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Yokoyama R. Evolution of aromatic amino acid metabolism in plants: a key driving force behind plant chemical diversity in aromatic natural products. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230352. [PMID: 39343022 PMCID: PMC11439500 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
A diverse array of plant aromatic compounds contributes to the tremendous chemical diversity in the plant kingdom that cannot be seen in microbes or animals. Such chemodiversity of aromatic natural products has emerged, occasionally in a lineage-specific manner, to adopt to challenging environmental niches, as various aromatic specialized metabolites play indispensable roles in plant development and stress responses (e.g. lignin, phytohormones, pigments and defence compounds). These aromatic natural products are synthesized from aromatic amino acids (AAAs), l-tyrosine, l-phenylalanine and l-tryptophan. While amino acid metabolism is generally assumed to be conserved between animals, microbes and plants, recent phylogenomic, biochemical and metabolomic studies have revealed the diversity of the AAA metabolism that supports efficient carbon allocation to downstream biosynthetic pathways of AAA-derived metabolites in plants. This review showcases the intra- and inter-kingdom diversification and origin of committed enzymes involved in plant AAA biosynthesis and catabolism and their potential application as genetic tools for plant metabolic engineering. I also discuss evolutionary trends in the diversification of plant AAA metabolism that expands the chemical diversity of AAA-derived aromatic natural products in plants. This article is part of the theme issue 'The evolution of plant metabolism'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Yokoyama
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology , Potsdam, Am Mühlenberg 1 14476, Germany
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2
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Buonamassa R, Boscia G, Gaudiomonte M, Guerriero S, Fischetto R, Montepara A, Grassi MO, Pignataro MG, Puzo P, Giancipoli E, D’addario M, Alessio G, Boscia F, Viggiano P. Neurovascular retinal impairment in early-treated adults with phenylketonuria. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1305984. [PMID: 38974690 PMCID: PMC11225547 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1305984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) vascular plexus parameters and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness between Early-Treated Adults with Phenylketonuria (ETPKU) and controls. Methods This observational study was a monocentric, case control study including 36 eyes of 36 participants. Among these, 18 were early-treated PKU (ETPKU) and 18 were controls. A SD-OCTA (XR Avanti AngioVue OCTA; Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA) was employed to assess the OCT and OCTA parameters of all the participants. The main outcome measures were the RPC vessels density (VD) %, and the pRNFL thickness. Results The average pRNFL thickness was significantly reduced in ETPKU (110.78 ± 12.48 μm) compared to controls (113.22 ± 13.95 μm), p = 0.046. The mean VD% of the small vessels of the RPC plexus was 52.31 ± 2.2 in ETPKU and 50.71 ± 3.2 in controls (p = 0.049), while the VD% of all the radial peripapillary capillary plexus (RPCP) was 58.5 ± 2.2 in ETPKU and 55.08 ± 3.4 in controls (p < 0.001). By contrast, there were no differences in age, sex, and IOP between the two groups. Conclusion Through structural OCT and OCTA, we observed thinning of the nerve fibers accompanied by an increase in perfusion of the RPC plexus. Thus, our conclusions suggest that OCTA may serve as a noninvasive method to identify novel retinal biomarkers in ETPKU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Buonamassa
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Marida Gaudiomonte
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Silvana Guerriero
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Rita Fischetto
- Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Pediatric Medicine, Giovanni XXIII Children’s Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Alfonso Montepara
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Oliva Grassi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Pignataro
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Puzo
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Marina D’addario
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Alessio
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Viggiano
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
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3
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Schoen MS, Boland KM, Christ SE, Cui X, Ramakrishnan U, Ziegler TR, Alvarez JA, Singh RH. Total choline intake and working memory performance in adults with phenylketonuria. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:222. [PMID: 37516884 PMCID: PMC10386684 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02842-y] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite early diagnosis and compliance with phenylalanine (Phe)-restricted diets, many individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) still exhibit neurological changes and experience deficits in working memory and other executive functions. Suboptimal choline intake may contribute to these impairments, but this relationship has not been previously investigated in PKU. The objective of this study was to determine if choline intake is correlated with working memory performance, and if this relationship is modified by diagnosis and metabolic control. