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Häberle J, Siri B, Dionisi-Vici C. Quo vadis ureagenesis disorders? A journey from 90 years ago into the future. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024. [PMID: 38837457 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The pathway of ammonia disposal in the mammalian organism has been described in 1932 as a metabolic cycle present in the liver in different compartments. In 1958, the first human disorder affecting this pathway was described as a genetic condition leading to cognitive impairment and constant abnormalities of amino acid metabolism. Since then, defects in all enzymes and transporters of the urea cycle have been described, referring to them as primary urea cycle disorders causing primary hyperammonemia. In addition, there is a still increasing list of conditions that impact on the function of the urea cycle by various mechanisms, hereby leading to secondary hyperammonemia. Despite great advances in understanding the molecular background and the biochemical specificities of both primary and secondary hyperammonemias, there remain many open questions: we do not fully understand the pathophysiology in many of the conditions; we do not always understand the highly variable clinical course of affected patients; we clearly appreciate the need for novel and improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This study does look back to the beginning of the urea cycle (hi)story, briefly describes the journey through past decades, hereby illustrating advancements and knowledge gaps, and gives examples for the extremely broad perspective imminent to some of the defects of ureagenesis and allied conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Häberle
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Siri
- Division of Metabolic Diseases and Hepatology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Dionisi-Vici
- Division of Metabolic Diseases and Hepatology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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2
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Morley-Fletcher S, Gaetano A, Gao V, Gatta E, Van Camp G, Bouwalerh H, Thomas P, Nicoletti F, Maccari S. Postpartum Oxytocin Treatment via the Mother Reprograms Long-Term Behavioral Disorders Induced by Early Life Stress on the Plasma and Brain Metabolome in the Rat. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3014. [PMID: 38474260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25053014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The rat model of perinatal stress (PRS), in which exposure of pregnant dams to restraint stress reduces maternal behavior, is characterized by a metabolic profile that is reminiscent of the "metabolic syndrome". We aimed to identify plasma metabolomic signatures linked to long-term programming induced by PRS in aged male rats. This study was conducted in the plasma and frontal cortex. We also investigated the reversal effect of postpartum carbetocin (Cbt) on these signatures, along with its impact on deficits in cognitive, social, and exploratory behavior. We found that PRS induced long-lasting changes in biomarkers of secondary bile acid metabolism in the plasma and glutathione metabolism in the frontal cortex. Cbt treatment demonstrated disease-dependent effects by reversing the metabolite alterations. The metabolomic signatures of PRS were associated with long-term cognitive and emotional alterations alongside endocrinological disturbances. Our findings represent the first evidence of how early life stress may alter the metabolomic profile in aged individuals, thereby increasing vulnerability to CNS disorders. This raises the intriguing prospect that the pharmacological activation of oxytocin receptors soon after delivery through the mother may rectify these alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Morley-Fletcher
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Alessandra Gaetano
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Vance Gao
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Eleonora Gatta
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Gilles Van Camp
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Hammou Bouwalerh
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Pierre Thomas
- INSERM (U-1172) Laboratoire Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, équipe Plasticity & Subjectivity, Plateforme CURE, Hôpital Fontan, CHU de Lille, Psychiatry Department, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", University Sapienza of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Stefania Maccari
- Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, GlycoStress Team, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Université de Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- Department of Science and Medical-Surgical Biotechnology, University Sapienza of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
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3
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Duff C, Alexander IE, Baruteau J. Gene therapy for urea cycle defects: An update from historical perspectives to future prospects. J Inherit Metab Dis 2024; 47:50-62. [PMID: 37026568 PMCID: PMC10953416 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Urea cycle defects (UCDs) are severe inherited metabolic diseases with high unmet needs which present a permanent risk of hyperammonaemic decompensation and subsequent acute death or neurological sequelae, when treated with conventional dietetic and medical therapies. Liver transplantation is currently the only curative option, but has the potential to be supplanted by highly effective gene therapy interventions without the attendant need for life-long immunosuppression or limitations imposed by donor liver supply. Over the last three decades, pioneering genetic technologies have been explored to circumvent the consequences of UCDs, improve quality of life and long-term outcomes: adenoviral vectors, adeno-associated viral vectors, gene editing, genome integration and non-viral technology with messenger RNA. In this review, we present a summarised view of this historical path, which includes some seminal milestones of the gene therapy's epic. We provide an update about the state of the art of gene therapy technologies for UCDs and the current advantages and pitfalls driving future directions for research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Duff
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Ian E. Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of Sydney and Sydney Children's Hospitals NetworkWestmeadNew South WalesAustralia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent HealthThe University of SydneyWestmeadNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Julien Baruteau
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
- Metabolic Medicine DepartmentGreat Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
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4
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Gurung S, Karamched S, Perocheau D, Seunarine KK, Baldwin T, Alrashidi H, Touramanidou L, Duff C, Elkhateeb N, Stepien KM, Sharma R, Morris A, Hartley T, Crowther L, Grunewald S, Cleary M, Mundy H, Chakrapani A, Batzios S, Davison J, Footitt E, Tuschl K, Lachmann R, Murphy E, Santra S, Uudelepp ML, Yeo M, Finn PF, Cavedon A, Siddiqui S, Rice L, Martini PGV, Frassetto A, Heales S, Mills PB, Gissen P, Clayden JD, Clark CA, Eaton S, Kalber TL, Baruteau J. The incidence of movement disorder increases with age and contrasts with subtle and limited neuroimaging abnormalities in argininosuccinic aciduria. J Inherit Metab Dis 2023. [PMID: 38044746 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) is integral to the urea cycle detoxifying neurotoxic ammonia and the nitric oxide (NO) biosynthesis cycle. Inherited ASL deficiency causes argininosuccinic aciduria (ASA), a rare disease with hyperammonemia and NO deficiency. Patients present with developmental delay, epilepsy and movement disorder, associated with NO-mediated downregulation of central catecholamine biosynthesis. A neurodegenerative phenotype has been proposed in ASA. To better characterise this neurodegenerative phenotype in ASA, we conducted a retrospective study in six paediatric and adult metabolic centres in the UK in 2022. We identified 60 patients and specifically looked for neurodegeneration-related symptoms: movement disorder such as ataxia, tremor and dystonia, hypotonia/fatigue and abnormal behaviour. We analysed neuroimaging with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in an individual with ASA with movement disorders. We assessed conventional and DTI MRI alongside single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT) with dopamine analogue radionuclide 123 I-ioflupane, in Asl-deficient mice treated by hASL mRNA with normalised ureagenesis. Movement disorders in ASA appear in the second and third decades of life, becoming more prevalent with ageing and independent from the age of onset of hyperammonemia. Neuroimaging can show abnormal DTI features affecting both grey and white matter, preferentially basal ganglia. ASA mouse model with normalised ureagenesis did not recapitulate these DTI findings and showed normal 123 I-ioflupane SPECT and cerebral dopamine metabolomics. Altogether these findings support the pathophysiology of a late-onset movement disorder with cell-autonomous functional central catecholamine dysregulation but without or limited neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons, making these symptoms amenable to targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Gurung
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Saketh Karamched
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dany Perocheau
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kiran K Seunarine
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tom Baldwin
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Haya Alrashidi
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Loukia Touramanidou
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Duff
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nour Elkhateeb
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Karolina M Stepien
- Mark Holland Metabolic Unit, Adult Inherited Metabolic Diseases Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Reena Sharma
- Mark Holland Metabolic Unit, Adult Inherited Metabolic Diseases Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Andrew Morris
- Willink Unit, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas Hartley
- Willink Unit, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester, UK
| | - Laura Crowther
- Willink Unit, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Maureen Cleary
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Helen Mundy
- Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas's Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Spyros Batzios
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - James Davison
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Footitt
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Karin Tuschl
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Robin Lachmann
- Charles Dent Metabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Elaine Murphy
- Charles Dent Metabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Saikat Santra
- Clinical IMD, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Mildrid Yeo
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Lisa Rice
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Simon Heales
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Philippa B Mills
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Gissen
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Jonathan D Clayden
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher A Clark
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tammy L Kalber
- Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julien Baruteau
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Czarnecka AM, Obara-Michlewska M, Wesół-Kucharska D, Greczan M, Kaczor M, Książyk J, Rokicki D, Zielińska M. S100B Protein but Not 3-Nitrotyrosine Positively Correlates with Plasma Ammonia in Patients with Inherited Hyperammonemias: A New Promising Diagnostic Tool? J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062411. [PMID: 36983411 PMCID: PMC10056255 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with inherited hyperammonemias often present developmental and intellectual deficiencies which are likely to be exaggerated by hyperammonemia episodes in long-term outcomes. In order to find a new, systemic marker common to the course of congenital hyperammonemias, we decided to measure the plasma level of S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B), which is associated with cerebral impairment. Further, we analyzed three mechanistically diverged but linked with oxidative-nitrosative stress biochemical parameters: 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), a measure of plasma proteins' nitration; advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), a measure of protein oxidation; and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, a measure of anti-oxidative enzymatic capacity. The plasma biomarkers listed above were determined for the first time in congenital hyperammonemia. Also, the level of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators (i.e., IL-12, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) and chemokines (IP-10, MCP-1, MIG, and RANTES) were quantified. S100B was positively correlated with plasma ammonia level, while noticeable levels of circulating 3-NT in some of the patients' plasma did not correlate with ammonia concentration. Overall, the linear correlation between ammonia and S100B but not standard oxidative stress-related markers offers a unique perspective for the future identification and monitoring of neurological deficits risk-linked with hyperammonemia episodes in patients with inherited hyperammonemias. The S100B measure may support the development of therapeutic targets and clinical monitoring in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Czarnecka
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Obara-Michlewska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Wesół-Kucharska
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition, and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Milena Greczan
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition, and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kaczor
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition, and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Janusz Książyk
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition, and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dariusz Rokicki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nutrition, and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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Feigenbaum A. Challenges of managing ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency in female heterozygotes. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2022; 33:100941. [PMID: 36620389 PMCID: PMC9817477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2022.100941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are a group of rare inherited metabolic conditions caused by enzyme deficiency within the hepatic ammonia detoxification pathway. Ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, the most frequently occurring UCD, is an X-linked condition known to yield a vastly heterogeneous phenotype, with variable onset and presentation across the lifespan. Here, we introduce a series of 4 original cases, published as part of this special supplement, that illustrate learnings for the care of heterozygous females with OTC deficiency, including challenges with diagnosis, potential triggers of hyperammonemia, cognitive effects, and approaches to disease management, including peripartum care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Feigenbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, USA,University of California, San Diego, USA,Corresponding author at: Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, Division of Genetics, 3020 Children's Way #5031, San Diego, CA 92123, USA.
