type B (MOCODB; #252160) is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder that has only been described in 37 affected patients. In this report, we describe the presence of an in-frame homozygous variant (c.471_477delTTTAAAAinsG) in the MOCS2 gene in an affected child, diagnosed with Ohtahara syndrome according to the clinical manifestations. The analysis of the three-dimensional structure of the protein and the amino acid substitutions suggested the pathogenicity of this mutation. To prevent transmitting this mutation to the next generation, we used preimplantation genetic testing for the monogenic disorders (PGT-M) protocol to select MOCS2 gene mutant-free embryos for transfer in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) program. As a result, a healthy child was born. Interestingly, both parents of the proband shared an identical mitochondrial (mt) DNA control region, assuming their close relationship and thus suggesting that both copies of the nuclear rare variant c.471_477delTTTAAAAinsG may have been transmitted from the same female ancestor. Our estimation of the a priori probability of meeting individuals with the same mtDNA haplotype confirms the assumption of a possible distant maternal relationship among the proband’s direct relatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tofilo
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Moscow, Russia
- Medical Genomics, 170100 Tver, Russia
| | - Natalia Voronova
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Moscow, Russia
| | - Leila Nigmatullina
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Moscow, Russia
- Medical Genomics, 170100 Tver, Russia
- Fomin Clinics, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Valeria Timonina
- School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bogdan Efimenko
- Center for Mitochondrial Functional Genomics, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236041 Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Oybek Turgunkhujaev
- Neurology Department, Semeynaya Clinic, 121059 Moscow, Russia
- A.I. Burnazyan Federal Medical and Biophysical Center, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana Avdeichik
- Medical Genomics, 170100 Tver, Russia
- Fomin Clinics, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Muhammad Ansar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile Des Aveugles, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Advanced Molecular Genetics and Genomics Disease Research and Treatment Centre, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
| | - Konstantin Popadin
- School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Mitochondrial Functional Genomics, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236041 Kaliningrad, Russia
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anastasia Kirillova
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Moscow, Russia
- Fomin Clinics, 119192 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (A.K.); (I.M.)
| | - Ilya Mazunin
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: (A.K.); (I.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Perinelli MG, Riva A, Amadori E, Follo R, Striano P. Learnings in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies: what do we know? Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:45-57. [PMID: 36726225 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2176221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs) encompass a group of neurological disorders caused by either abnormal neuronal development and white matter maturation or even by weak synaptic plasticity. Hitherto, patients commonly have epileptic seizures featuring cognitive dysfunction, such as neurosensory disorders, difficulties in learning, behavioral disturbances, or speech delay. AREAS COVERED This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current knowledge of DEEs and cognition. Medline/Pubmed database was screened for in-English articles published between 1967-2022 dealing with the topic of DEEs and cognitive development. Two authors independently screened the title and abstract of each record and reviewed the selected articles. Reviews, randomized clinical trials, and case reports were selected. EXPERT OPINION Scientific literature has never explicitly dealt with the early neuro-psychomotor rehabilitation and neuropsychological assessment of patients with DEEs. Targeted intervention and environmental stimuli can influence the maturation of neuronal circuits and shape changes in physical and mental development based on neuronal plasticity, particularly if applied in 'critical periods' liable to heightened sensitivity. Thus, 'early neurorehabilitation interventions' are worthy of being more and more applied to clinical practice to improve the quality of life and reduce the psychosocial burden on families and caregivers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Giorgia Perinelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Amadori
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim EH, Shin J, Lee BK. Neonatal seizures: diagnostic updates based on new definition and classification. Clin Exp Pediatr 2022; 65:387-397. [PMID: 35381171 PMCID: PMC9348949 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2021.01361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are the most common neurological symptoms caused by various etiologies in the neonatal period, but their diagnosis and treatment are challenging because their pathophysiology and electroclinical manifestations differ from those of patients in older age groups. Many seizures present as electrographic-only events without clinical signs or as obscure clinical manifestations that are difficult to distinguish from other neonatal behaviors. Accordingly, a new definition and classification of neonatal seizures was recently proposed by the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force on neonatal seizures, highlighting the role of electroencephalography in diagnosing and treating neonatal seizures. Neonatal seizures are defined as electrographic events with sudden, paroxysmal, and abnormal alteration of activity and divided into electroclinical seizures and electrographic-only seizures according to their clinical signs, thus excluding clinical events without an electrographic correlation. Seizure types are described by their predominant clinical features and divided into motor (automatisms, clonic, epileptic spasms, myoclonic, tonic, and sequential), nonmotor (autonomic and behavioral arrest), and unclassified. Although many neonatal seizures are acute reactive events caused by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy or vascular insults, structural, genetic, or metabolic etiologies of neonatal-onset epilepsy should also be thoroughly evaluated to determine their appropriate management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Hee Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Sejong, Korea
| | - Jeongmin Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Sejong, Korea
| | - Byoung Kook Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Sejong, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Burns W, Chaudhari BP, Haffner DN. Neurogenetic and Metabolic Mimics of Common Neonatal Neurological Disorders. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 42:100972. [PMID: 35868729 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurogenetic and metabolic diseases often present in the neonatal period, masquerading as other disorders, most commonly as neonatal encephalopathy and seizures. Advancements in our understanding of inborn errors of metabolism are leading to an increasing number of therapeutic options. Many of these treatments can improve long-term neurodevelopment and seizure control. However, the treatments are frequently condition-specific. A high index of suspicion is required for prompt identification and treatment. When suspected, simultaneous metabolic and molecular testing are recommended along with concurrent treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Burns
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH.
| | - Bimal P Chaudhari
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH; Division of Neonatology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH; Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Darrah N Haffner
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH; Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pańczyk‐Straszak K, Rapacz A, Marona H, Żelaszczyk D, Karczewska E, Zając M, Skiba‐Kurek I, Siwek A, Waszkielewicz A. Design, Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of New Phenoxyalkyl, Phenoxyethoxyethyl and Phenoxyacetyl Derivatives of Aminoalkanols. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202201233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Pańczyk‐Straszak
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Chair of Organic Chemistry Department of Bioorganic Chemistry Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Anna Rapacz
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Department of Pharmacodynamics Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Henryk Marona
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Chair of Organic Chemistry Department of Bioorganic Chemistry Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Dorota Żelaszczyk
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Chair of Organic Chemistry Department of Bioorganic Chemistry Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Elżbieta Karczewska
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Martyna Zając
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Iwona Skiba‐Kurek
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Agata Siwek
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Department of Pharmacobiology Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| | - Anna Waszkielewicz
- Jagiellonian University Medical College Faculty of Pharmacy Chair of Organic Chemistry Department of Bioorganic Chemistry Medyczna 9 30-688 Kraków Poland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moog M, Baraban SC. Clemizole and Trazodone are Effective Antiseizure Treatments in a Zebrafish Model of STXBP1 Disorder. Epilepsia Open 2022; 7:504-511. [PMID: 35451230 PMCID: PMC9436285 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9-generated zebrafish carrying a 12 base-pair deletion in stxbpb1b, a paralog sharing 79% amino acid sequence identity with human, exhibit spontaneous electrographic seizures during larval stages of development. Zebrafish stxbp1b mutants provide an efficient preclinical platform to test antiseizure therapeutics. The present study was designed to test antiseizure medications approved for clinical use and two recently identified repurposed drugs with antiseizure activity. Larval homozygous stxbp1b zebrafish (4 days post-fertilization) were agarose-embedded and monitored for electrographic seizure activity using a local field recording electrode placed in midbrain. Frequency of ictal-like events was evaluated at baseline and following 45 min of continuous drug exposure (1 mM, bath application). Analysis was performed on coded files by an experimenter blinded to drug treatment and genotype. Phenytoin, valproate, ethosuximide, levetiracetam, and diazepam had no effect on ictal-like event frequency in stxbp1b mutant zebrafish. Clemizole and trazodone decreased ictal-like event frequency in stxbp1b mutant zebrafish by 80% and 83%, respectively. These results suggest that repurposed drugs with serotonin receptor binding affinities could be effective antiseizure treatments. Clemizole and trazodone were previously identified in a larval zebrafish model for Dravet syndrome. Based primarily on these preclinical zebrafish studies, compassionate-use and double-blind clinical trials with both drugs have progressed. The present study extends this approach to a preclinical zebrafish model representing STXBP1-related disorders, and suggests that future clinical studies may be warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maia Moog
- Department of Neurological Surgery & Weill Institute for NeuroscienceUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Scott C. Baraban
- Department of Neurological Surgery & Weill Institute for NeuroscienceUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience InstituteUniversity of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jiao X, Gong P, Niu Y, Zhang Y, Yang Z. A Rare Presentation Characterized by Epileptic Spasms in ALDH7A1, Pyridox(am)ine-5′-Phosphate Oxidase, and PLPBP Deficiency. Front Genet 2022; 13:804461. [PMID: 35495162 PMCID: PMC9039010 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.804461] [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: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To analyze the clinical feature, treatment, and prognosis of epileptic spasms (ES) in vitamin B6–dependent epilepsy, including patients with pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy (PDE) caused by ALDH7A1 mutation, pyridox(am)ine-5′-phosphate oxidase (PNPO) deficiency, and PLPBP deficiency. Methods: We analyzed data from a cohort of 54 cases with PDE, 13 cases with PNPO deficiency, and 2 cases with PLPBP deficiency and looked for the presentation of ES among them. Results: A total of 11 patients with the seizure presentation of ES have been collected. Among them, four patients carried mutations in ALDH7A1, six carried mutations in PNPO, and the remaining one carried mutation in PLPBP. The analysis of this cohort identified nine cases presenting as infantile spasms distributed in the three diseases and two cases presenting as Ohtahara syndrome diagnosed with PDE and PNPO deficiency, respectively. In the PDE and PLPBP deficiency groups, seizures were controlled by pyridoxine monotherapy, and the remaining one had refractory seizures due to secondary brain atrophy. In the groups with PNPO deficiency, one patient showed seizure-free when treated by PLP combined with valproic acid, three still had infrequent seizures treated by PLP monotherapy or pyridoxine or PLP combined with other antiseizure medications, and two died. In two cases presenting as Ohtahara syndrome, after regular treatment, one showed seizure-free, the others showed a marked decrease in seizure frequency, and they both showed an improvement in EEG. Significance: ES might be a common form of seizures in PNPO deficiency, and EEG presented as hypsarrhythmia or a burst suppression pattern. It is difficult for pyridoxine to control frequent seizures caused by secondary brain injury. In our PNPO deficiency cohort, patients with infantile spasms did not respond better to PLP than pyridoxine. Timely and correct treatment could prevent the transformation of the child’s disease from Ohtahara syndrome and infantile spasms to subsequent epileptic encephalopathy or refractory epilepsy.