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that included 40 adults with PKU and 40 demographically matched healthy adults. Web-based neurocognitive tests were used to assess working memory performance and 3-day dietary records were collected to evaluate nutrient intake. Recent and historical blood Phe concentrations were collected as measures of metabolic control. RESULTS Working memory performance was 0.32 z-scores (95% CI 0.06, 0.58) lower, on average, in participants with PKU compared to participants without PKU, and this difference was not modified by total choline intake (F[1,75] = 0.85, p = 0.36). However, in a subgroup with complete historical blood Phe data, increased total choline intake was related to improved working memory outcomes among participants with well controlled PKU (Phe = 360 µmol/L) after adjusting for intellectual ability and mid-childhood Phe concentrations (average change in working memory per 100 mg change in choline = 0.11; 95% CI 0.02, 0.20; p = 0.02). There also was a trend, albeit nonsignificant (p = 0.10), for this association to be attenuated with increased Phe concentrations. CONCLUSIONS Clinical monitoring of choline intake is essential for all individuals with PKU but may have important implications for working memory functioning among patients with good metabolic control. Results from this study should be confirmed in a larger controlled trial in people living with PKU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriah S Schoen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 7130, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Kelly M Boland
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Shawn E Christ
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Xiangqin Cui
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Usha Ramakrishnan
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Thomas R Ziegler
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jessica A Alvarez
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rani H Singh
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, Suite 7130, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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4
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Rovelli V, Longo N. Phenylketonuria and the brain. Mol Genet Metab 2023; 139:107583. [PMID: 37105048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2023.107583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Classic phenylketonuria (PKU) is caused by defective activity of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), the enzyme that coverts phenylalanine (Phe) to tyrosine. Toxic accumulation of phenylalanine and its metabolites, left untreated, affects brain development and function depending on the timing of exposure to elevated levels. The specific mechanisms of Phe-induced brain damage are not completely understood, but they correlate to phenylalanine levels and on the stage of brain growth. During fetal life, high levels of phenylalanine such as those seen in maternal PKU can result in microcephaly, neuronal loss and corpus callosum hypoplasia. Elevated phenylalanine levels during the first few years of life can cause acquired microcephaly, severe cognitive impairment and epilepsy, likely due to the impairment of synaptogenesis. During late childhood, elevated phenylalanine can cause alterations in neurological functioning, leading to ADHD, speech delay and mild IQ reduction. In adolescents and adults, executive function and mood are affected, with some of the abnormalities reversed by better control of phenylalanine levels. Altered brain myelination can be present at this stage. In this article, we review the current knowledge about the consequences of high phenylalanine levels in PKU patients and animal models through different stages of brain development and its effect on cognitive, behavioural and neuropsychological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Rovelli
- Clinical Department of Pediatrics, University of Milan, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - Nicola Longo
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Romani C, Olson A, Aitkenhead L, Baker L, Patel D, Spronsen FV, MacDonald A, Wegberg AV, Huijbregts S. Meta-analyses of cognitive functions in early-treated adults with phenylketonuria. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 143:104925. [PMID: 36283539 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Our study estimated size of impairment for different cognitive functions in early-treated adults with PKU (AwPKU) by combining literature results in a meta-analytic way. We analysed a large set of functions (N = 19), each probed by different measures (average = 12). Data were extracted from 26 PKU groups and matched controls, with 757 AwPKU contributing 220 measures. Effect sizes (ESs) were computed using Glass' ∆ where differences in performance between clinical/PKU and control groups are standardized using the mean and standard deviation of the control groups. Significance was assessed using measures nested within independent PKU groups as a random factor. The weighted Glass' ∆ was - 0.44 for all functions taken together, and - 0.60 for IQ, both highly significant. Separate, significant impairments were found for most functions, but with great variability (ESs from -1.02 to -0.18). The most severe impairments were in reasoning, visual-spatial attention speed, sustained attention, visuo-motor control, and flexibility. Effect sizes were larger with speed than accuracy measures, and with visuo-spatial than verbal stimuli. Results show a specific PKU profile that needs consideration when monitoring the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Olson
- Psychology Department, University of Birmingham, UK.
| | | | - Lucy Baker
- Psychology Department, Aston University, UK.