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7
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Benefits of tailored disease management in improving tremor, white matter hyperintensities, and liver enzymes in a child with heterozygous X-linked ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2022; 33:100891. [PMID: 36620387 PMCID: PMC9817482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2022.100891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the case of a 19-month-old girl with late-onset ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency initially referred to gastroenterology for intermittent vomiting lasting a year and abnormal liver enzymes (AST 730 U/L [reference range 26-55 U/L]; ALT 1213 U/L [reference range 11-30 U/L]) without hepatomegaly. While the patient was hospitalized for liver biopsy, intermittent tremors of the upper extremities with varying severity were noted. The patient was presumed to have hyperammonemia secondary to acute liver failure and was discharged after 5 days; follow-up monitoring led to readmission 7 days later. A brain MRI showed nonspecific bilateral pericallosal and bifrontal white matter FLAIR hyperintensities. These findings raised suspicion for a metabolic disease and prompted a genetics consultation. After inconclusive biochemical testing and worsening clinical status, rapid whole genome sequencing results were obtained identifying a novel, de novo, likely pathogenic, variant c.608C > T (p.Ser203Phe) in the OTC gene. The patient was promptly started on an oral nitrogen scavenger, citrulline supplementation, and protein restriction. Ammonia and glutamine levels normalized within 1 month of treatment and have stayed within the goal ranges with continued tailoring of treatment. Her parents noted resolution of vomiting and improved mood stability. Liver enzymes normalized after 2 months of treatment. The tremor, identified as asterixis, improved and a repeat brain MRI 3 months after the initial imaging showed near-complete resolution of previous white matter hyperintensities.
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Key Words
- ALT, alanine transaminase
- AST, aspartate aminotransferase
- Asterixis
- BASC-3, Behavior Assessment System for Children
- BCAA, branched-chain amino acid
- FLAIR, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery
- GGT, gamma-glutamyl transferase
- Late onset
- MRI, magnetic resonance imaging
- MRS, magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Manifesting heterozygote
- OTC, ornithine transcarbamylase
- Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
- PT, prothrombin time
- Partial onset
- TID, 3 times a day
- UCD, urea cycle disorder
- Urea cycle disorder
- WPPSI-IV, Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence
- X linked
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Zheng Y, Xu Q, Jin Q, Du Y, Yan J, Gao H, Zheng H. Urinary and faecal metabolic characteristics in APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease with and without cognitive decline. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 604:130-136. [PMID: 35303679 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been considered to be a systematic metabolic disorder, but little information is available about metabolic changes in the urine and feces. In this study, we investigated urinary and faecal metabolic profiles in amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) mice at 3 and 9 months of age (3 M and 9 M) and age-matched wild-type (WT) mice by using 1H NMR-based metabolomics, and aimed to explore changes in metabolic pathways during amyloid pathology progression and identify potential metabolite biomarkers at earlier stage of AD. The results show that learning and memory abilities were impaired in APP/PS1 mice relative to WT mice at 9 M, but not at 3 M. However, metabolomics analysis demonstrates that AD disrupted metabolic phenotypes in the urine and feces of APP/PS1 mice at both 3 M and 9 M, including amino acid metabolism, microbial metabolism and energy metabolism. In addition, several potential metabolite biomarkers were identified for discriminating AD and WT mice prior to cognitive decline with the AUC values from 0.755 to 0.971, such as taurine, hippurate, urea and methylamine in the urine as well as alanine, leucine and valine in the feces. Therefore, our results not only confirmed AD as a metabolic disorder, but also contributed to the identification of potential biomarkers at earlier stage of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Zheng
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Qingqing Xu
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Qihao Jin
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yao Du
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Junjie Yan
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hongchang Gao
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Hong Zheng
- Institute of Metabonomics & Medical NMR, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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9
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The current pediatric perspective on type B and C hepatic encephalopathy. Anal Biochem 2022; 643:114576. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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10
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Golubiani G, Lagani V, Solomonia R, Müller M. Metabolomic Fingerprint of Mecp2-Deficient Mouse Cortex: Evidence for a Pronounced Multi-Facetted Metabolic Component in Rett Syndrome. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092494. [PMID: 34572143 PMCID: PMC8472238 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Using unsupervised metabolomics, we defined the complex metabolic conditions in the cortex of a mouse model of Rett syndrome (RTT). RTT, which represents a cause of mental and cognitive disabilities in females, results in profound cognitive impairment with autistic features, motor disabilities, seizures, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiorespiratory irregularities. Typical RTT originates from mutations in the X-chromosomal methyl-CpG-binding-protein-2 (Mecp2) gene, which encodes a transcriptional modulator. It then causes a deregulation of several target genes and metabolic alterations in the nervous system and peripheral organs. We identified 101 significantly deregulated metabolites in the Mecp2-deficient cortex of adult male mice; 68 were increased and 33 were decreased compared to wildtypes. Pathway analysis identified 31 mostly upregulated metabolic pathways, in particular carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, key metabolic mitochondrial/extramitochondrial pathways, and lipid metabolism. In contrast, neurotransmitter-signaling is dampened. This metabolic fingerprint of the Mecp2-deficient cortex of severely symptomatic mice provides further mechanistic insights into the complex RTT pathogenesis. The deregulated pathways that were identified—in particular the markedly affected amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism—confirm a complex and multifaceted metabolic component in RTT, which in turn signifies putative therapeutic targets. Furthermore, the deregulated key metabolites provide a choice of potential biomarkers for a more detailed rating of disease severity and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gocha Golubiani
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Zentrum Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, D-37130 Göttingen, Germany;
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Vincenzo Lagani
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Revaz Solomonia
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Michael Müller
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Zentrum Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, D-37130 Göttingen, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-551-39-22933
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11
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De Bruyne P, Verloo P, Van Hove JLK, de Hemptinne B, Vande Velde S, Van Winckel M, Van Biervliet S, De Bruyne R. Successful liver transplantation in hyperornithinemia-hyperammonemia-homocitrullinuria syndrome: Case report. Pediatr Transplant 2021; 25:e13943. [PMID: 33314525 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HHH syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of the urea cycle, caused by a deficient mitochondrial ornithine transporter. We report the first successful liver transplantation in HHH syndrome performed in a seven-year-old boy. The patient presented at 4 weeks of age with hyperammonemic coma. The plasma amino acid profile was suggestive of HHH syndrome, and the diagnosis was confirmed when sequencing of the SLC25A15 gene identified two mutations p.R275Q and p.A76D. Although immediate intervention resulted in normalization of plasma ammonia levels within 24 hours, he developed cerebral edema, coma, convulsions, and subsequent neurological sequelae. Metabolic control was difficult requiring severe protein restriction and continued treatment with sodium benzoate and L-arginine. Despite substantial developmental delay, he was referred to our center for liver transplantation because of poor metabolic control. Following cadaveric split liver transplantation, there was complete normalization of his plasma ammonia and plasma amino acid levels under a normal protein-containing diet. This excellent metabolic control was associated with a markedly improved general condition, mood and behavior, and small developmental achievements. Twelve years after liver transplantation, the patient has a stable cognitive impairment without progression of spastic diplegia. CONCLUSION This first case of liver transplantation in HHH syndrome demonstrates that this procedure is a therapeutic option for HHH patients with difficult metabolic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline De Bruyne
- Department of Internal Medicine and Genetics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verloo