Collapse
|
13
|
Long-term course of early onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy associated with 2q24.3 microduplication. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2022; 19:100547. [PMID: 35733834 PMCID: PMC9207545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2022.100547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
2q24.3 is a region containing a cluster of genes for multiple voltage-gated sodium channels and CNVs in the region cause developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. DEE associated with 2q24.3 duplication have been reported to show early-onset epilepsy, resistant to antiseizure drugs, and severe developmental delay. Drug-resistant epilepsy due to 2q24.3 duplication can be seizure free after infancy. Our case was considered pyridoxine dependent but identifying duplication of 2q24.3 led to the discontinuation of unnecessary medication.
Copy number variations (CNVs) have been related to developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). The 2q24.3 region includes a cluster of genes for voltage-gated sodium channels (SCN) and CNVs in this region cause DEE. However, the long-term course of DEE with a 2q24.3 duplication has not been described. A 20-year-old female developed epileptic encephalopathy in early infancy that was resistant to various antiseizure medications. Her seizures disappeared after starting vitamin B6 therapy. Therefore, her epilepsy was considered pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy. At 16 years old, whole exome sequencing revealed a 2q24.3 microduplication including SCN1A, SCN2A, SCN3A, SCN7A, and SCN9A. Quantitative PCR detected an increased copy number of 1.3 Mb on 2q24.3 involving these genes, but no gene mutation accounting for pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy. Considering that with this duplication she was reported to be seizure-free after infancy, she was able to be off antiseizure medications including vitamin B6. Our case involvingdrug-resistant epilepsy in early infancy had no recurrent seizures during long-term follow up. Detecting CNVs using whole exome sequencing data was useful to identify a 2q24.3 duplication unassociated with pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy, leading to cessation of unnecessary medications.
Collapse
|
14
|
Lee IC. Approach to Neurological Channelopathies and Neurometabolic Disorders in Newborns. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1244. [PMID: 34833120 PMCID: PMC8619185 DOI: 10.3390/life11111244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ion channel disorders (channelopathies) can affect any organ system in newborns before 2 months of life, including the skeletal muscle and central nervous system. Channelopathies in newborns can manifest as seizure disorders, which is a critical issue as early onset seizures can mimic the presentation of neurometabolic disorders. Seizures in channelopathies can either be focal or generalized, and range in severity from benign to epileptic encephalopathies that may lead to developmental regression and eventually premature death. The presenting symptoms of channelopathies are challenging for clinicians to decipher, such that an extensive diagnostic survey through a precise step-by-step process is vital. Early diagnosis of a newborn's disease, either as a channelopathy or neurometabolic disorder, is important for the long-term neurodevelopment of the child.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inn-Chi Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sandoval Karamian AG, Wusthoff CJ. Current and Future Uses of Continuous EEG in the NICU. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:768670. [PMID: 34805053 PMCID: PMC8595393 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.768670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Continuous EEG (cEEG) is a fundamental neurodiagnostic tool in the care of critically ill neonates and is increasingly recommended. cEEG enhances prognostication via assessment of the background brain activity, plays a role in predicting which neonates are at risk for seizures when combined with clinical factors, and allows for accurate diagnosis and management of neonatal seizures. Continuous EEG is the gold standard method for diagnosis of neonatal seizures and should be used for detection of seizures in high-risk clinical conditions, differential diagnosis of paroxysmal events, and assessment of response to treatment. High costs associated with cEEG are a limiting factor in its widespread implementation. Centralized remote cEEG interpretation, automated seizure detection, and pre-natal EEG are potential future applications of this neurodiagnostic tool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Courtney J. Wusthoff
- Division of Child Neurology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The relationship between the characteristics of burst suppression pattern and different etiologies in epilepsy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15903. [PMID: 34354098 PMCID: PMC8342459 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95040-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
To analyze the relationship between the characteristics of burst suppression (BS) pattern and different etiologies in epilepsy. Patients with a BS pattern who were younger than 6 months old were screened from our electroencephalogram (EEG) database. The synchronized and symmetric BS patterns under different etiologies in epilepsy were analyzed. A total of 32 patients had a BS pattern on EEG. The etiologies included genetic disorders (37.5%), cortical malformations (28.1%), inborn errors of metabolism (12.5%), and unknown (21.9%). Twenty-five patients were diagnosed with Ohtahara syndrome, one as early myoclonic encephalopathy, and one as epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizure. Five cases could not be classified into any epileptic syndrome. Asynchronous BS pattern was identified in 18 cases, of which 13 (72%) patients had genetic and/or metabolic etiologies. Synchronous BS pattern was identified in 14 cases, of which 8 (57%) patients had structural etiologies. Twenty-three patients had symmetric BS patterns, of which 15 (65%) patients had genetic etiologies. Nine patients had asymmetric BS patterns, of which 8 (89%) patients had structural etiologies. Patients with genetic epilepsies tended to have asynchronous and symmetric BS patterns, whereas those with structural epilepsies were more likely to have synchronous and asymmetric BS patterns.