| | | | | | - Anita MacDonald
- Birmingham Women' s and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
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Thau-Zuchman O, Pallier PN, Savelkoul PJM, Kuipers AAM, Verkuyl JM, Michael-Titus AT. High phenylalanine concentrations induce demyelination and microglial activation in mouse cerebellar organotypic slices. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:926023. [PMID: 36248632 PMCID: PMC9559601 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.926023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism. Mutations in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH)-encoding gene lead to a decreased metabolism of the amino acid phenylalanine (Phe). The deficiency in PAH increases Phe levels in blood and brain. Accumulation of Phe can lead to delayed development, psychiatric problems and cognitive impairment. White matter (WM) damage is a neuropathological hallmark of PKU and can be seen even in early detected and treated PKU patients. The mechanisms linking high Phe concentrations to WM abnormalities remain unclear. We tested the effects of high Phe concentrations on myelin in three in vitro models of increasing complexity: two simple cell culture models and one model that preserves local brain tissue architecture, a cerebellar organotypic slice culture prepared from postnatal day (P) 8 CD-1 mice. Various Phe concentrations (0.1–10 mM) and durations of exposure were tested. We found no toxic effect of high Phe in the cell culture models. On the contrary, the treatment promoted the maturation of oligodendrocytes, particularly at the highest, non-physiological Phe concentrations. Exposure of cerebellar organotypic slices to 2.4 mM Phe for 21 days in vitro (DIV), but not 7 or 10 DIV, resulted in a significant decrease in myelin basic protein (MBP), calbindin-stained neurites, and neurites co-stained with MBP. Following exposure to a toxic concentration of Phe, a switch to the control medium for 7 days did not lead to remyelination, while very active remyelination was seen in slices following demyelination with lysolecithin. An enhanced number of microglia, displaying an activated type morphology, was seen after exposure of the slices to 2.4 mM Phe for 10 or 21 DIV. The results suggest that prolonged exposure to high Phe concentrations can induce microglial activation preceding significant disruption of myelin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orli Thau-Zuchman
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick N. Pallier
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Patrick N. Pallier,
| | | | | | | | - Adina T. Michael-Titus
- Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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7
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Borges AC, Broersen K, Leandro P, Fernandes TG. Engineering Organoids for in vitro Modeling of Phenylketonuria. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:787242. [PMID: 35082602 PMCID: PMC8784555 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.787242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria is a recessive genetic disorder of amino-acid metabolism, where impaired phenylalanine hydroxylase function leads to the accumulation of neurotoxic phenylalanine levels in the brain. Severe cognitive and neuronal impairment are observed in untreated/late-diagnosed patients, and even early treated ones are not safe from life-long sequelae. Despite the wealth of knowledge acquired from available disease models, the chronic effect of Phenylketonuria in the brain is still poorly understood and the consequences to the aging brain remain an open question. Thus, there is the need for better predictive models, able to recapitulate specific mechanisms of this disease. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), with their ability to differentiate and self-organize in multiple tissues, might provide a new exciting in vitro platform to model specific PKU-derived neuronal impairment. In this review, we gather what is known about the impact of phenylalanine in the brain of patients and highlight where hiPSC-derived organoids could contribute to the understanding of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice C. Borges
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB – Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kerensa Broersen
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Paula Leandro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, iMed.ULisboa - Research Institute for Medicines, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago G. Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB – Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Tiago G. Fernandes,
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8
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Hong S, Zhu T, Zheng S, Zhan X, Xu F, Gu X, Liang L. Gene expression profiles in the brain of phenylketonuria mouse model reversed by the low phenylalanine diet therapy. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:2405-2414. [PMID: 34524592 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00818-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To gain insight into the potential protective mechanisms of low phenylalanine diet (LPD) in phenylketonuria (PKU), gene expression profiles were studied in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of a PKU mouse model (BTBR-Pahenu2). PKU mice were fed with low Phe diet (LPD-PKU group) and normal diet (PKU group). Wild-type mice were treated with normal diet (WT group) as control. After 12 weeks, we detected gene expression in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the three groups by RNA-sequencing, and then screened the differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) among the groups by bioinformatics analyses. We found that the transcriptional profiles of both cerebral cortex and hippocampus changed markedly between PKU and WT mice. Furthermore, LPD changed the transcriptional profiles of the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus of PKU mice significantly, especially in the cerebral cortex, with overlaps of genes that changed with the disease and altered by LPD treatment. In the cerebral cortex, hundreds of DEGs enriched in a wide spectrum of biological processes, molecular function, and cellular component, including nervous system development, axon development and guidance, calcium ion binding, modulation of chemical synaptic transmission, and regulation of protein kinase activity. In the hippocampus, the overlapping genes were enriched in positive regulation of long term synaptic, negative regulation of excitatory postsynaptic potential, positive regulation of synapse assembly. Our results showed that genes impaired in PKU and then rescued by LPD might indicate the potential protective capability of LPD in the PKU brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Hong