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Johan L K Van Hove
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bernard de Hemptinne
- Department of General, Hepatobiliary and Liver Transplantation Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Saskia Vande Velde
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Myriam Van Winckel
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stephanie Van Biervliet
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ruth De Bruyne
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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12
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Tinkov AA, Skalnaya MG, Skalny AV. Serum trace element and amino acid profile in children with cerebral palsy. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 64:126685. [PMID: 33249374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2020.126685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existing data demonstrate that both trace elements and amino acids play a significant role in neurodevelopment and brain functioning. Certain studies have demonstrated alteration of micronutrient status in children with cerebral palsy, although multiple inconsistencies exist. THE OBJECTIVE of the present study was to assess serum trace element and mineral, as well as amino acid levels in children with cerebral palsy. METHODS 71 children with cerebral palsy (39 boys and 32 girls, 5.7 ± 2.3 y.o.) and 84 healthy children (51 boys and 33 girls, 5.4 ± 2.3 y.o.) were enrolled in the present study. Serum trace element and mineral levels were assessed using inductively-coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (ICP-MS). Amino acid profile was evaluated by means of high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). RESULTS Children with cerebral palsy are characterized by significantly lower Cu and Zn levels by 6% and 8%, whereas serum I concentration exceeded the control values by 7%. A tendency to increased serum Mn and Se levels was also observed in patients with cerebral palsy. Serum citrulline, leucine, tyrosine, and valine levels were 15 %, 23 %, 15 %, and 11 % lower than those in healthy controls. Nearly twofold lower levels of serum proline were accompanied by a 44 % elevation of hydroxyproline concentrations when compared to the control values. In multiple regression model serum I, Zn, and hydroxyproline levels were found to be independently associated with the presence of cerebral palsy. Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between Cu, Mn, Se, I, and Zn levels with hydroxyproline and citrulline concentrations. CONCLUSION The observed alterations in trace element and amino acid metabolism may contribute to neurological deterioration in cerebral palsy. However, the cross-sectional design of the study does not allow to estimate the causal trilateral relationships between cerebral palsy, altered trace element, and amino acid metabolism.
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13
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Sen K, Whitehead MT, Gropman AL. Multimodal imaging in urea cycle-related neurological disease - What can imaging after hyperammonemia teach us? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 5:87-95. [PMID: 33344172 PMCID: PMC7739971 DOI: 10.3233/trd-200048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urea cycle-related brain disease may take on variable neuroimaging manifestations, ranging from normal to abnormal with or without a signature appearance. In the past, we have described the usefulness of multimodal imaging in identifying biomarkers of neuronal injury in UCD patients. In this study, we report unique findings in an adolescent male with neonatal-onset OTC deficiency after an episode of hyperammonemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Multiplanar, multisequence MR imaging (T1WI, T2WI, T2 FLAIR, diffusion weighted images and gradient echo) of the brain was performed on seven separate occasions over the course following the acute illness; first five exams were performed within 28 days of admission and the final two exams were performed approximately 3 and 5 months later. RESULTS 1.The initial MR revealed increased signal on T2WI in the basal ganglia, claustrum and frontoparietal white matter; which remained stable over time. By the 5th exam, signal changes had developed in frontal cortex; reflecting permanent injury. 2. DTI tractography of the corticospinal tracts displayed revealed diminution of the number of projectional and commissural fibers over time. 3. Blood flow measurements demonstrated hypoperfusion on the fifth exams followed by hyperperfusion on the final two studies. 4. MR spectroscopy demonstrated that glutamine was elevated during hyperammonemia with myoinositol reduction, reflecting osmotic buffering. CONCLUSION This particular multimodal magnetic resonance neuroimaging showed novel, temporally specific manifestations over the disease course in OTC deficiency. This prospective imaging study expands our understanding of the effect of hyperammonemia on the structure and biochemistry of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuntal Sen
- Division of Neurogenetics and Developmental Pediatrics, Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Matthew T Whitehead
- Department of Radiology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.,George Washington University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Andrea L Gropman
- Division of Neurogenetics and Developmental Pediatrics, Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.,George Washington University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
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14
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Longitudinal osmotic and neurometabolic changes in young rats with chronic cholestatic liver disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7536. [PMID: 32372057 PMCID: PMC7200786 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64416-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Type C hepatic encephalopathy (type C HE) is increasingly suspected in children with chronic liver disease (CLD), and believed to underlie long-term neurocognitive difficulties. The molecular underpinnings of type C HE in both adults and children are incompletely understood. In the present study we combined the experimental advantages of in vivo high field 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy with immunohistochemistry to follow longitudinally over 8 weeks the neurometabolic changes in the hippocampus of animals having undergone bile duct ligation as pups. Rats who develop CLD early in life displayed pronounced neurometabolic changes in the hippocampus characterized by a progressive increase in glutamine concentration which correlated with plasma ammonia levels and a rapid decrease in brain myo-inositol. Other neurometabolic findings included a decrease in other organic osmolytes (taurine, choline-containing compounds and creatine), ascorbate and glutamate. At the cellular level, we observed an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and aquaporin 4 (AQP4) expression in the hippocampus at 4 weeks post bile duct ligation (BDL), together with astrocytic morphological alterations. These findings differ from observations in the brain of adult rats following BDL, and are in keeping with the commonly accepted theory of age-dependent vulnerability.
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15
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Anderson A, Gropman A, Le Mons C, Stratakis C, Gandjbakhche A. Evaluation of neurocognitive function of prefrontal cortex in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Mol Genet Metab 2020; 129:207-212. [PMID: 31952925 PMCID: PMC7416502 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2019.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Hyperammonia due to ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) can cause a range of deficiencies in domains of executive function and working memory. Only a few fMRI studies have focused on neuroimaging data in a population with OTCD. Yet, there is a need for monitoring the disease progression and neurocognitive function in this population. In this study, we used a non-invasive neuroimaging technique, functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), to examine the hemodynamics of prefrontal cortex (PFC) based on neural activation in an OTCD population. Using fNIRS, we measured the activation in PFC of the participants while performing the Stroop task. Behavioral assessment such as reaction time and correct response were recorded. We investigated the difference in behavioral measures as well as brain activation in left and right PFC in patients with OTCD and controls. Results revealed a distinction in left PFC activation between controls and patients with OTCD, where control subjects showed higher task related activation increase. Subjects with OTCD also exhibited bilateral increase in PFC activation. There was no significant difference in response time or correct response between the two groups. Our findings suggest the alterations in neurocognitive function of PFC in OTCD compared to the controls despite the behavioral profiles exhibiting no such differences. This is a first study using fNIRS to examine a neurocognitive function in OTCD population and can provide a novel insight into the screening of OTCD progression and examining neurocognitive changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrouz Anderson
- NIH, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America
| | - Andrea Gropman
- Children's National Medical Center, Division of Neurogenetics and Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics, Washington, DC 20010, United States of America
| | - Cynthia Le Mons
- National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation, Pasadena, California 91105
| | - Constantine Stratakis
- NIH, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America
| | - Amir Gandjbakhche
- NIH, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America.