Collapse
|
17
|
Epilepsy Syndromes in the First Year of Life and Usefulness of Genetic Testing for Precision Therapy. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12071051. [PMID: 34356067 PMCID: PMC8307222 DOI: 10.3390/genes12071051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The high pace of gene discovery has resulted in thrilling advances in the field of epilepsy genetics. Clinical testing with comprehensive gene panels, exomes, or genomes are now increasingly available and have led to a significant higher diagnostic yield in early-onset epilepsies and enabled precision medicine approaches. These have been instrumental in providing insights into the pathophysiology of both early-onset benign and self-limited syndromes and devastating developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). Genetic heterogeneity is seen in many epilepsy syndromes such as West syndrome and epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures (EIMFS), indicating that two or more genetic loci produce the same or similar phenotypes. At the same time, some genes such as SCN2A can be associated with a wide range of epilepsy syndromes ranging from self-limited familial neonatal epilepsy at the mild end to Ohtahara syndrome, EIFMS, West syndrome, Lennox–Gastaut syndrome, or unclassifiable DEEs at the severe end of the spectrum. The aim of this study was to review the clinical and genetic heterogeneity associated with epilepsy syndromes starting in the first year of life including: Self-limited familial neonatal, neonatal-infantile or infantile epilepsies, genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus spectrum, myoclonic epilepsy in infancy, Ohtahara syndrome, early myoclonic encephalopathy, West syndrome, Dravet syndrome, EIMFS, and unclassifiable DEEs. We also elaborate on the advantages and pitfalls of genetic testing in such conditions. Finally, we describe how a genetic diagnosis can potentially enable precision therapy in monogenic epilepsies and emphasize that early genetic testing is a cornerstone for such therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
18
|
Jaskolka MC, Winkley SR, Kane PM. RAVE and Rabconnectin-3 Complexes as Signal Dependent Regulators of Organelle Acidification. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:698190. [PMID: 34249946 PMCID: PMC8264551 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.698190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The yeast RAVE (Regulator of H+-ATPase of Vacuolar and Endosomal membranes) complex and Rabconnectin-3 complexes of higher eukaryotes regulate acidification of organelles such as lysosomes and endosomes by catalyzing V-ATPase assembly. V-ATPases are highly conserved proton pumps consisting of a peripheral V1 subcomplex that contains the sites of ATP hydrolysis, attached to an integral membrane Vo subcomplex that forms the transmembrane proton pore. Reversible disassembly of the V-ATPase is a conserved regulatory mechanism that occurs in response to multiple signals, serving to tune ATPase activity and compartment acidification to changing extracellular conditions. Signals such as glucose deprivation can induce release of V1 from Vo, which inhibits both ATPase activity and proton transport. Reassembly of V1 with Vo restores ATP-driven proton transport, but requires assistance of the RAVE or Rabconnectin-3 complexes. Glucose deprivation triggers V-ATPase disassembly in yeast and is accompanied by binding of RAVE to V1 subcomplexes. Upon glucose readdition, RAVE catalyzes both recruitment of V1 to the vacuolar membrane and its reassembly with Vo. The RAVE complex can be recruited to the vacuolar membrane by glucose in the absence of V1 subunits, indicating that the interaction between RAVE and the Vo membrane domain is glucose-sensitive. Yeast RAVE complexes also distinguish between organelle-specific isoforms of the Vo a-subunit and thus regulate distinct V-ATPase subpopulations. Rabconnectin-3 complexes in higher eukaryotes appear to be functionally equivalent to yeast RAVE. Originally isolated as a two-subunit complex from rat brain, the Rabconnectin-3 complex has regions of homology with yeast RAVE and was shown to interact with V-ATPase subunits and promote endosomal acidification. Current understanding of the structure and function of RAVE and Rabconnectin-3 complexes, their interactions with the V-ATPase, their role in signal-dependent modulation of organelle acidification, and their impact on downstream pathways will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Jaskolka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Samuel R Winkley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Patricia M Kane
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thompson CH, Ben-Shalom R, Bender KJ, George AL. Alternative splicing potentiates dysfunction of early-onset epileptic encephalopathy SCN2A variants. J Gen Physiol 2021; 152:133672. [PMID: 31995133 PMCID: PMC7054859 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epileptic encephalopathies are severe forms of infantile-onset epilepsy often complicated by severe neurodevelopmental impairments. Some forms of early-onset epileptic encephalopathy (EOEE) have been associated with variants in SCN2A, which encodes the brain voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.2. Many voltage-gated sodium channel genes, including SCN2A, undergo developmentally regulated mRNA splicing. The early onset of these disorders suggests that developmentally regulated alternative splicing of NaV1.2 may be an important consideration when elucidating the pathophysiological consequences of epilepsy-associated variants. We hypothesized that EOEE-associated NaV1.2 variants would exhibit greater dysfunction in a splice isoform that is prominently expressed during early development. We engineered five EOEE-associated NaV1.2 variants (T236S, E999K, S1336Y, T1623N, and R1882Q) into the adult and neonatal splice isoforms of NaV1.2 and performed whole-cell voltage clamp to elucidate their functional properties. All variants exhibited functional defects that could enhance neuronal excitability. Three of the five variants (T236S, E999K, and S1336Y) exhibited greater dysfunction in the neonatal isoform compared with those observed in the adult isoform. Computational modeling of a developing cortical pyramidal neuron indicated that T236S, E999K, S1336Y, and R1882Q showed hyperexcitability preferentially in immature neurons. These results suggest that both splice isoform and neuronal developmental stage influence how EOEE-associated NaV1.2 variants affect neuronal excitability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Roy Ben-Shalom
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kevin J Bender
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Alfred L George
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Patanè F, Pasquetti E, Sullo F, Tosto M, Sciuto L, Garozzo MT, Praticò ER, Falsaperla R. SLC25A22 and Its Related Epileptic Encephalopathies. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1728685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractEpileptic encephalopathy is a condition in which seizures, electroencephalographic epileptiform abnormalities lead to a progressive deterioration of brain functions causing a significant psychomotor delay. One of the typical features of this heterogeneous and large group of severe disorders is the extremely early onset of seizures. The main causes of the epileptic encephalopathies include structural brain defects, inherited metabolic disorders; in this aspect, more than 100 genetic defects, including mutations in the solute carrier family 25 (SLC25A22) gene which encodes a mitochondrial glutamate carrier. To date, the main clinical phenotypes related to mutations of this gene are Ohtahara syndrome (or early infantile epileptic encephalopathy), early myoclonic encephalopathy and migrating partial seizures in infancy. In all the cases, prognosis is poor and no disease-modifying treatment is available in the present days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Patanè
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Elisa Pasquetti
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Sullo
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Monica Tosto
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura Sciuto
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Garozzo
- Unit of Pediatric and Pediatric Emergency, Hospital “Cannizzaro,” Catania, Italy
| | | | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Unit of Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency, University Hospital “Policlinico Rodolico-San Marco,” Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neonatal Intensive Care and Neonatology, University Hospital “Policlinico Rodolico-San Marco,” Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fontana A, Consentino MC, Motta M, Costanza G, Lo Bianco M, Marino S, Falsaperla R, Praticò AD. Syntaxin Binding Protein 1 Related Epilepsies. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1727259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSyntaxin binding protein 1 (STXBP1), commonly known as MUNC18–1, is a member of SEC1 family membrane trafficking proteins; their function consists in controlling the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors complex assembly, making them essentials regulators of vesicle fusion. The precise function and molecular mechanism through which Munc18–1 contributes to neurotransmitter releasing is not entirely understood, but several evidences suggest its probable role in exocytosis. In 2008, heterozygous de novo mutations in neuronal protein Munc18–1 were first referred as a cause of Ohtahara syndrome development. Currently, a wide examination of the published data proved that 3.1% of patients with severe epilepsy carry a pathogenic de novo mutation including STXBP1 and approximately 10.2% of early onset epileptic encephalopathy is due to an aberrant STXBP1 form codified by the mutated gene. STXBP1 mutations can be associated to a wide clinical heterogeneity. All affected individuals show developmental delay and approximately the 95% of cases have seizures and early onset epileptic encephalopathy, characterized by infantile spasms as the main consistent feature. Burst suppression pattern and hypsarrhythmia are the most frequent EEG anomalies. Other neuronal disorders include Rett syndrome and behavioral and movement disorders. Mild dysmorphic features have been detected in a small number of cases. No genotype–phenotype correlation has been reported. Management of STXBP1 encephalopathy requires a multidisciplinary approach, including epilepsy control and neurological rehabilitation. About 25% of patients are refractory to standard therapy. A single or combined antiepileptic drugs may be required. Several studies described vigabatrin, valproic acid, levetiracetam, topiramate, clobazam, and oxcarbazepine as effective in seizure control. Lamotrigine, zonisamide, and phenobarbital are also commonly used. To date, it remains unclear which therapy is the most effective. Severe morbidity and high mortality are inevitable consequences in some of these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Fontana
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Consentino
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Milena Motta
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Costanza
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Manuela Lo Bianco
- Pediatrics Postgraduate Residency Program, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Marino
- Unit of Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency, University Hospital “Policlinico Rodolico-San Marco,” Catania, Italy
| | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Unit of Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency, University Hospital “Policlinico Rodolico-San Marco,” Catania, Italy
- Unit of Neonatal Intensive Care and Neonatology, University Hospital “Policlinico Rodolico-San Marco,” Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea D. Praticò
- Unit of Rare Diseases of the Nervous System in Childhood, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abramov D, Guiberson NGL, Burré J. STXBP1 encephalopathies: Clinical spectrum, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies. J Neurochem 2021; 157:165-178. [PMID: 32643187 PMCID: PMC7812771 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in Munc18-1/STXBP1 (syntaxin-binding protein 1) are linked to various severe early epileptic encephalopathies and neurodevelopmental disorders. Heterozygous mutations in the STXBP1 gene include missense, nonsense, frameshift, and splice site mutations, as well as intragenic deletions and duplications and whole-gene deletions. No genotype-phenotype correlation has been identified so far, and patients are treated by anti-epileptic drugs because of the lack of a specific disease-modifying therapy. The molecular disease mechanisms underlying STXBP1-linked disorders are yet to be fully understood, but both haploinsufficiency and dominant-negative mechanisms have been proposed. This review focuses on the current understanding of the phenotypic spectrum of STXBP1-linked disorders, as well as discusses disease mechanisms in the context of the numerous pathways in which STXBP1 functions in the brain. We additionally evaluate the available animal models to study these disorders and highlight potential therapeutic approaches for treating these devastating diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debra Abramov
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Noah Guy Lewis Guiberson
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacqueline Burré
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ahmad SF, Ahmad KA, Ng YT. Neonatal Epileptic Encephalopathies. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2021; 37:100880. [PMID: 33892847 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2021.100880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The majority of neonatal seizures are related to common diagnoses, including hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and intraventricular hemorrhage. While relatively uncommon, neonatal epileptic encephalopathies represent an important group of neonatal seizure disorders that require immediate diagnosis and intervention. In this review, we provide a summary of the benign and severe neonatal epilepsy syndromes. While benign epilepsy syndromes have favorable prognoses, rapid and accurate diagnosis may prevent an unnecessarily long course of antiseizure medications. The severe epilepsy syndromes may be related to a number of underlying genetic disorders and often carry a poor prognosis. Herein we review diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and provide a set or algorithms for said purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samiya Fatima Ahmad
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, TX; The Children's Hospital of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX.