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianwen Zhu
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Simin Zheng
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Zhan
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetic Metabolism, Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665#, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetic Metabolism, Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665#, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xuefan Gu
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetic Metabolism, Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665#, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Lili Liang
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetic Metabolism, Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665#, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Manek R, Zhang YV, Berthelette P, Hossain M, Cornell CS, Gans J, Anarat-Cappillino G, Geller S, Jackson R, Yu D, Singh K, Ryan S, Bangari DS, Xu EY, Kyostio-Moore SRM. Blood phenylalanine reduction reverses gene expression changes observed in a mouse model of phenylketonuria. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22886. [PMID: 34819582 PMCID: PMC8613214 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02267-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) in liver resulting in blood phenylalanine (Phe) elevation and neurotoxicity. A pegylated phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PEG-PAL) metabolizing Phe into cinnamic acid was recently approved as treatment for PKU patients. A potentially one-time rAAV-based delivery of PAH gene into liver to convert Phe into tyrosine (Tyr), a normal way of Phe metabolism, has now also entered the clinic. To understand differences between these two Phe lowering strategies, we evaluated PAH and PAL expression in livers of PAHenu2 mice on brain and liver functions. Both lowered brain Phe and increased neurotransmitter levels and corrected animal behavior. However, PAL delivery required dose optimization, did not elevate brain Tyr levels and resulted in an immune response. The effect of hyperphenylalanemia on liver functions in PKU mice was assessed by transcriptome and proteomic analyses. We observed an elevation in Cyp4a10/14 proteins involved in lipid metabolism and upregulation of genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis. Majority of the gene expression changes were corrected by PAH and PAL delivery though the role of these changes in PKU pathology is currently unclear. Taken together, here we show that blood Phe lowering strategy using PAH or PAL corrects both brain pathology as well as previously unknown lipid metabolism associated pathway changes in liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachna Manek
- Genomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA.
| | - Yao V Zhang
- Genomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Joseph Gans
- Translational Sciences, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | | | - Sarah Geller
- Pre-Development Sciences NA, Analytical R&D, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | | | - Dan Yu
- Genomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | - Kuldeep Singh
- Global Discovery Pathology, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | - Sue Ryan
- Global Discovery Pathology, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
| | | | - Ethan Y Xu
- Translational Sciences, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
- Excision BioTherapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
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10
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van Wegberg A, Evers R, Burgerhof J, van Dam E, Heiner-Fokkema MR, Janssen M, de Vries MC, van Spronsen FJ. Effect of BH4 on blood phenylalanine and tyrosine variations in patients with phenylketonuria. Mol Genet Metab 2021; 133:49-55. [PMID: 33766497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2021.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with phenylketonuria, stability of blood phenylalanine and tyrosine concentrations might influence brain chemistry and therefore patient outcome. This study prospectively investigated the effects of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), as a chaperone of phenylalanine hydroxylase on diurnal and day-to-day variations of blood phenylalanine and tyrosine concentrations. METHODS Blood phenylalanine and tyrosine were measured in dried blood spots (DBS) four times daily for 2 days (fasting, before lunch, before dinner, evening) and once daily (fasting) for 6 days in a randomized cross-over design with a period with BH4 and a period without BH4. The sequence was randomized. Eleven proven BH4 responsive PKU patients participated, 5 of them used protein substitutes during BH4 treatment. Natural protein intake and protein substitute dosing was adjusted during the period without BH4 in order to keep DBS phenylalanine levels within target range. Patients filled out a 3-day food diary during both study periods. Variations of DBS phenylalanine and Tyr were expressed in standard deviations (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV). RESULTS BH4 treatment did not significantly influence day-to-day phenylalanine and tyrosine variations nor diurnal phenylalanine variations, but decreased diurnal tyrosine variations (median SD 17.6 μmol/l, median CV 21.3%, p = 0.01) compared to diet only (median SD 34.2 μmol/l, median CV 43.2%). Consequently, during BH4 treatment diurnal phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio variation was smaller, while fasting tyrosine levels tended to be higher. CONCLUSION BH4 did not impact phenylalanine variation but decreased diurnal tyrosine and phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio variations, possibly explained by less use of protein substitute and increased tyrosine synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amj van Wegberg
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Raf Evers
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jgm Burgerhof
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - E van Dam
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - M R Heiner-Fokkema
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - McH Janssen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - M C de Vries
- Department of Pediatrics, Radboudumc Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - F J van Spronsen
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands.