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16
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Jain-Ghai S, Joffe AR, Bond GY, Siriwardena K, Chan A, Yap JYK, Hajihosseini M, Dinu IA, Acton BV, Robertson CMT. Pre-school neurocognitive and functional outcomes after liver transplant in children with early onset urea cycle disorders, maple syrup urine disease, and propionic acidemia: An inception cohort matched-comparison study. JIMD Rep 2020; 52:43-54. [PMID: 32154059 PMCID: PMC7052695 DOI: 10.1002/jmd2.12095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urea cycle disorders (UCD) and organic acid disorders classically present in the neonatal period. In those who survive, developmental delay is common with continued risk of regression. Liver transplantation improves the biochemical abnormality and patient survival is good. We report the neurocognitive and functional outcomes post‐transplant for nine UCD, three maple syrup urine disease, and one propionic acidemia patient. Methods Thirteen inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) patients were individually one‐to‐two matched to 26 non‐IEM patients. All patients received liver transplant. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare full‐scale intelligence‐quotient (FSIQ) and Adaptive Behavior Assessment System‐II General Adaptive Composite (GAC) at age 4.5 years. Dichotomous outcomes were reported as percentages. Results FSIQ and GAC median [IQR] was 75 [54, 82.5] and 62.0 [47.5, 83] in IEM compared with 94.5 [79.8, 103.5] and 88.0 [74.3, 97.5] in matched patients (P‐value <.001), respectively. Of IEM patients, 6 (46%) had intellectual disability (FSIQ and GAC <70), 5 (39%) had autism spectrum disorder, and 1/13 (8%) had cerebral palsy, compared to 1/26 (4%), 0, 0, and 0% of matched patients, respectively. In the subgroup of nine with UCDs, FSIQ (64[54, 79]), and GAC (56[45, 75]) were lower than matched patients (100.5 [98.5, 101] and 95 [86.5, 99.5]), P = .005 and .003, respectively. Conclusion This study evaluated FSIQ and GAC at age 4.5 years through a case‐comparison between IEM and matched non‐IEM patients post‐liver transplantation. The neurocognitive and functional outcomes remained poor in IEM patients, particularly in UCD. This information should be included when counselling parents regarding post‐transplant outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailly Jain-Ghai
- Department of Medical Genetics University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Ari R Joffe
- Department of Pediatrics University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Gwen Y Bond
- Department of Pediatrics Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Komudi Siriwardena
- Department of Medical Genetics University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Alicia Chan
- Department of Medical Genetics University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Jason Y K Yap
- University of Melbourne The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne Australia
| | - Morteza Hajihosseini
- School of Public Health (Biostatistics) University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Irina A Dinu
- School of Public Health (Biostatistics) University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Bryan V Acton
- Department of Psychology University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
| | - Charlene M T Robertson
- Department of Pediatrics University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada.,Department of Pediatrics Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Edmonton Alberta Canada
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Cotrina ML, Ferreiras S, Schneider P. High prevalence of self-reported autism spectrum disorder in the Propionic Acidemia Registry. JIMD Rep 2020; 51:70-75. [PMID: 32071841 PMCID: PMC7012741 DOI: 10.1002/jmd2.12083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Propionic Acidemia (PA) is characterized by the accumulation of propionic acid (PPA), its toxic derivatives, and ammonia. The disease causes multiorgan damage, especially in heart, pancreas, and brain; seizures and intellectual disability are often described. Some PA children also show autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In this study, we have compiled data from 62 individuals from the Propionic Acidemia International Patient Registry and compared it to the published literature on the prevalence of autism in PA. The PA registry shows a significant proportion of ASD diagnoses that is consistent with the combined prevalence reported in the literature. It also shows that ASD in PA is gender balanced and it is diagnosed at older ages (median age 8 years) than in the national registry for autism (median age 4.3 years), which raises the possibility, among others, of PA specific risk factors affecting the natural history of ASD. Data from patient registries provide valuable information on studying the mechanisms involved in a rare disease, although more outreach effort must be done to increase participation and consistency in data entry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sindy Ferreiras
- Department of BiologyQueensborough Community College (QCC)BaysideNew York
| | - Patricia Schneider
- Department of BiologyQueensborough Community College (QCC)BaysideNew York
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18
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Stepien KM, Geberhiwot T, Hendriksz CJ, Treacy EP. Challenges in diagnosing and managing adult patients with urea cycle disorders. J Inherit Metab Dis 2019; 42:1136-1146. [PMID: 30932189 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Urea cycle disorders (UCD) are a group of rare inherited metabolic conditions of amino acid catabolism caused by an enzyme deficiency within the hepatic ammonia detoxification pathway. The presentation of these disorders ranges from life-threatening intoxication in the neonate to asymptomatic status in adults. Late-onset UCDs can present for the first time in adulthood and may mimic other causes of acute confusion or psychiatric diseases, and are often associated with neurological symptoms. Late-onset UCDs may become apparent during periods of metabolic stress such as rapid weight loss, gastric bypass surgery, chronic starvation or the postpartum period. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and to prevent long-term complications of hyperammonemia. The challenges of management of adults include for example: (a) poor compliance to dietary and medical treatment which can result in recurrent hospital admissions; (b) severe neurological dysfunction; (c) the management of pregnancy and the postpartum period; and (d) access to multidisciplinary care peri-operatively. In this review, we highlight a number of challenges in the diagnosis and management of adult patient with late-onset UCDs and suggest a systematic management approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina M Stepien
- Mark Holland Metabolic Unit, Adult Inherited Metabolic Diseases Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Tarekegn Geberhiwot
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christian J Hendriksz
- Department of Paediatrics, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Eileen P Treacy
- National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Paediatrics, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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19
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Crowe L, Anderson V, Hardikar W, Boneh A. Cognitive and Behavioural Outcomes of Paediatric Liver Transplantation for Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency. JIMD Rep 2018; 43:19-25. [PMID: 29524203 PMCID: PMC6323017 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2018_97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ornithine Trans-Carbamylase (OTC) deficiency is the most common disorder of the urea cycle. Cognitive impairments in skills such as attention and executive function have been reported in individuals with OTC deficiency who are managed with medication. In some cases, children undergo liver transplantation (LTx) to correct the metabolic defect. The metabolic and medical outcomes of LTx are generally good. However, little is known about the impacts on cognition. In this study, four children (three female) completed detailed neuropsychological batteries prior to (n = 6) and following LTx (n = 8 assessments). Children's age at assessment ranged from 3 to 11 years. The battery included standardised, age-referenced measures of intellectual ability (IQ), attention, memory and educational ability. Additionally, parent measures of behaviour and executive function were administered. Generally, there was little change in overall IQ following LTx. Memory and academic skills were at expected levels for the three female patients and gains were made after LTx. Children showed ongoing impairments in attention and parent rated executive function. In conclusion, the immediate effect of LTx on cognition may not appear beneficial in the short-term and impairments in IQ, attention and behaviour persisted after the procedure. However, LTx seems to enable stabilisation to premorbid function in the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Crowe
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Child Neuropsychology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Psychology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Vicki Anderson
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Child Neuropsychology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Winita Hardikar
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Avihu Boneh
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Metabolic Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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20
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Bigot A, Brunault P, Lavigne C, Feillet F, Odent S, Kaphan E, Thauvin C, Leguy V, Broué P, Tchan MC, Maillot F. Psychiatric adult-onset of urea cycle disorders: A case-series. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2017; 12:103-109. [PMID: 28725569 PMCID: PMC5502717 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult onset urea cycle disorders (UCD) may present with psychiatric symptoms, occasionally as the initial presentation. We aimed to describe the characteristics of patients presenting with a psychiatric adult-onset of UCDs, to discuss which signs could suggest this diagnosis in such a situation, and to determine which tests should be conducted. A survey of psychiatric symptoms occurring in teenagers or adults with UCD was conducted in 2010 among clinicians involved in the French society for the study of inborn errors of metabolism (SFEIM). Fourteen patients from 14 to 57 years old were reported. Agitation was reported in 10 cases, perseveration in 5, delirium in 4, and disinhibition in 3 cases. Three patients had pre-existing psychiatric symptoms. All patients had neurological symptoms associated with psychiatric symptoms, such as ataxia or dysmetria, psychomotor slowing, seizures, or hallucinations. Fluctuations of consciousness and coma were reported in 9 cases. Digestive symptoms were reported in 7 cases. 9 patients had a personal history suggestive of UCD. The differential diagnoses most frequently considered were exogenous intoxication, non-convulsive status epilepticus, and meningoencephalitis. Hyperammonemia (180-600 μmol/L) was found in all patients. The outcome was severe: mechanical ventilation was required in 10 patients, 5 patients died, and only 4 patients survived without sequelae. Adult onset UCDs can present with predominant psychiatric symptoms, associated with neurological involvement. These patients, as well as patients presenting with a suspicion of intoxication, must have UCD considered and ammonia measured without delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Bigot