| | - Kaashif Aqeeb Ahmad
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, TX; The Children's Hospital of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; Pediatrix Medical Group of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Yu-Tze Ng
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, TX; The Children's Hospital of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kaminiów K, Kozak S, Paprocka J. Neonatal Seizures Revisited. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8020155. [PMID: 33670692 PMCID: PMC7922511 DOI: 10.3390/children8020155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are the most common neurological disorder in newborns and are most prevalent in the neonatal period. They are mostly caused by severe disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). However, they can also be a sign of the immaturity of the infant’s brain, which is characterized by the presence of specific factors that increase excitation and reduce inhibition. The most common disorders which result in acute brain damage and can manifest as seizures in neonates include hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, infections of the CNS as well as electrolyte and biochemical disturbances. The therapeutic management of neonates and the prognosis are different depending on the etiology of the disorders that cause seizures which can lead to death or disability. Therefore, establishing a prompt diagnosis and implementing appropriate treatment are significant, as they can limit adverse long-term effects and improve outcomes. In this review paper, we present the latest reports on the etiology, pathomechanism, clinical symptoms and guidelines for the management of neonates with acute symptomatic seizures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Kaminiów
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Sylwia Kozak
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Justyna Paprocka
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sekar S, Rudrabhatla P, Selvadasan V, Thomas B, Kesavadas C. Teaching NeuroImages: Ohtahara Syndrome due to Unilateral Perisylvian Polymicrogyria. Neurology 2021; 96:e2456-e2457. [PMID: 33402442 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000011497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sabarish Sekar
- From the Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (S.S., B.T., C.K.), Department of Neurology (P.R.), and Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (V.S.), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India.
| | - Pavankumar Rudrabhatla
- From the Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (S.S., B.T., C.K.), Department of Neurology (P.R.), and Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (V.S.), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India
| | - Vinayagamani Selvadasan
- From the Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (S.S., B.T., C.K.), Department of Neurology (P.R.), and Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (V.S.), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India
| | - Bejoy Thomas
- From the Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (S.S., B.T., C.K.), Department of Neurology (P.R.), and Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (V.S.), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India
| | - Chandrasekharan Kesavadas
- From the Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (S.S., B.T., C.K.), Department of Neurology (P.R.), and Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology (V.S.), Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum, India
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pisani F, Spagnoli C, Falsaperla R, Nagarajan L, Ramantani G. Seizures in the neonate: A review of etiologies and outcomes. Seizure 2021; 85:48-56. [PMID: 33418166 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures occur in their majority in close temporal relation to an acute brain injury or systemic insult, and are accordingly defined as acute symptomatic or provoked seizures. However less frequently, unprovoked seizures may also present in the neonatal period as secondary to structural brain abnormalities, thus corresponding to structural epilepsies, or to genetic conditions, thus corresponding to genetic epilepsies. Unprovoked neonatal seizures should be thus considered as the clinical manifestation of early onset structural or genetic epilepsies that often have the characteristics of early onset epileptic encephalopathies. In this review, we address the conundrum of neonatal seizures including acute symptomatic, remote symptomatic, provoked, and unprovoked seizures, evolving to post-neonatal epilepsies, and neonatal onset epilepsies. The different clinical scenarios involving neonatal seizures, each with their distinct post-neonatal evolution are presented. The structural and functional impact of neonatal seizures on brain development and the concept of secondary epileptogenesis, with or without a following latent period after the acute seizures, are addressed. Finally, we underline the need for an early differential diagnosis between an acute symptomatic seizure and an unprovoked seizure, since it is associated with fundamental differences in clinical evolution. These are crucial aspects for neonatal management, counselling and prognostication. In view of the above aspects, we provide an outlook on future strategies and potential lines of research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Pisani
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Carlotta Spagnoli
- Child Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University-Hospital Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | - Lakshmi Nagarajan
- Children's Neuroscience Service, Department of Neurology, Perth Children's Hospital, Australia
| | - Georgia Ramantani
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Armeno M, Caraballo R. The evolving indications of KD therapy. Epilepsy Res 2020; 163:106340. [PMID: 32330835 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the rapid increase of clinical and basic-science knowledge on ketogenic diet therapies over the past years, it has not always been easy to determine the adequate indications of this treatment. Over the nearly 100 years of use, from being a last resource in the therapeutic algorithm, the diet has become one of the four main treatments for patients with difficult-to-control epilepsy together with antiepileptic drugs, surgery, and vagus nerve stimulation. The use of the diet has also changed. The current paper will briefly discuss the history of the diet together with a review of the literature regarding its most important indications and how they have evolved. The concept of the importance of defining the type of seizure, type of syndrome, and etiology in the selection of patients and timing of diet initiation has been gaining importance. This paper explores how the indications of the diet changed together with the shifting focus of epilepsy teams towards its use in different types of epilepsy and epilepsy syndromes and according to etiologies and as an alternative option in refractory and superrefractory status epilepticus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Armeno
- Department of Nutrition, Hospital de Pediatria Juan P Garrahan, Combate de los Pozos 1881, C1245 CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Roberto Caraballo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Pediatria Juan P Garrahan, Combate de los Pozos 1881, C1245 CABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lee S, Kim SH, Kim B, Lee ST, Choi JR, Kim HD, Lee JS, Kang HC. Genetic diagnosis and clinical characteristics by etiological classification in early-onset epileptic encephalopathy with burst suppression pattern. Epilepsy Res 2020; 163:106323. [PMID: 32247221 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-onset epileptic encephalopathies with burst suppression (EOEE-BS) are a group of neonatal epileptic syndromes characterized by intractable epilepsy and severe psychomotor delay with structural and metabolic factors accounting for major etiologies. However, recent advances in gene sequencing have identified that genetic factors might also play a significant role in the development of EOEE-BS. Herein, we used various genetic tests to identify pathogenic genetic variants in EOEE-BS irrespective of structural malformations and analyzed the clinical features associated with each different etiology. METHODS A total of 48 patients with EOEE-BS were included. Except for patients with severe hypoxic damage, patients with structural malformations were included in our patient cohort. Clinical features of the patients were reviewed, and etiological diagnoses were made based on several genetic tests, metabolic studies, and radiological findings. RESULT A genetic diagnosis was made in 31 (64.6 %) patients, with the most commonly diagnosed gene being STXBP1 (n = 13, 27.1 %), followed by KCNQ2 (n = 5, 10.4 %), SCN2A (n = 5, 10.4 %), DEPDC5 (n = 3, 6.3 %), CASK (n = 1, 2.1 %), CDKL5 (n = 1, 2.1 %), GNAO1 (n = 1, 2.1 %), SLC6A8 (n = 1, 2.1 %), and LIS1 deletion (n = 1, 2.1 %). Other than the classification of epilepsy syndrome, no clinical features were associated with the genetically diagnosed group. Among eight patients with structural malformations, genetic diagnosis was achieved in five (62.5 %), and those patients had pathogenic mutations in DEPDC5 and CASK or LIS1 deletion, indicating the significance of gene sequencing irrespective of structural abnormalities. Treatment responses to a variety of medications and the ketogenic diet differed by etiology, and surgical resection proved to be effective in patients with cortical dysplasia. CONCLUSION Genetic etiologies are an important factor in EOEE-BS irrespective of structural malformations and the treatment options may differ by etiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangbo Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hee Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Borahm Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Tae Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Rak Choi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Dong Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Soo Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon-Chul Kang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mavrovic M, Uvarov P, Delpire E, Vutskits L, Kaila K, Puskarjov M. Loss of non-canonical KCC2 functions promotes developmental apoptosis of cortical projection neurons. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48880. [PMID: 32064760 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