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11
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Singh K, Cornell CS, Jackson R, Kabiri M, Phipps M, Desai M, Fogle R, Ying X, Anarat-Cappillino G, Geller S, Johnson J, Roberts E, Malley K, Devlin T, DeRiso M, Berthelette P, Zhang YV, Ryan S, Rao S, Thurberg BL, Bangari DS, Kyostio-Moore S. CRISPR/Cas9 generated knockout mice lacking phenylalanine hydroxylase protein as a novel preclinical model for human phenylketonuria. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7254. [PMID: 33790381 PMCID: PMC8012645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86663-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of L-phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism. It is caused by a partial or complete deficiency of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), which is necessary for conversion of Phe to tyrosine (Tyr). This metabolic error results in buildup of Phe and reduction of Tyr concentration in blood and in the brain, leading to neurological disease and intellectual deficits. Patients exhibit retarded body growth, hypopigmentation, hypocholesterolemia and low levels of neurotransmitters. Here we report first attempt at creating a homozygous Pah knock-out (KO) (Hom) mouse model, which was developed in the C57BL/6 J strain using CRISPR/Cas9 where codon 7 (GAG) in Pah gene was changed to a stop codon TAG. We investigated 2 to 6-month-old, male, Hom mice using comprehensive behavioral and biochemical assays, MRI and histopathology. Age and sex-matched heterozygous Pah-KO (Het) mice were used as control mice, as they exhibit enough PAH enzyme activity to provide Phe and Tyr levels comparable to the wild-type mice. Overall, our findings demonstrate that 6-month-old, male Hom mice completely lack PAH enzyme, exhibit significantly higher blood and brain Phe levels, lower levels of brain Tyr and neurotransmitters along with lower myelin content and have significant behavioral deficit. These mice exhibit phenotypes that closely resemble PKU patients such as retarded body growth, cutaneous hypopigmentation, and hypocholesterolemia when compared to the age- and sex-matched Het mice. Altogether, biochemical, behavioral, and pathologic features of this novel mouse model suggest that it can be used as a reliable translational tool for PKU preclinical research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuldeep Singh
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA ,Present Address: WuXi AppTec Inc., 8th Floor, 55 Cambridge Parkway, Cambridge, MA 02142 USA
| | - Cathleen S. Cornell
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGenomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Robert Jackson
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGenomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Mostafa Kabiri
- grid.420214.1Transgenic Model and Technology, Translational In-Vivo Research Platform, Industrie Park Hoechst, Sanofi, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Michael Phipps
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XTransgenic Model and Technology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Mitul Desai
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Bioimaging, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Robert Fogle
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Bioimaging, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Xiaoyou Ying
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Bioimaging, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Gulbenk Anarat-Cappillino
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XPre-Development Sciences NA, Analytical R&D, Sanofi, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Sarah Geller
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XPre-Development Sciences NA, Analytical R&D, Sanofi, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Jennifer Johnson
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Errin Roberts
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Katie Malley
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Tim Devlin
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XTransgenic Model and Technology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Matthew DeRiso
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XTransgenic Model and Technology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Patricia Berthelette
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGenomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Yao V. Zhang
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGenomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Susan Ryan
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Srinivas Rao
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XTranslational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Beth L. Thurberg
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Dinesh S. Bangari
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGlobal Discovery Pathology, Translational In-Vivo Models Research Platform, Sanofi, 5 The Mountain Road, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
| | - Sirkka Kyostio-Moore
- grid.417555.70000 0000 8814 392XGenomic Medicine Unit, Sanofi, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701 USA
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12
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Daly A, Evans S, Pinto A, Ashmore C, Rocha JC, MacDonald A. A 3 Year Longitudinal Prospective Review Examining the Dietary Profile and Contribution Made by Special Low Protein Foods to Energy and Macronutrient Intake in Children with Phenylketonuria. Nutrients 2020; 12:E3153. [PMID: 33076399 PMCID: PMC7602523 DOI: 10.3390/nu12103153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The nutritional composition of special low protein foods (SLPFs) is controlled under EU legislation for 'Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMP)'. They are designed to meet the energy needs of patients unable to eat a normal protein containing diet. In phenylketonuria (PKU), the macronutrient contribution of SLPFs has been inadequately examined. AIM A 3-year longitudinal prospective study investigating the contribution of SLPFs to the macronutrient intake of children with early treated PKU. METHODS 48 children (27 boys) with a mean recruitment age of 9.3 y were studied. Semi-quantitative dietary assessments and food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) were collected three to four times/year for 3 years. RESULTS The mean energy intake provided by SLPFs was 33% (SD ± 8), and this figure was 42% (SD ± 13) for normal food and 21% (SD ± 5) for protein substitutes (PS). SLPFs supplied a mean intake of 40% carbohydrate (SD ± 10), 51% starch (SD ± 18), 21% sugar (SD ± 8), and 38% fat (SD ± 13). Fibre intake met 83% of the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) reference value, with 50% coming from SLPFs with added gums and hydrocolloids. Low protein bread, pasta and milk provided the highest energy contribution, and the intake of sweet SLPFs (e.g., biscuits, cakes, and chocolate) was minimal. Children averaged three portions fruit/vegetable daily, and children aged ≥ 12 y had irregular meal patterns. CONCLUSION SLPFs provide essential energy in phenylalanine restricted diets. Optimising the nutritional quality of SLPFs deserves more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Daly
- Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK; (S.E.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Sharon Evans
- Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK; (S.E.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Alex Pinto
- Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK; (S.E.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Catherine Ashmore
- Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK; (S.E.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Júlio César Rocha
- Nutrition and Metabolism, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal;
- Centre for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Anita MacDonald
- Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH, UK; (S.E.); (A.P.); (C.A.); (A.M.)