- CHRU de Tours, Médecine interne, Tours, France
- CHRU de Toulouse, Service de pédiatrie, Toulouse, France
- Genetic Medicine, Westmead Hospital, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul Brunault
- CHRU de Tours, Clinique Psychiatrique Universitaire, Tours, France
- CHRU de Tours, Équipe de Liaison et de Soins en Addictologie, Tours, France
| | | | - François Feillet
- CHRU de Nancy, Centre de références des maladies héréditaires du métabolisme, Nancy, France
| | - Sylvie Odent
- CHRU de Rennes, Service de génétique, Rennes, France
| | - Elsa Kaphan
- CHRU de Marseille, Service de neurologie, La Timone, Marseille, France
| | | | - Vanessa Leguy
- CHRU de Dijon, Service de Médecine Interne, Dijon, France
| | - Pierre Broué
- CHRU de Toulouse, Service de pédiatrie, Toulouse, France
| | | | - François Maillot
- CHRU de Tours, Médecine interne, Tours, France
- Université François-Rabelais, INSERM 1069, Tours, France
- Corresponding author at: Service de Médecine Interne, Hopital Bretonneau, 2bd Tonnellé, 37044 Tours CEDEX 9, France.Service de Médecine InterneHopital Bretonneau2bd TonnelléTours CEDEX 937044France
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21
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Diez-Fernandez C, Rüfenacht V, Häberle J. Mutations in the Human Argininosuccinate Synthetase (ASS1) Gene, Impact on Patients, Common Changes, and Structural Considerations. Hum Mutat 2017; 38:471-484. [DOI: 10.1002/humu.23184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Diez-Fernandez
- Division of Metabolism; University Children´s Hospital and Children's Research Center; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Véronique Rüfenacht
- Division of Metabolism; University Children´s Hospital and Children's Research Center; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Johannes Häberle
- Division of Metabolism; University Children´s Hospital and Children's Research Center; Zurich Switzerland
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22
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Impaired novelty acquisition and synaptic plasticity in congenital hyperammonemia caused by hepatic glutamine synthetase deficiency. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40190. [PMID: 28067279 PMCID: PMC5220341 DOI: 10.1038/srep40190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic defects in ammonia metabolism can produce irreversible damage of the developing CNS causing an impairment of cognitive and motor functions. We investigated alterations in behavior, synaptic plasticity and gene expression in the hippocampus and dorsal striatum of transgenic mice with systemic hyperammonemia resulting from conditional knockout of hepatic glutamine synthetase (LGS-ko). These mice showed reduced exploratory activity and delayed habituation to a novel environment. Field potential recordings from LGS-ko brain slices revealed significantly reduced magnitude of electrically-induced long-term potentiation (LTP) in both CA3-CA1 hippocampal and corticostriatal synaptic transmission. Corticostriatal but not hippocampal slices from LGS-ko brains demonstrated also significant alterations in long-lasting effects evoked by pharmacological activation of glutamate receptors. Real-time RT-PCR revealed distinct patterns of dysregulated gene expression in the hippocampus and striatum of LGS-ko mice: LGS-ko hippocampus showed significantly modified expression of mRNAs for mGluR1, GluN2B subunit of NMDAR, and A1 adenosine receptors while altered expression of mRNAs for D1 dopamine receptors, the M1 cholinoreceptor and the acetylcholine-synthetizing enzyme choline-acetyltransferase was observed in LGS-ko striatum. Thus, inborn systemic hyperammonemia resulted in significant deficits in novelty acquisition and disturbed synaptic plasticity in corticostriatal and hippocampal pathways involved in learning and goal-directed behavior.
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23
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Barkovich E, Robinson C, Gropman A. Brain biomarkers and neuroimaging to diagnose urea cycle disorders and assess prognosis. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2016.1242407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Renuka M, Vijayakumar N, Ramakrishnan A. Chrysin, a flavonoid attenuates histological changes of hyperammonemic rats: A dose dependent study. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 82:345-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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Pacheco-Colón I, Washington SD, Sprouse C, Helman G, Gropman AL, VanMeter JW. Reduced Functional Connectivity of Default Mode and Set-Maintenance Networks in Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129595. [PMID: 26067829 PMCID: PMC4466251 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) is an X-chromosome linked urea cycle disorder (UCD) that causes hyperammonemic episodes leading to white matter injury and impairments in executive functioning, working memory, and motor planning. This study aims to investigate differences in functional connectivity of two resting-state networks—default mode and set-maintenance—between OTCD patients and healthy controls. Methods Sixteen patients with partial OTCD and twenty-two control participants underwent a resting-state scan using 3T fMRI. Combining independent component analysis (ICA) and region-of-interest (ROI) analyses, we identified the nodes that comprised each network in each group, and assessed internodal connectivity. Results Group comparisons revealed reduced functional connectivity in the default mode network (DMN) of OTCD patients, particularly between the anterior cingulate cortex/medial prefrontal cortex (ACC/mPFC) node and bilateral inferior parietal lobule (IPL), as well as between the ACC/mPFC node and the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) node. Patients also showed reduced connectivity in the set-maintenance network, especially between right anterior insula/frontal operculum (aI/fO) node and bilateral superior frontal gyrus (SFG), as well as between the right aI/fO and ACC and between the ACC and right SFG. Conclusion Internodal functional connectivity in the DMN and set-maintenance network is reduced in patients with partial OTCD compared to controls, most likely due to hyperammonemia-related white matter damage. Because several of the affected areas are involved in executive functioning, it is postulated that this reduced connectivity is an underlying cause of the deficits OTCD patients display in this cognitive domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ileana Pacheco-Colón
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Stuart D. Washington
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Courtney Sprouse
- Department of Neurogenetics, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC, United States of America
- George Washington University of the Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Guy Helman
- Department of Neurogenetics, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Andrea L. Gropman
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Neurogenetics, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC, United States of America
- George Washington University of the Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Medical Genetics Branch, NHGRI, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - John W. VanMeter
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Hyperammonemia in gene-targeted mice lacking functional hepatic glutamine synthetase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:5521-6. [PMID: 25870278 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1423968112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Urea cycle defects and acute or chronic liver failure are linked to systemic hyperammonemia and often result in cerebral dysfunction and encephalopathy. Although an important role of the liver in ammonia metabolism is widely accepted, the role of ammonia metabolizing pathways in the liver for maintenance of whole-body ammonia homeostasis in vivo remains ill-defined. Here, we show by generation of liver-specific Gln synthetase (GS)-deficient mice that GS in the liver is critically involved in systemic ammonia homeostasis in vivo. Hepatic deletion of GS triggered systemic hyperammonemia, which was associated with cerebral oxidative stress as indicated by increased levels of oxidized RNA and enhanced protein Tyr nitration. Liver-specific GS-deficient mice showed increased locomotion, impaired fear memory, and a slightly reduced life span. In conclusion, the present observations highlight the importance of hepatic GS for maintenance of ammonia homeostasis and establish the liver-specific GS KO mouse as a model with which to study effects of chronic hyperammonemia.
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Ornithine In Vivo Administration Disrupts Redox Homeostasis and Decreases Synaptic Na+, K+-ATPase Activity in Cerebellum of Adolescent Rats: Implications for the Pathogenesis of Hyperornithinemia-Hyperammonemia-Homocitrullinuria (HHH) Syndrome. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2015; 35:797-806. [PMID: 25772141 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-015-0173-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Pacheco-Colón I, Fricke S, VanMeter J, Gropman AL. Advances in urea cycle neuroimaging: Proceedings from the 4th International Symposium on urea cycle disorders, Barcelona, Spain, September 2013. Mol Genet Metab 2014; 113:118-26. [PMID: 25066103 PMCID: PMC4177962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Our previous imaging research performed as part of a Urea Cycle Rare Disorders Consortium (UCRDC) grant, has identified specific biomarkers of neurologic injury in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, OTCD. While characterization of mutations can be achieved in most cases, this information does not necessarily predict the severity of the underlying neurological syndrome. The biochemical consequences of any mutation may be modified additionally by a large number of factors, including contributions of other enzymes and transport systems that mediate flux through the urea cycle, diet and other environmental factors. These factors likely vary from one patient to another, and they give rise to heterogeneity of clinical severity. Affected cognitive domains include non-verbal learning, fine motor processing, reaction time, visual memory, attention, and executive function. Deficits in these capacities may be seen in symptomatic patients, as well as asymptomatic carriers with normal IQ and correlate with variances in brain structure and function in these patients. Using neuroimaging we can identify biomarkers that reflect the downstream impact of UCDs on cognition. This manuscript is a summary of the presentation from the 4th International Consortium on urea cycle disorders held in, Barcelona, Spain, September 2, 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stanley Fricke
- Children's National Medical, USA; George Washington University, USA
| | - John VanMeter
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, USA
| | - Andrea L Gropman
- Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging, Georgetown University, USA; Children's National Medical, USA; George Washington University, USA.