KCC2, encoded in humans by the SLC12A5 gene, is a multifunctional neuron-specific protein initially identified as the chloride (Cl- ) extruder critical for hyperpolarizing GABAA receptor currents. Independently of its canonical function as a K-Cl cotransporter, KCC2 regulates the actin cytoskeleton via molecular interactions mediated through its large intracellular C-terminal domain (CTD). Contrary to the common assumption that embryonic neocortical projection neurons express KCC2 at non-significant levels, here we show that loss of KCC2 enhances apoptosis of late-born upper-layer cortical projection neurons in the embryonic brain. In utero electroporation of plasmids encoding truncated, transport-dead KCC2 constructs retaining the CTD was as efficient as of that encoding full-length KCC2 in preventing elimination of migrating projection neurons upon conditional deletion of KCC2. This was in contrast to the effect of a full-length KCC2 construct bearing a CTD missense mutation (KCC2R952H ), which disrupts cytoskeletal interactions and has been found in patients with neurological and psychiatric disorders, notably seizures and epilepsy. Together, our findings indicate ion transport-independent, CTD-mediated regulation of developmental apoptosis by KCC2 in migrating cortical projection neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Mavrovic
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pavel Uvarov
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eric Delpire
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Laszlo Vutskits
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva 4, Switzerland.,Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Kai Kaila
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Martin Puskarjov
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fallah MS, Eubanks JH. Seizures in Mouse Models of Rare Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neuroscience 2020; 445:50-68. [PMID: 32059984 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genetic neurodevelopmental disorders - that often include epilepsy as part of their phenotype - are a heterogeneous and clinically challenging spectrum of disorders in children. Although seizures often contribute significantly to morbidity in these affected populations, the mechanisms of epileptogenesis in these conditions remain poorly understood. Different model systems have been developed to aid in unraveling these mechanisms, which include a number of specific mutant mouse lines which genocopy specific general types of mutations present in patients. These mouse models have not only allowed for assessments of behavioral and electrographic seizure phenotypes to be ascertained, but also have allowed effects on the neurodevelopmental alterations and cognitive impairments associated with these disorders to be examined. In addition, these models play a role in advancing our understanding of these epileptic processes and developing preclinical therapeutics. The concordance of seizure phenotypes - in a select group of rare, genetic, neurodevelopmental disorders and epileptic encephalopathies - found between human patients and their model counterparts will be summarized. This review aims to assess whether models of Rett syndrome, CDKL5 deficiency disorder, Fragile-X syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and Ohtahara syndrome phenocopy the seizures seen in human patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merrick S Fallah
- Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 0S8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - James H Eubanks
- Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5T 0S8, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Surgery (Neurosurgery), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Takeda K, Miyamoto Y, Yamamoto H, Ishii A, Hirose S, Yamamoto H. Clinical features of early myoclonic encephalopathy caused by a CDKL5 mutation. Brain Dev 2020; 42:73-76. [PMID: 31492455 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CDKL5 deficiency is caused by mutations in the cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) gene and clinically manifests often in females as drug-resistant intractable epilepsy and severe psychomotor retardation. CASE REPORT We report the case of a girl with a CDKL5 mutation born at 39 weeks without neonatal asphyxia. She developed epilepsy at age 1 month with myoclonus of the face and limbs, and non-rhythmic and irregular opsoclonus. She developed tonic seizures and epileptic spasms at 6 months of age and was diagnosed with symptomatic West syndrome and underwent adrenocorticotropic hormone therapy but her seizures were refractory. At the age of 4, she was introduced to our hospital and development was at 2 months of age. We diagnosed her with early myoclonic encephalopathy (EME) due to the remaining suppression-burst pattern observed on an electroencephalogram and her symptoms since onset were mainly myoclonus. At 14 years of age, mutational analysis revealed a CDKL5 mutation (c.380A > G:p.His127Arg). She was diagnosed with epileptic encephalopathy exhibiting clinical features of early myoclonic epilepsy caused by CDKL5 deficiency. CONCLUSIONS Early onset epilepsy with severe psychomotor retardation without a known etiology may be caused by a mutation in CDKL5. More research investigating a genotype-phenotype correlation of CDKL5 mutations is necessary because clinical severity may be associated with the location and type of mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Takeda
- Kawasaki Municipal Tama Hospital, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Japan.
| | - Yusaku Miyamoto
- Kawasaki Municipal Tama Hospital, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hisako Yamamoto
- Kawasaki Municipal Tama Hospital, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ishii
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Japan
| | - Shinichi Hirose
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Precise detection of low-level somatic mutation in resected epilepsy brain tissue. Acta Neuropathol 2019; 138:901-912. [PMID: 31377847 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-02052-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Low-level somatic mutations have been shown to be the major genetic etiology of intractable epilepsy. The extents thereof, however, have yet to be systematically and accurately explored in a large cohort of resected epilepsy brain tissues. Moreover, clinically useful and precise analysis tools for detecting low-level somatic mutations from unmatched formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) brain samples, the most clinically relevant samples, are still lacking. In total, 446 tissues samples from 232 intractable epilepsy patients with various brain pathologies were analyzed using deep sequencing (average read depth, 1112x) of known epilepsy-related genes (up to 28 genes) followed by confirmatory site-specific amplicon sequencing. Pathogenic mutations were discovered in 31.9% (74 of 232) of the resected epilepsy brain tissues and were recurrently found in only eight major focal epilepsy genes, including AKT3, DEPDC5, MTOR, PIK3CA, TSC1, TSC2, SCL35A2, and BRAF. Somatic mutations, two-hit mutations, and germline mutations accounted for 22.0% (51), 0.9% (2), and 9.1% (21) of the patients with intractable epilepsy, respectively. The majority of pathogenic somatic mutations (62.3%, 33 of 53) had a low variant allelic frequency of less than 5%. The use of deep sequencing replicates in the eight major focal epilepsy genes robustly increased PPVs to 50-100% and sensitivities to 71-100%. In an independent FCDII cohort of only unmatched FFPE brain tissues, deep sequencing replicates in the eight major focal epilepsy genes identified pathogenic somatic mutations in 33.3% (5 of 15) of FCDII individuals (similar to the genetic detecting rate in the entire FCDII cohort) without any false-positive calls. Deep sequencing replicates of major focal epilepsy genes in unmatched FFPE brain tissues can be used to accurately and efficiently detect low-level somatic mutations, thereby improving overall patient care by enriching genetic counseling and informing treatment decisions.