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13
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Wiedemann A, Oussalah A, Jeannesson É, Guéant JL, Feillet F. [Phenylketonuria, from diet to gene therapy]. Med Sci (Paris) 2020; 36:725-734. [PMID: 32821049 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for phenylketonuria (PKU) has been improved by neonatal screening and dietary management via a low-phenylalanine diet. This treatment must be followed throughout life, which induces severe compliance problems. Drug treatment with sapropterin (or BH4) has come to help a reduced percentage of patients who respond to this drug. A subcutaneous enzyme therapy is available in the USA and has obtained European marketing authorization, but generates significant side effects, which limits its effectiveness. New therapeutic options for PKU are currently being developed, in particular gene therapy. The purpose of this article is to take stock of the pathophysiology and the various new therapeutic modalities currently in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Wiedemann
- Centre de référence des maladies métaboliques, Service de pédiatrie, CHRU de Nancy, 54000 Nancy, France - Inserm UMR_S 1256 (NGERE, Nutrition Génétique et Exposition aux Risques Environnementaux), Faculté de médecine de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France
| | - Abderrahim Oussalah
- Inserm UMR_S 1256 (NGERE, Nutrition Génétique et Exposition aux Risques Environnementaux), Faculté de médecine de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France - Département de médecine moléculaire, Laboratoire de biochimie et de biologie moléculaire nutrition, CHRU de Nancy, 54000 France
| | - Élise Jeannesson
- Inserm UMR_S 1256 (NGERE, Nutrition Génétique et Exposition aux Risques Environnementaux), Faculté de médecine de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France - Département de médecine moléculaire, Laboratoire de biochimie et de biologie moléculaire nutrition, CHRU de Nancy, 54000 France
| | - Jean-Louis Guéant
- Inserm UMR_S 1256 (NGERE, Nutrition Génétique et Exposition aux Risques Environnementaux), Faculté de médecine de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France - Département de médecine moléculaire, Laboratoire de biochimie et de biologie moléculaire nutrition, CHRU de Nancy, 54000 France
| | - François Feillet
- Centre de référence des maladies métaboliques, Service de pédiatrie, CHRU de Nancy, 54000 Nancy, France - Inserm UMR_S 1256 (NGERE, Nutrition Génétique et Exposition aux Risques Environnementaux), Faculté de médecine de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France
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14
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Berguig GY, Martin NT, Creer AY, Xie L, Zhang L, Murphy R, Pacheco G, Bullens S, Olbertz J, Weng HH. Of mice and men: Plasma phenylalanine reduction in PKU corrects neurotransmitter pathways in the brain. Mol Genet Metab 2019; 128:422-430. [PMID: 31648944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In phenylketonuria (PKU), mutations of the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene decrease the ability of PAH to convert phenylalanine (Phe) to tyrosine (Tyr), resulting in Phe accumulation in the blood and brain and disruption of neurotransmitter (NT) biosynthesis and metabolism. The following translational study explored the relationship between pegvaliase-mediated Phe correction in plasma and the NT biosynthesis and metabolism pathway in mice and humans with PKU. Lower plasma Phe levels were associated with normalization of the NT biosynthesis pathway which correlated with an improvement in inattention symptoms in subjects with PKU.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lin Xie
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | | | - Ryan Murphy
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Joy Olbertz
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA, USA
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15
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Gassió R, González MJ, Sans O, Artuch R, Sierra C, Ormazabal A, Cuadras D, Campistol J. Prevalence of sleep disorders in early-treated phenylketonuric children and adolescents. Correlation with dopamine and serotonin status. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2019; 23:685-691. [PMID: 31522993 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Phenylketonuric (PKU) patients are a population at risk for sleep disorders due to deficits in neurotransmitter synthesis. We aimed to study the prevalence of sleep disorders in early-treated PKU children and adolescents and assessed correlations with dopamine and serotonin status. We compared 32 PKU patients (16 females, 16 males; mean age 12 years), with a healthy control group of 32 subjects (16 females, 16 males; mean age 11.9 years). 19 PKU patients were under dietary treatment and 13 on tetrahydrobiopterin therapy. Concurrent phenylalanine (Phe), index of dietary control and variability in Phe in the last year, tyrosine, tryptophan, prolactin, and ferritin in plasma, platelet serotonin concentration, and melatonin, homovanillic and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid excretion in urine were analyzed. Sleep was assessed using Bruni's Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children. Sleep disorders were similar in both groups, 15.6% in control group and 12.5% in PKU group. In PKU patients, no correlations were found with peripheral biomarkers of neurotransmitter synthesis nor different Phe parameters, 43.3% had low melatonin excretion and 43.8% low platelet serotonin concentrations. Despite melatonin and serotonin deficits in early-treated PKU patients, the prevalence of sleep disorders is similar to that of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Gassió
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - María Julieta González
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.