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Zanatta A, Viegas CM, Tonin AM, Busanello ENB, Grings M, Moura AP, Leipnitz G, Wajner M. Disturbance of redox homeostasis by ornithine and homocitrulline in rat cerebellum: a possible mechanism of cerebellar dysfunction in HHH syndrome. Life Sci 2013; 93:161-8. [PMID: 23806752 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cerebellar ataxia is commonly observed in hyperornithinemia-hyperammonemia-homocitrullinuria (HHH) syndrome, an inherited metabolic disorder biochemically characterized by ornithine (Orn), homocitrulline (Hcit) and ammonia accumulation. Since the pathophysiology of cerebellum damage in this disorder is still unknown, we investigated the effects of Hcit and Orn on important parameters of redox and energy homeostasis in cerebellum of young rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS We determined thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBA-RS) levels, carbonyl content, nitrate and nitrite production, hydrogen peroxide production, GSH concentrations, sulfhydryl content, as well as activities of respiratory chain complexes I-IV, creatine kinase, Na(+),K(+)-ATPase, aconitase and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. KEY FINDINGS Orn and Hcit significantly increased TBA-RS levels (lipid oxidation), that was totally prevented by melatonin and reduced glutathione (GSH). We also found that nitrate and nitrite production was not altered by any of the metabolites, in contrast to hydrogen peroxide production which was significantly enhanced by Hcit. Furthermore, GSH concentrations were significantly reduced by Orn and Hcit and sulfhydryl content by Orn, implying an impairment of antioxidant defenses. As regards energy metabolism, Orn and Hcit provoked a significant reduction of aconitase activity, without altering the other parameters. Furthermore, Orn-elicited reduction of aconitase activity was totally prevented by GSH, indicating that the critical groups of this enzyme were susceptible to oxidation caused by this amino acid. SIGNIFICANCE Taken together, our data indicate that redox homeostasis is disturbed by the major metabolites accumulating in HHH syndrome and that this mechanism may be implicated in the ataxia and cerebellar abnormalities observed in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Zanatta
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Häberle J. Clinical and biochemical aspects of primary and secondary hyperammonemic disorders. Arch Biochem Biophys 2013; 536:101-8. [PMID: 23628343 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2013.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
An increased concentration of ammonia is a non-specific laboratory sign indicating the presence of potentially toxic free ammonia that is not normally removed. This does occur in many different conditions for which hyperammonemia is a surrogate marker. Hyperammonemia can occur due to increased production or impaired detoxification of ammonia and should, if associated with clinical symptoms, be regarded as an emergency. The conditions can be classified into primary or secondary hyperammonemias depending on the underlying pathophysiology. If the urea cycle is directly affected by a defect of any of the involved enzymes or transporters, this results in primary hyperammonemia. If however the function of the urea cycle is inhibited by toxic metabolites or by substrate deficiencies, the situation is described as secondary hyperammonemia. For removal of ammonia, mammals require the action of glutamine synthetase in addition to the urea cycle, in order to ensure lowering of plasma ammonia concentrations to the normal range. Independent of its etiology, hyperammonemia may result in irreversible brain damage if not treated early and thoroughly. Thus, early recognition of a hyperammonemic state and immediate initiation of the specific management are of utmost importance. The main prognostic factors are, irrespective of the underlying cause, the duration of the hyperammonemic coma and the extent of ammonia accumulation. This paper will discuss the biochemical background of primary and secondary hyperammonemia and will give an overview of the various underlying conditions including a brief clinical outline and information on the genetic backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Häberle
- Division of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstr. 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Abstract
N-acetyl-glutamate synthase (NAGS) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive urea cycle disorder (UCD) that uncommonly presents in adulthood. Adult presentations of UCDs include; confusional episodes, neuropsychiatric symptoms and encephalopathy. To date, there have been no detailed neurological descriptions of an adult onset presentation of NAGS deficiency. In this review we examine the clinical presentation and management of UCDs with an emphasis on NAGS deficiency. An illustrative case is provided. Plasma ammonia levels should be measured in all adult patients with unexplained encephalopathy, as treatment can be potentially life-saving. Availability of N-carbamylglutamate (NCG; carglumic acid) has made protein restriction largely unnecessary in treatment regimens currently employed. Genetic counselling remains an essential component of management of NAGS.
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Developmental and psychiatric presentations of inherited metabolic disorders. Pediatr Neurol 2013; 48:179-87. [PMID: 23419468 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2012.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric neurologists and developmental pediatricians may evaluate patients with primary or associated behavioral and academic concerns. A critical element of the evaluation involves determining that the child's condition is not better explained by underlying inherited metabolic disorders. In this review, psychiatric and behavioral presentations of inherited metabolic disorders are discussed via several case studies. Key features of vignettes will illustrate when to consider these disorders in evaluating children referred for psychiatric and behavioral changes, after more common etiologies have been excluded. We seek to develop a better understanding of key clinical pearls to help identify children with an inherited metabolic disorder to account for behavioral or academic concerns.
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Kim IK, Niemi AK, Krueger C, Bonham CA, Concepcion W, Cowan TM, Enns GM, Esquivel CO. Liver transplantation for urea cycle disorders in pediatric patients: a single-center experience. Pediatr Transplant 2013; 17:158-67. [PMID: 23347504 DOI: 10.1111/petr.12041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
LT has emerged as a surgical treatment for UCDs. We hypothesize that LT can be safely and broadly utilized in the pediatric population to effectively prevent hyperammonemic crises and potentially improve neurocognitive outcomes. To determine the long-term outcomes of LT for UCDs, charts of children with UCD who underwent LT were retrospectively reviewed at an academic institution between July 2001 and May 2012. A total of 23 patients with UCD underwent LT at a mean age of 3.4 yr. Fifteen (65%) patients received a whole-liver graft, seven patients (30%) received a reduced-size graft, and one patient received a living donor graft. Mean five-yr patient survival was 100%, and allograft survival was 96%. Mean peak blood ammonia (NH(3) ) at presentation was 772 μmol/L (median 500, range 178-2969, normal <30-50). After transplantation, there were no episodes of hyperammonemia. Eleven patients were diagnosed with some degree of developmental delay before transplantation, which remained stable or improved after transplantation. Patients without developmental delay before transplantation maintained their cognitive abilities at long-term follow-up. LT was associated with the eradication of hyperammonemia, removal of dietary restrictions, and potentially improved neurocognitive development. Long-term follow-up is underway to evaluate whether LT at an early age (<1 yr) will attain improved neurodevelopmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene K Kim
- Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Mew NA, Krivitzky L, McCarter R, Batshaw M, Tuchman M. Clinical outcomes of neonatal onset proximal versus distal urea cycle disorders do not differ. J Pediatr 2013; 162:324-9.e1. [PMID: 22901741 PMCID: PMC4440324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2012.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical course and outcome of patients diagnosed with one of 4 neonatal-onset urea cycle disorders (UCDs): deficiency of carbamyl phosphate synthase 1 (CPSD), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTCD), argininosuccinate synthase (ASD), or argininosuccinate lyase (ALD). STUDY DESIGN Clinical, biochemical, and neuropsychological data from 103 subjects with neonatal-onset UCDs were derived from the Longitudinal Study of Urea Cycle Disorders, an observational protocol of the Urea Cycle Disorders Consortium, one of the Rare Disease Clinical Research Networks. RESULTS Some 88% of the subjects presented clinically by age 7 days. Peak ammonia level was 963 μM in patients with proximal UCDs (CPSD or OTCD), compared with 589 μM in ASD and 573 μM in ALD. Roughly 25% of subjects with CPSD or OTCD, 18% of those with ASD, and 67% of those with ALD had a "honeymoon period," defined as the time interval from discharge from initial admission to subsequent admission for hyperammonemia, greater than 1 year. The proportion of patients with a poor outcome (IQ/Developmental Quotient <70) was greatest in ALD (68%), followed by ASD (54%) and CPSD/OTCD (47%). This trend was not significant, but was observed in both patients aged <4 years and those aged ≥ 4 years. Poor cognitive outcome was not correlated with peak ammonia level or duration of initial admission. CONCLUSION Neurocognitive outcomes do not differ between patients with proximal UCDs and those with distal UCDs. Factors other than hyperammonemia may contribute to poor neurocognitive outcome in the distal UCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Ah Mew
- Center for Genetic Medicine and Center for Clinical and Community Research, Children's National Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Lauren Krivitzky
- Neuropsychology & Assessment, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Robert McCarter
- Center for Genetic Medicine and Center for Clinical and Community Research, Children's National Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Mark Batshaw
- Center for Genetic Medicine and Center for Clinical and Community Research, Children's National Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Mendel Tuchman
- Center for Genetic Medicine and Center for Clinical and Community Research, Children's National Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20010, USA