Collapse
|
33
|
Kosaka T, Ohta G, Kometani H, Kawatani M, Ohshima Y. A case of early myoclonic encephalopathy with intractable seizures successfully treated with high-dose phenobarbital. Brain Dev 2019; 41:717-720. [PMID: 31027651 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early myoclonic encephalopathy (EME) is an epileptic syndrome that develops in neonates, commonly within 1 month of birth. The condition is characterized by irregular, partial, and asynchronous myoclonus. The seizures in EME are generally refractory to antiepileptic drugs and no effective treatment for EME has been established. We encountered a case of EME in which oral high-dose phenobarbital therapy effectively alleviated seizures. CASE REPORT A male infant developed erratic myoclonus in the face and limbs, exhibited upward gaze and facial flushing 20-30 times a day since 1 week of age. Electroencephalogram (EEG) showed a burst-suppression pattern, and considering the clinical features, EME was diagnosed. Valproate and vitamin B6 treatments were initiated; however, they were not effective. At day 58 after birth, oral high-dose phenobarbital therapy was introduced which resulted in the suppression of seizures to one or two per week and disappearance of the burst-suppression pattern on EEG. CONCLUSION Oral high-dose phenobarbital treatment may be suitable for controlling seizures in EME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Kosaka
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Fukui, Japan.
| | - Genrei Ohta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Fukui, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kometani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Fukui, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Houju Memorial Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Yusei Ohshima
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Fukui, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Anwar A, Saleem S, Patel UK, Arumaithurai K, Malik P. Dravet Syndrome: An Overview. Cureus 2019; 11:e5006. [PMID: 31497436 PMCID: PMC6713249 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.5006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS), also known as severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI), is one of the rare early childhood intractable epileptic encephalopathies associated with pleomorphic seizure activity, cognitive decline, motor, and behavioral abnormalities. The convulsive seizure is the most common type seen in DS. After the first episode of seizure-like activity, behavioral disorders and cognitive decline are progressive and long-lasting. The most common etiology identified in patients with DS is a de-novo genetic mutation alpha-1 subunit of voltage-gated calcium channel gene (SCN1A). DS is diagnosed clinically and if unclear, genetic testing is recommended. DS treatment options include anti-epileptic drugs and cannabinoids; ketogenic diet therapy and surgical options such as the deep brain and vagal nerve stimulation. Due to drug-refractory epilepsy in DS, many more therapies are being investigated to increase the longevity of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Anwar
- Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, USA
| | | | - Urvish K Patel
- Neurology & Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | | | - Preeti Malik
- Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ishikawa N, Tateishi Y, Tani H, Kobayashi Y, Itai T, Miyatake S, Kato M, Matsumoto N, Kobayashi M. Successful treatment of intractable life-threatening seizures with perampanel in the first case of early myoclonic encephalopathy with a novel de novo SCN1A mutation. Seizure 2019; 71:20-23. [PMID: 31176277 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Early myoclonic encephalopathy (EME) is a form of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with myoclonic seizures and a suppression burst on electroencephalogram, which occurs during the neonatal or early infantile period and is characterized by highly intractable seizures and severe development impairment. Although multiple genetic aetiologies of EME have been identified, no SCN1A mutation has been reported. METHODS We described a female patient with EME due to an SCN1A mutation. RESULTS She developed frequent myoclonic and apnoeic seizures during the neonatal period. As her seizures were refractory to many antiepileptic drugs, she underwent a tracheotomy and has since been treated with continuous mechanical ventilation. Eventually, perampanel was added, which resulted in the cessation of the apnoeic seizures. Genetic analysis revealed a heterozygous de novo missense mutation in the SCN1A gene (c.2588 T > C:p.Leu863Ser). CONCLUSION This is the first patient with EME due to anSCN1A mutation to be successfully treated with perampanel. Recently, perampanel was reported to be effective in treating Dravet syndrome, including cases with an SCN1A mutation. Perampanel may contribute to seizure reduction in patients with intractable epilepsy carrying the SCN1A mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuichi Tateishi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroo Tani
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Toshiyuki Itai
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Satoko Miyatake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Showa University School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masao Kobayashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Meiron O, Gale R, Namestnic J, Bennet-Back O, Gebodh N, Esmaeilpour Z, Mandzhiyev V, Bikson M. Antiepileptic Effects of a Novel Non-invasive Neuromodulation Treatment in a Subject With Early-Onset Epileptic Encephalopathy: Case Report With 20 Sessions of HD-tDCS Intervention. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:547. [PMID: 31191235 PMCID: PMC6548848 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The current clinical investigation examined high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) as a focal, non-invasive, anti-epileptic treatment in a child with early-onset epileptic encephalopathy. We investigated the clinical impact of repetitive (20 daily sessions) cathode-centered 4 × 1 HD-tDCS (1 mA, 20 min, 4 mm ring radius) over the dominant seizure-generating cortical zone in a 40-month-old child suffering from a severe neonatal epileptic syndrome known as Ohtahara syndrome (OS). Seizures and epileptiform activity were monitored and quantified using video-EEG over multiple days of baseline, intervention, and post-intervention periods. Primary outcome measures were changes in seizure frequency and duration on the last day of intervention versus the last baseline day, preceding the intervention. In particular, we examined changes in tonic spasms, tonic-myoclonic seizures (TM-S), and myoclonic seizures from baseline to post-intervention. A trend in TM-S frequency was observed indicating a reduction of 73% in TM-S frequency, which was non-significant [t(4) = 2.05, p = 0.1], and denoted a clinically significant change. Myoclonic seizure (M-S) frequency was significantly reduced [t(4) = 3.83, p = 0.019] by 68.42%, compared to baseline, and indicated a significant clinical change as well. A 73% decrease in interictal epileptic discharges (IEDs) frequency was also observed immediately after the intervention period, compared to IED frequency at 3 days prior to intervention. Post-intervention seizure-related peak delta desynchronization was reduced by 57%. Our findings represent a case-specific significant clinical response, reduction in IED, and change in seizure-related delta activity following the application of HD-tDCS. The clinical outcomes, as noted in the current study, encourage the further investigation of this focal, non-invasive neuromodulation procedure in other severe electroclinical syndromes (e.g., West syndrome) and in larger pediatric populations diagnosed with early-onset epileptic encephalopathy. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02960347, protocol ID: Meiron 2013-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oded Meiron
- The Clinical Research Center for Brain Sciences, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rena Gale
- Children Respiratory Unit, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Julia Namestnic
- Children Respiratory Unit, Herzog Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Odeya Bennet-Back
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nigel Gebodh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Zeinab Esmaeilpour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Vladislav Mandzhiyev
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Marom Bikson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Milh M, Riccardi F, Denis J. Genetics of neonatal onset epilepsies: An overview. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2019; 176:2-9. [PMID: 31097300 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.01.396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The weight of monogenic abnormalities in the possible causes of epilepsy has grown significantly in recent years, due to the emergence of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. Especially notable in early neonatal and infantile epilepsies, which seem to be explained by monogenic abnormalities. This short review focuses on the major genes associated with very early-onset epilepsies, where NGS techniques are most cost-effective: early infantile epileptic encephalopathy, early myoclonic encephalopathy, and other neonatal epilepsies. The discovery of the genetic mutation often follows several weeks or months of management, and rarely modifies it. However, clinical studies can sometimes better define medical treatment. The genetic causes of these epilepsies are very numerous and the pathophysiological knowledge very minimal. The big challenge for the coming years is to develop more targeted treatments based on research on animal models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Milh
- Aix-Marseille université, Inserm, MMG, 58, boulevard Charles-Livon, 13009 Marseille, France; Pediatric neurology unit, Timone Children Hospital, AP-HM, 278, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France.
| | - F Riccardi
- Pediatric neurology unit, Timone Children Hospital, AP-HM, 278, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - J Denis
- Pediatric neurology unit, Timone Children Hospital, AP-HM, 278, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005 Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
The epileptic encephalopathy jungle - from Dr West to the concepts of aetiology-related and developmental encephalopathies. Curr Opin Neurol 2019; 31:216-222. [PMID: 29356691 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We aim to further disentangle the jungle of terminology of epileptic encephalopathy and provide some insights into the current understanding about the aetiology and pathophysiology of this process. We cover also the key features of epilepsy syndromes of infancy and childhood which are considered at high risk of developing an epileptic encephalopathy. RECENT FINDINGS The concept of 'epileptic encephalopathy' has progressively been elaborated by the International League Against Epilepsy according to growing clinical and laboratory evidence. It defines a process of neurological impairment caused by the epileptic activity itself and, therefore, potentially reversible with successful treatment, although to a variable extent. Epileptic activity interfering with neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and normal network organization as well as triggering neuroinflammation are among the possible pathophysiological mechanisms leading to the neurological compromise. This differs from the newly introduced concept of 'developmental encephalopathy' which applies to where the epilepsy and developmental delay are both because of the underlying aetiology and aggressive antiepileptic treatment may not be helpful. SUMMARY The understanding and use of correct terminology is crucial in clinical practice enabling appropriate expectations of antiepileptic treatment. Further research is needed to elucidate underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, define clear outcome predictors, and find new treatment targets.