| | - Oscar Sans
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Pediatric Sleep Unit, Neurophysiology Division, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Center for Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Sierra
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Aida Ormazabal
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Center for Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Cuadras
- Methodological and Statistical Advice Service for Research, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Jaume Campistol
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Center for Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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16
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Pilotto A, Blau N, Leks E, Schulte C, Deuschl C, Zipser C, Piel D, Freisinger P, Gramer G, Kölker S, Haas D, Burgard P, Nawroth P, Georg H, Scheffler K, Berg D, Trefz F. Cerebrospinal fluid biogenic amines depletion and brain atrophy in adult patients with phenylketonuria. J Inherit Metab Dis 2019; 42:398-406. [PMID: 30706953 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Biogenic amines synthesis in phenylketonuria (PKU) patients with high phenylalanine (Phe) concentration is thought to be impaired due to inhibition of tyrosine and tryptophan hydroxylases and competition with amino acids at the blood-brain barrier. Dopamine and serotonin deficits might explain brain damage and progressive neuropsychiatric impairment in adult PKU patients. Ten early treated adult PKU patients (mean age 38.2 years) and 15 age-matched controls entered the study. Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Phe, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 3,4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine (l-DOPA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) were analyzed. Voxel-based morphometry statistical nonparametric mapping was used to test the age-corrected correlation between gray matter atrophy and CSF biogenic amines levels. 5-HIAA and 5-HTP were significantly reduced in PKU patients compared to controls. Significant negative correlations were found between CSF 5-HIAA, HVA, and 5-HTP and Phe levels. A decrease in 5-HIAA and 5-HTP concentrations correlated with precuneus and frontal atrophy, respectively. Lower HVA levels correlated with occipital atrophy. Biogenic amines deficits correlate with specific brain atrophy patterns in adult PKU patients, in line with serotonin and dopamine projections. These findings may support a more rigorous Phe control in adult PKU to prevent neurotransmitter depletion and accelerated brain damage due to aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pilotto
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute of Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Parkinson's Disease Rehabilitation Centre, FERB ONLUS S. Isidoro Hospital, Trescore Balneario, Italy
| | - Nenad Blau
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Edytha Leks
- Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Schulte
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute of Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurodegeneration, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Deuschl
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute of Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurodegeneration, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Carl Zipser
- Department of Neurology and Stroke, and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - David Piel
- Department of Endocrinology, Internal Medicine I, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Gwendolyn Gramer
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kölker
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dorothea Haas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Burgard
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Nawroth
- Department of Endocrinology, Internal Medicine I, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hoffmann Georg
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Scheffler
- Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Magnetic Resonance Centre, Max-Planck-Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniela Berg
- Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute of Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurodegeneration, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University-Hospital-Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Friedrich Trefz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division for Neuropediatrics and Metabolic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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17
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Ashe K, Kelso W, Farrand S, Panetta J, Fazio T, De Jong G, Walterfang M. Psychiatric and Cognitive Aspects of Phenylketonuria: The Limitations of Diet and Promise of New Treatments. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:561. [PMID: 31551819 PMCID: PMC6748028 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a recessive disorder of phenylalanine metabolism due to mutations in the gene for phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). Reduced PAH activity results in significant hyperphenylalaninemia, which leads to alterations in cerebral myelin and protein synthesis, as well as reduced levels of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline in the brain. When untreated, brain development is grossly disrupted and significant intellectual impairment and behavioral disturbance occur. The advent of neonatal heel prick screening has allowed for diagnosis at birth, and the institution of a phenylalanine restricted diet. Dietary treatment, particularly when maintained across neurodevelopment and well into adulthood, has resulted