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Häberle J, Boddaert N, Burlina A, Chakrapani A, Dixon M, Huemer M, Karall D, Martinelli D, Crespo PS, Santer R, Servais A, Valayannopoulos V, Lindner M, Rubio V, Dionisi-Vici C. Suggested guidelines for the diagnosis and management of urea cycle disorders. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2012; 7:32. [PMID: 22642880 PMCID: PMC3488504 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-7-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 362] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are inborn errors of ammonia detoxification/arginine synthesis due to defects affecting the catalysts of the Krebs-Henseleit cycle (five core enzymes, one activating enzyme and one mitochondrial ornithine/citrulline antiporter) with an estimated incidence of 1:8.000. Patients present with hyperammonemia either shortly after birth (~50%) or, later at any age, leading to death or to severe neurological handicap in many survivors. Despite the existence of effective therapy with alternative pathway therapy and liver transplantation, outcomes remain poor. This may be related to underrecognition and delayed diagnosis due to the nonspecific clinical presentation and insufficient awareness of health care professionals because of disease rarity. These guidelines aim at providing a trans-European consensus to: guide practitioners, set standards of care and help awareness campaigns. To achieve these goals, the guidelines were developed using a Delphi methodology, by having professionals on UCDs across seven European countries to gather all the existing evidence, score it according to the SIGN evidence level system and draw a series of statements supported by an associated level of evidence. The guidelines were revised by external specialist consultants, unrelated authorities in the field of UCDs and practicing pediatricians in training. Although the evidence degree did hardly ever exceed level C (evidence from non-analytical studies like case reports and series), it was sufficient to guide practice on both acute and chronic presentations, address diagnosis, management, monitoring, outcomes, and psychosocial and ethical issues. Also, it identified knowledge voids that must be filled by future research. We believe these guidelines will help to: harmonise practice, set common standards and spread good practices with a positive impact on the outcomes of UCD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Häberle
- University Children’s Hospital Zurich and Children’s Research Centre, Zurich, 8032, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Boddaert
- Radiologie Hopital Necker, Service Radiologie Pediatrique, 149 Rue De Sevres, Paris 15, 75015, France
| | - Alberto Burlina
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Inborn Metabolic Disease, University Hospital Padua, Via Giustiniani 3, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Anupam Chakrapani
- Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6NH, United Kingdom
| | - Marjorie Dixon
- Dietetic Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, NHS Foundation Trust, London, WC1N 3JH, United Kingdom
| | - Martina Huemer
- Kinderabteilung, LKH Bregenz, Carl-Pedenz-Strasse 2, Bregenz, A-6900, Austria
| | - Daniela Karall
- University Children’s Hospital, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Diego Martinelli
- Division of Metabolism, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, Rome, I-00165, Italy
| | | | - René Santer
- Universitätsklinikum Hamburg Eppendorf, Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Martinistr. 52, Hamburg, 20246, Germany
| | - Aude Servais
- Service de Néphrologie et maladies métaboliques adulte Hôpital Necker 149, rue de Sèvres, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Vassili Valayannopoulos
- Reference Center for Inherited Metabolic Disorders (MaMEA), Hopital Necker-Enfants Malades, 149 Rue de Sevres, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Martin Lindner
- University Children’s Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 430, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Vicente Rubio
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IBV-CSIC) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red para Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), C/ Jaume Roig 11, Valencia, 46010, Spain
| | - Carlo Dionisi-Vici
- Division of Metabolism, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, Rome, I-00165, Italy
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Adam S, Champion H, Daly A, Dawson S, Dixon M, Dunlop C, Eardley J, Evans S, Ferguson C, Jankowski C, Lowry S, MacDonald A, Maritz C, Micciche A, Robertson L, Stafford J, Terry A, Thom R, van Wyk K, Webster D, White FJ, Wildgoose J. Dietary management of urea cycle disorders: UK practice. J Hum Nutr Diet 2012; 25:398-404. [PMID: 22594780 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-277x.2012.01259.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no published data describing UK dietary management of urea cycle disorders (UCD). The present study describes dietary practices in UK inherited metabolic disorder (IMD) centres. METHODS Cross-sectional data from 16 IMD centres were collected by a questionnaire describing the management of UCD patients on prescribed protein-restricted diets. RESULTS One hundred and seventy-five patients [N-acetylglutamate synthase deficiency, n = 3; carbamoyl phosphate synthase deficiency (CPS), n = 8; ornithine transcarbamoylase deficiency (OTC), n = 75; citrullinaemia, n = 41; argininosuccinic aciduria (ASA), n = 36; arginase deficiency, n = 12] were reported; 70% (n = 123) aged 0-16 years; 30% (n = 52) >16 years. Prescribed median protein intake decreased with age (0-6 months: 2 g kg(-1) day(-1); 7-12 months: 1.6 g kg(-1) day(-1); 1-10 years: 1.3 g kg(-1) day(-1); 11-16 years: 0.9 g kg(-1) day(-1) and >16 years: 0.8 g kg(-1) day(-1)) with little variation between disorders. Adult protein prescription ranged 0.4-1.2 g kg(-1) day(-1) (40-60 g day(-1)). In the previous 2 years, 30% (n = 53) were given essential amino acid supplements (EAAs) (CPS, n = 2; OTC, n = 20; citrullinaemia, n = 15; ASA, n = 7; arginase deficiency, n = 9). EAAs were prescribed for low plasma quantitative essential amino acids (n = 13 centres); inadequate natural protein intake (n = 11) and poor metabolic control (n = 9). From diagnosis, one centre prescribed EAAs for all patients and one centre for severe defects only. Only 3% (n = 6) were given branch chain amino acid supplements. Enteral feeding tubes were used by 25% (n = 44) for feeds and 3% (n = 6) for medications. Oral energy supplements were prescribed in 17% (n = 30) of cases. CONCLUSIONS In the UK, protein restriction based on World Health Organization 'safe intakes of protein', is the principle dietary treatment for UCD. EAA supplements are prescribed mainly on clinical need. Multicentre collaborative research is required to define optimal dietary treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Adam
- Royal Hospital for Sick Children Glasgow, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
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Seeliger C, Culmes M, Schyschka L, Yan X, Damm G, Wang Z, Kleeff J, Thasler WE, Hengstler J, Stöckle U, Ehnert S, Nüssler AK. Decrease of global methylation improves significantly hepatic differentiation of Ad-MSCs: possible future application for urea detoxification. Cell Transplant 2012; 22:119-31. [PMID: 22507189 DOI: 10.3727/096368912x638946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte transplantation is considered to be an alternative to orthotopic liver transplantation. Cells can be used to bridge patients waiting for a donor organ, decrease mortality in acute liver failure, and support metabolic liver diseases. The limited availability of primary human hepatocytes for such applications has led to the generation of alternative hepatocyte-like cells from various adult stem or precursor cells. The aim of this study was to generate hepatocyte-like cells from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Ad-MSCs) for clinical applications, which are available "off the shelf." Epigenetic changes in hepatocyte-like cells were induced by 5-azacytidine, which, in combination with other supplements, leads to significantly improved metabolic and enzymatic activities compared to nontreated cells. Cells with sufficient hepatic features were generated with a four-step protocol: 5-azacytidine (step 1); epidermal growth factor (step 2); fibroblast growth factor-4, dexamethasone, insulin-transferrin-sodium-selenite, and nicotinamide (step 3); and hepatocyte growth factor, dexamethasone, insulin-transferrin-sodium-selenite, and nicotinamide (step 4). Generated differentiated cells had higher phase I (CYP1A1/2, CYP2E1, CYP2B6, CYP3A4) and phase II activities compared to the undifferentiated cells. A strong expression of CYP3A7 and a weak expression of 3A4, as well as the important detoxification markers α-fetoprotein and albumin, could also be detected at the mRNA level. Importantly, urea metabolism (basal, NH4-stimulated, NH4- and ornithine-stimulated) was comparable to freshly isolated human hepatocytes, and unlike cryopreserved human hepatocytes, this activity was maintained after 6 months of cryopreservation. These findings suggest that these cells may be suitable for clinical application, especially for treatment of urea cycle disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Seeliger
- Technical University Munich, MRI, Department of Trauma Surgery, Germany
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Gropman AL, Shattuck K, Prust MJ, Seltzer RR, Breeden AL, Hailu A, Rigas A, Hussain R, VanMeter J. Altered neural activation in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency during executive cognition: an fMRI study. Hum Brain Mapp 2011; 34:753-61. [PMID: 22110002 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.21470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) is an X-linked urea cycle disorder characterized by hyperammonemia resulting in white matter injury and impairments in working memory and executive cognition. OBJECTIVE To test for differences in BOLD signal activation between subjects with OTCD and healthy controls during a working memory task. DESIGN, SETTING AND PATIENTS Nineteen subjects with OTCD and 21 healthy controls participated in a case-control, IRB-approved study at Georgetown University Medical Center. INTERVENTION An N-back working memory task was performed in a block design using 3T functional magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS In subjects with OTCD we observed increased BOLD signal in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) relative to healthy age matched controls. CONCLUSIONS Increased neuronal activation in OTCD subjects despite equivalent task performance points to sub-optimal activation of the working memory network in these subjects, most likely reflecting damage caused by hyperammonemic events. These increases directly relate to our previous finding of reduced frontal white matter integrity in the superior extents of the corpus callosum; key hemispheric connections for these areas. Future studies using higher cognitive load are required to further characterize these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Gropman
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
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Siegel MS, Smith WE. Psychiatric features in children with genetic syndromes: toward functional phenotypes. Pediatr Clin North Am 2011; 58:833-64, x. [PMID: 21855710 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2011.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders with identified genetic etiologies present a unique opportunity to study gene-brain-behavior connections in child psychiatry. Parsing complex human behavior into dissociable components is facilitated by examining a relatively homogenous genetic population. As children with developmental delay carry a greater burden of mental illness than the general population, familiarity with the most common genetic disorders will serve practitioners seeing a general child population. In this article, basic genetic testing and 11 of the most common genetic disorders are reviewed, including the evidence base for treatment. Based on their training in child development, family systems, and multimodal treatment, child psychiatrists are well positioned to integrate cognitive, behavioral, social, psychiatric, and physical phenotypes, with a focus on functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02110, USA.