Collapse
|
39
|
Rochtus AM, Trowbridge S, Goldstein RD, Sheidley BR, Prabhu SP, Haynes R, Kinney HC, Poduri AH. Mutations in NRXN1 and NRXN2 in a patient with early-onset epileptic encephalopathy and respiratory depression. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2019; 5:mcs.a003442. [PMID: 30709877 PMCID: PMC6371743 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a003442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE) is a severe disorder associated with epilepsy, developmental delay and intellectual disability, and in some cases premature mortality. We report the case of a female infant with EIEE and strikingly suppressed respiratory dysfunction that led to death. Postmortem research evaluation revealed hypoplasia of the arcuate nucleus of the medulla, a candidate region for respiratory regulation. Genetic evaluation revealed heterozygous variants in the related genes NRXN1 (c.2686C>T, p.Arg896Trp) and NRXN2 (c.3176G>A, p.Arg1059Gln), one inherited from the mother with family history of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and one from the father with family history of febrile seizures. Although there are no previous reports with the digenic combination of NRXN1 and NRXN2 variants, patients with biallelic loss of NRXN1 in humans and double neurexin 1α/2α knockout mice have severe breathing abnormalities, corresponding to the respiratory phenotype of our patient. These observations and the known interaction between the NRXN1 and NRXN2 proteins lead us to hypothesize that digenic variants in NRXN1 and NRXN2 contributed to the phenotype of EIEE, arcuate nucleus hypoplasia, respiratory failure, and death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Rochtus
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Sara Trowbridge
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Richard D Goldstein
- Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Beth Rosen Sheidley
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Sanjay P Prabhu
- Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Robin Haynes
- Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Hannah C Kinney
- Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Annapurna H Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Robert's Program on Sudden Death in Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.,Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Camfield P, Camfield C. Regression in children with epilepsy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 96:210-218. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
41
|
Boylan GB, Kharoshankaya L, Mathieson SR. Diagnosis of seizures and encephalopathy using conventional EEG and amplitude integrated EEG. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2019; 162:363-400. [PMID: 31324321 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64029-1.00018-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are more common in the neonatal period than at any other time of life, partly due to the relative hyperexcitability of the neonatal brain. Brain monitoring of sick neonates in the NICU using either conventional electroencephalography or amplitude integrated EEG is essential to accurately detect seizures. Treatment of seizures is important, as evidence increasingly indicates that seizures damage the brain in addition to that caused by the underlying etiology. Prompt treatment has been shown to reduce seizure burden with the potential to ameliorate seizure-mediated damage. Neonatal encephalopathy most commonly caused by a hypoxia-ischemia results in an alteration of mental status and problems such as seizures, hypotonia, apnea, and feeding difficulties. Confirmation of encephalopathy with EEG monitoring can act as an important adjunct to other investigations and the clinical examination, particularly when considering treatment strategies such as therapeutic hypothermia. Brain monitoring also provides useful early prognostic indicators to clinicians. Recent use of machine learning in algorithms to continuously monitor the neonatal EEG, detect seizures, and grade encephalopathy offers the exciting prospect of real-time decision support in the NICU in the very near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine B Boylan
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Liudmila Kharoshankaya
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sean R Mathieson
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bozarth X, Dines JN, Cong Q, Mirzaa GM, Foss K, Merritt JL, Thies J, Mefford HC, Novotny E. Expanding clinical phenotype in CACNA1C related disorders: From neonatal onset severe epileptic encephalopathy to late-onset epilepsy. Am J Med Genet A 2018; 176:2733-2739. [PMID: 30513141 PMCID: PMC6312477 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.40657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
CACNA1C (NM_000719.6) encodes an L-type calcium voltage-gated calcium channel (Cav 1.2), and pathogenic variants have been associated with two distinct clinical entities: Timothy syndrome and Brugada syndrome. Thus far, CACNA1C has not been reported as a gene associated with epileptic encephalopathy and is less commonly associated with epilepsy. We report three individuals from two families with variants in CACNA1C. Patient 1 presented with neonatal onset epileptic encephalopathy (NOEE) and was found to have a de novo missense variant in CACNA1C (c.4087G>A (p.V1363M)) on exome sequencing. In Family 2, Patient 2 presented with congenital cardiac anomalies and cardiomyopathy and was found to have a paternally inherited splice site variant, c.3717+1_3717+2insA, on a cardiomyopathy panel. Her father, Patient 3, presented with learning difficulties, late-onset epilepsy, and congenital cardiac anomalies. Family 2 highlights variable expressivity seen within a family. This case series expands the clinical and molecular phenotype of CACNA1C-related disorders and highlights the need to include CACNA1C on epilepsy gene panels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Bozarth
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Jennifer N. Dines
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Qian Cong
- Department of Biochemistry and Institution for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Ghayda M. Mirzaa
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Kimberly Foss
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - J. Lawrence Merritt
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Jenny Thies
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Heather C. Mefford
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Edward Novotny
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Rapid Diagnosis of KCNQ2-Associated Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy Improved Outcome. Pediatr Neurol 2018; 86:69-70. [PMID: 30107960 PMCID: PMC6824418 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
44
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews the manifestations and treatment of the epileptic encephalopathies, which are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by both seizures and neurocognitive impairment. RECENT FINDINGS Next-generation (exome- and genome-based) sequencing technologies are revolutionizing the identification of single-gene causes of epileptic encephalopathy but have only had a modest impact on patient-specific treatment decisions. The treatment of most forms of epileptic encephalopathy remains a particularly challenging endeavor, with therapeutic decisions chiefly driven by the electroclinical syndrome classification. Most antiseizure drugs are ineffective in the treatment of these disorders, and treatments that are effective often entail significant risk and cost. SUMMARY The epileptic encephalopathies continue to pose a major challenge in diagnosis and treatment, with most patients experiencing very poor outcomes, although a significant minority of patients respond to, or are even cured by, specific therapies.