in markedly improved outcomes at a cognitive and psychiatric level for individuals with PKU. However, few individuals can maintain full dietary control lifelong, and even with good control, an elevated risk remains of-in particular-mood, anxiety, and attentional disorders across the lifespan. Increasingly, dietary recommendations focus on maintaining continuous dietary treatment lifelong to optimize psychiatric and cognitive outcomes, although the effect of long-term protein restricted diets on brain function remains unknown. While psychiatric illness is very common in adult PKU populations, very little data exist to guide clinicians on optimal treatment. The advent of new treatments that do not require restrictive dietary management, such as the enzyme therapy Pegvaliase, holds the promise of allowing patients a relatively normal diet alongside optimized mental health and cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Killian Ashe
- Neuropsychiatry Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Wendy Kelso
- Neuropsychiatry Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Farrand
- Neuropsychiatry Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Julie Panetta
- Statewide Adult Metabolic Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tim Fazio
- Statewide Adult Metabolic Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gerard De Jong
- Statewide Adult Metabolic Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Walterfang
- Neuropsychiatry Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, University of Melbourne and North-Western Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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18
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González MJ, Polo MR, Ripollés P, Gassió R, Ormazabal A, Sierra C, Roura RC, Artuch R, Campistol J. White matter microstructural damage in early treated phenylketonuric patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2018; 13:188. [PMID: 30367646 PMCID: PMC6203973 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-018-0912-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite dietary intervention, individuals with early treated phenylketonuria (ETPKU) could present neurocognitive deficits and white matter (WM) abnormalities. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the microstructural integrity of WM pathways across the whole brain in a cohort of paediatric ETPKU patients compared with healthy controls (HCs), by collecting DTI-MRI (diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging) data and diffusion values (mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD) and fractional anisotropy (FA)). METHODS DTI-MRI data and diffusion values (MD, RD, FA) from WM tracts across the whole brain were analized using Tract Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS), in 15 paediatrics TPKU patients (median age: 12 years) and compared with 11 HCs. Areas showing abnormal values in the patient group were correlated (Pearson) with age, lifetime Phe values, last year median and mean Phe, concurrent Phe values in plasma, urine neurotransmitters status biomarkers, and with a processing speed task. RESULTS ETPKU showed bilaterally decreased MD values compared with HCs in the body and splenium of the corpus callosum, superior longitudinal fasciculus, corona radiata and in the posterior limb of the internal capsule. RD values followed a similar pattern, although decreased RD values in PKU patients were also found in the anterior limb of the internal capsule and in the cerebral peduncle. Decreased MD and RD values within the aforementioned regions had significant negative correlations with age, last year median and mean Phe and concurrent Phe values. No correlations were found with monoamines in urine or processing speed task. CONCLUSIONS ETPKU patients showed MD and RD values significantly decreased across the whole brain when compared with HCs, and this damage was associated with high Phe values and the age of patients. Despite this microstructural damage, no affectation in processing speed was observed in patients with good metabolic control. DTI-MRI sequences could be used as a technique to quantify WM damage that is difficult to be detect in T1 or T2-weighted images, but also to quantify damage of WM through the follow up of patients with poor metabolic control in prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Julieta González
- Neuropediatric Department, PKU Follow Up Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu (IRSJD), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mónica Rebollo Polo
- Neuroimaging Section, HSJD, IRSJD, Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Ripollés
- Neuroimaging Section, HSJD, IRSJD, Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Psychology, New York University, 6 Washington Place, 10003 New York, USA
| | - Rosa Gassió
- Neuropediatric Department, PKU Follow Up Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu (IRSJD), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aída Ormazabal
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, HSJD, IRSJD, UB, (CIBERER-ISCIII), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Sierra
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, HSJD, IRSJD, UB, (CIBERER-ISCIII), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Colomé Roura
- Neuropediatric Department, PKU Follow Up Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu (IRSJD), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, HSJD, IRSJD, UB, (CIBERER-ISCIII), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Campistol
- Neuropediatric Department, PKU Follow Up Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu (IRSJD), Passeig Sant Joan de Deu 2, Postal code, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
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