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
The tragedy of epilepsy emerges from the combination of its high prevalence, impact upon sufferers and their families, and unpredictability. Childhood epilepsies are frequently severe, presenting in infancy with pharmaco-resistant seizures; are often accompanied by debilitating neuropsychiatric and systemic comorbidities; and carry a grave risk of mortality. Here, we review the most current basic science and translational research findings on several of the most catastrophic forms of pediatric epilepsy. We focus largely on genetic epilepsies and the research that is discovering the mechanisms linking disease genes to epilepsy syndromes. We also describe the strides made toward developing novel pharmacological and interventional treatment strategies to treat these disorders. The research reviewed provides hope for a complete understanding of, and eventual cure for, these childhood epilepsy syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- MacKenzie A Howard
- Center for Learning and Memory and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Texas, 78712;
| | - Scott C Baraban
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory in the Department of Neurological Surgery, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143;
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Orock A, Logan S, Deak F. Munc18-1 haploinsufficiency impairs learning and memory by reduced synaptic vesicular release in a model of Ohtahara syndrome. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 88:33-42. [PMID: 29217410 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ohtahara syndrome, also known as type 4 of Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy with suppression bursts (EIEE-4) is currently an untreatable disorder that presents with seizures and impaired cognition. EIEE-4 patients have mutations most frequently in the STXBP1 gene encoding a Sec protein, munc18-1. The exact molecular mechanism of how these munc18-1 mutations cause impaired cognition, remains elusive. The leading haploinsufficiency hypothesis posits that mutations in munc18-1 render the protein unstable leading to its degradation. Expression driven by the healthy allele is not sufficient to maintain the physiological function resulting in haploinsufficiency. The aim of this study has been to understand how munc18-1 haploinsufficiency causes cognitive impairment seen in EIEE-4. Here we present results from behavioral to cellular effects from a mouse model of munc18-1 haploinsufficiency. Munc18-1 heterozygous knock-out mice showed impaired spatial learning and memory in behavior tests as well as reduced synaptic plasticity in hippocampal CA1 long-term potentiation. Cultured munc18-1 heterozygous hippocampal neurons had significantly slower rate of synaptic vesicle release and decreased readily releasable vesicle pool compared to wild-type control neurons in fluorescent FM dye assays. These results demonstrate that reduced munc18-1 levels are sufficient to impair learning and memory by reducing neurotransmitter release. Therefore, our study implicates munc18-1 haploinsufficiency as a primary cause of cognitive impairment seen in EIEE-4 patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Orock
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dept. of Geriatric Medicine, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sreemathi Logan
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dept. of Geriatric Medicine, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ferenc Deak
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Reynolds Oklahoma Center on Aging, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dept. of Geriatric Medicine, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Dept. of Physiology, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, Univ. Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Meiron O, Gale R, Namestnic J, Bennet-Back O, David J, Gebodh N, Adair D, Esmaeilpour Z, Bikson M. High-Definition transcranial direct current stimulation in early onset epileptic encephalopathy: a case study. Brain Inj 2017; 32:135-143. [PMID: 29156988 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2017.1390254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE Early onset epileptic encephalopathy is characterized by high daily seizure-frequency, multifocal epileptic discharges, severe psychomotor retardation, and death at infancy. Currently, there are no effective treatments to alleviate seizure frequency and high-voltage epileptic discharges in these catastrophic epilepsy cases. The current study examined the safety and feasibility of High-Definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) in reducing epileptiform activity in a 30-month-old child suffering from early onset epileptic encephalopathy. DESIGN AND METHODS HD-tDCS was administered over 10 intervention days spanning two weeks including pre- and post-intervention video-EEG monitoring. RESULTS There were no serious adverse events or side effects related to the HD-tDCS intervention. Frequency of clinical seizures was not significantly reduced. However, interictal sharp wave amplitudes were significantly lower during the post-intervention period versus baseline. Vital signs and blood biochemistry remained stable throughout the entire study. CONCLUSIONS These exploratory findings support the safety and feasibility of 4 × 1 HD-tDCS in early onset epileptic encephalopathy and provide the first evidence of HD-tDCS effects on paroxysmal EEG features in electroclinical cases under the age of 36 months. Extending HD-tDCS treatment may enhance electrographic findings and clinical effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oded Meiron
- a Clinical Research Center for Brain Sciences , Herzog Medical Center , Jerusalem , Israel
| | - Rena Gale
- b Children Respiratory Unit , Herzog Medical Center , Jerusalem , Israel
| | - Julia Namestnic
- b Children Respiratory Unit , Herzog Medical Center , Jerusalem , Israel
| | - Odeya Bennet-Back
- c Pediatric Neurology Department , Shaare Zedek Medical Center , Jerusalem , Israel
| | - Jonathan David
- a Clinical Research Center for Brain Sciences , Herzog Medical Center , Jerusalem , Israel
| | - Nigel Gebodh
- d Department of Biomedical Engineering , The City College of the City University of New York , New York , USA
| | - Devin Adair
- d Department of Biomedical Engineering , The City College of the City University of New York , New York , USA
| | - Zeinab Esmaeilpour
- d Department of Biomedical Engineering , The City College of the City University of New York , New York , USA.,e Biomedical Engineering Department , Amirkabir University of Technology , Tehran , Iran
| | - Marom Bikson
- d Department of Biomedical Engineering , The City College of the City University of New York , New York , USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Nickels KC, Wirrell EC. Cognitive and Social Outcomes of Epileptic Encephalopathies. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2017; 24:264-275. [PMID: 29249506 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The term "epileptic encephalopathy" denotes a disorder in which seizures or frequent interictal discharges exacerbate neurocognitive dysfunction beyond what would be expected on the basis of underlying etiology. However, many underlying causes of epileptic encephalopathy also result in neurocognitive deficits, and it can be challenging to discern to what extent these deficits can be improved with better seizure control. Additionally, as seizures in these conditions are typically refractory, children are often exposed to high doses of multiple antiepileptic drugs which further exacerbate these comorbidities. This review will summarize the neurocognitive and social outcomes in children with various epileptic encephalopathies. Prompt, accurate diagnosis of epilepsy syndrome and etiology allows selection of optimal therapy to maximize seizure control, limiting the impact of ongoing seizures and frequent epileptiform abnormalities on the developing brain. Furthermore, mandatory screening for comorbidities allows early recognition and focused therapy for these commonly associated conditions to maximize neurocognitive outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine C Nickels
- Divisions of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Epilepsy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Elaine C Wirrell
- Divisions of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Epilepsy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Tsuchida N, Nakashima M, Miyauchi A, Yoshitomi S, Kimizu T, Ganesan V, Teik KW, Ch'ng GS, Kato M, Mizuguchi T, Takata A, Miyatake S, Miyake N, Osaka H, Yamagata T, Nakajima H, Saitsu H, Matsumoto N. Novel biallelic SZT2 mutations in 3 cases of early-onset epileptic encephalopathy. Clin Genet 2017; 93:266-274. [PMID: 28556953 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The seizure threshold 2 (SZT2) gene encodes a large, highly conserved protein that is associated with epileptogenesis. In mice, Szt2 is abundantly expressed in the central nervous system. Recently, biallelic SZT2 mutations were found in 7 patients (from 5 families) presenting with epileptic encephalopathy with dysmorphic features and/or non-syndromic intellectual disabilities. In this study, we identified by whole-exome sequencing compound heterozygous SZT2 mutations in 3 patients with early-onset epileptic encephalopathies. Six novel SZT2 mutations were found, including 3 truncating, 1 splice site and 2 missense mutations. The splice-site mutation resulted in skipping of exon 20 and was associated with a premature stop codon. All individuals presented with seizures, severe developmental delay and intellectual disabilities with high variability. Brain MRIs revealed a characteristic thick and short corpus callosum or a persistent cavum septum pellucidum in each of the 2 cases. Interestingly, in the third case, born to consanguineous parents, had unexpected compound heterozygous missense mutations. She showed microcephaly despite the other case and previous ones presenting with macrocephaly, suggesting that SZT2 mutations might affect head size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Tsuchida
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - M Nakashima
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - A Miyauchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - S Yoshitomi
- Department of Pediatrics, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - T Kimizu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - V Ganesan
- Department of Pediatrics, Penang Hospital, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - K W Teik
- Genetic Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - G-S Ch'ng
- Genetic Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - M Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - T Mizuguchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - A Takata
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - S Miyatake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.,Clinical Genetics Department, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - N Miyake
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - H Osaka
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - T Yamagata
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - H Nakajima
- Department of Stem Cell and Immune Regulation, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - H Saitsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - N Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Villeneuve N, Abidi A, Cacciagli P, Mignon-Ravix C, Chabrol B, Villard L, Milh M. Heterogeneity of FHF1 related phenotype: Novel case with early onset severe attacks of apnea, partial mitochondrial respiratory chain complex II deficiency, neonatal onset seizures without neurodegeneration. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2017; 21:783-786. [PMID: 28506426 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES We report the case of a child prospectively followed in our institution for a severe, neonatal onset epilepsy presenting with severe attacks of apnea that were not initially recognized as seizure since they were not associated with any abnormal movement and since interictal EEG was normal. Recording of attacks using prolonged video-EEG recording allowed to confirm the diagnosis of epileptic seizures. RESULTS Using whole exome sequencing we found a de novo heterozygous, missense mutation of FHF1 (p.Arg52His, NM_004113), a mutation that has been very recently described in 7 patients with an early onset epileptic encephalopathy. The initial workup showed a partial deficit of the complex II of the respiratory chain in muscle and liver. The prospective follow-up demonstrated that 2 drugs seemed to be more effective than the others: sodium blocker carbamazepine, and serotonin reuptake blocker fluoxetine. GABAergic drugs seemed to be ineffective. No drug aggravated the epilepsy. DISCUSSION This case report contributes to the description of an emerging phenotype for this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Villeneuve
- APHM, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hopital de la Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Affef Abidi
- AIx Marseille univ, INSERM, GMGF, UMR_S 910, Faculté de médecine, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Cacciagli
- AIx Marseille univ, INSERM, GMGF, UMR_S 910, Faculté de médecine, Marseille, France
| | - Cécile Mignon-Ravix
- AIx Marseille univ, INSERM, GMGF, UMR_S 910, Faculté de médecine, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Chabrol
- APHM, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hopital de la Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- AIx Marseille univ, INSERM, GMGF, UMR_S 910, Faculté de médecine, Marseille, France.
| | - Mathieu Milh
- APHM, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hopital de la Timone, Marseille, France; AIx Marseille univ, INSERM, GMGF, UMR_S 910, Faculté de médecine, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|