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De Bie I, Lemyre E, Lambert M. Favorable long-term outcome following severe neonatal hyperammonemic coma in a patient with argininosuccinate synthetase deficiency. JIMD Rep 2011; 1:83-8. [PMID: 23430833 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2011_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2010] [Revised: 01/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This chapter reports on the sequelae-free 8-year follow-up with normal growth, intellectual development, and schooling of a boy with argininosuccinate synthetase deficiency (citrullinemia type I) who was rescued from severe neonatal hyperammonemic coma at 8 days of life (peak ammonia level of 1,058 μmol/L). Important clinical management aspects were: rapidity of response to emergency therapeutic measures that included specific drug regimen, protein restriction, optimal caloric intake and hemodialysis, short coma duration (14 h), possible neuroprotective effect of mild systemic hypothermia during the acute episode, long-term metabolic control with strict compliance to standard of care therapeutic and dietary regimens, active prevention of subsequent hyperammonemic episodes, and early neurodevelopmental evaluations and interventions. We conclude that good long-term neurological outcome following rescue from neonatal hyperammonemic coma is rarely reported but attainable. Prospective registries and interventional studies regrouping clinical data from urea cycle disorders patients will assist clinicians in instituting the appropriate therapeutic measures to provide the best prospect of positive long-term outcome for these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle De Bie
- Medical Genetics Division, Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, 3175 Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC, Canada, H3T-1C5,
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Dickson P, Pariser A, Groft SC, Ishihara R, McNeil D, Tagle D, Griebel D, Kaler S, Mink J, Shapiro E, Bjoraker K, Krivitzky L, Provenzale J, Gropman A, Orchard P, Raymond G, Cohen B, Steiner R, Goldkind SF, Nelson RM, Kakkis E, Patterson M. Research challenges in central nervous system manifestations of inborn errors of metabolism. Mol Genet Metab 2011; 102:326-38. [PMID: 21176882 PMCID: PMC3040279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2010.11.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2010] [Revised: 11/21/2010] [Accepted: 11/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The Research Challenges in CNS Manifestations of Inborn Errors of Metabolism workshop was designed to address challenges in translating potential therapies for these rare disorders, and to highlight novel therapeutic strategies and innovative approaches to CNS delivery, assessment of effects and directions for the future in the treatment of these diseases. Therapies for the brain in inborn errors represent some of the greatest challenges to translational research due to the special properties of the brain, and of inborn errors themselves. This review covers the proceedings of this workshop as submitted by participants. Scientific, ethical and regulatory issues are discussed, along with ways to measure outcomes and the conduct of clinical trials. Participants included regulatory and funding agencies, clinicians, scientists, industry and advocacy groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- P.I. Dickson
- Department of Pediatrics, LA Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W. Carson St, HH1, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - A.R. Pariser
- Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, WO22-6474, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - S. C. Groft
- Office of Rare Diseases Research, National Institutes of Health, 6100 Executive Boulevard, Room 3A-07, MSC-7518, Bethesda, MD 20892-7518
| | - R.W. Ishihara
- Division of Gastroenterology Products, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, WO22-, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - D.E. McNeil
- Office of Orphan Product Development, Office of the Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, WO32-5118, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - D. Tagle
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Neuroscience Center, Room 2114, 6001 Executive Boulevard, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - D.J. Griebel
- Division of Gastroenterology Products, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, WO22-5112, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - S.G. Kaler
- Unit on Human Copper Metabolism, Molecular Medicine Program, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Room 5-2571, MSC 1832, Bethesda, MD 20892-1832
| | - J.W. Mink
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 631, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - E.G. Shapiro
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - K.J. Bjoraker
- The Children’s Hospital-Denver, University of Colorado, 13123 East 16 Avenue, B-155, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - L. Krivitzky
- Children’s Research Institute, Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Medical Center, National Rehabilitation Hospital, 102 Irving Street, NW, Washington, DC 20010
| | - J.M. Provenzale
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3808 Med Ctr, Durham, NC 27710, and Departments of Radiology, Oncology and Biomedical Engineering, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - A. Gropman
- Neurogenetics Program, Children’s National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010-2970
| | - P. Orchard
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute of Human Genetics, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - G. Raymond
- Kennedy Krieger Institute and Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, 707 North Broadway, Suite 500, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - B.H. Cohen
- Neurological Institute, Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code S-60, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195
| | - R.D. Steiner
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular and Medical Genetics, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, Mali Code:CDRC, 707 SW Gaines Road, Portland, OR 97239
| | - S. F. Goldkind
- Office of Good Clinical Practice, Office of the Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, WO32-5110, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - R. M. Nelson
- Office of Pediatric Therapeutics, Office of the Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, WO32-5126, Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
| | - E. Kakkis
- Kakkis EveryLife Foundation, 77 Digital Drive, Suite 210, Novato, CA 94949
| | - M.C. Patterson
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905
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Cohen RA, Harezlak J, Gongvatana A, Buchthal S, Schifitto G, Clark U, Paul R, Taylor M, Thompson P, Tate D, Alger J, Brown M, Zhong J, Campbell T, Singer E, Daar E, McMahon D, Tso Y, Yiannoutsos CT, Navia B. Cerebral metabolite abnormalities in human immunodeficiency virus are associated with cortical and subcortical volumes. J Neurovirol 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03210849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Cohen RA, Harezlak J, Gongvatana A, Buchthal S, Schifitto G, Clark U, Paul R, Taylor M, Thompson P, Tate D, Alger J, Brown M, Zhong J, Campbell T, Singer E, Daar E, McMahon D, Tso Y, Yiannoutsos CT, Navia B. Cerebral metabolite abnormalities in human immunodeficiency virus are associated with cortical and subcortical volumes. J Neurovirol 2010; 16:435-44. [PMID: 20961212 DOI: 10.3109/13550284.2010.520817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral metabolite disturbances occur among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected people, and are thought to reflect neuropathology, including proinflammatory processes, and neuronal loss. HIV-associated cortical atrophy continues to occur, though its basis is not well understood, and the relationship of cerebral metabolic disturbance to structural brain abnormalities in HIV has not been well delineated. We hypothesized that metabolite disturbances would be associated with reduced cortical and subcortical volumes. Cerebral volumes were measured in 67 HIV-infected people, including 10 people with mild dementia (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS] dimentia complex [ADC] stage >1) via automated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) segmentation. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was used to measure levels of cerebral metabolites N-acetylaspartate (NAA), myo-inositol (MI), choline-containing compounds (Cho), glutamate/glutamine (Glx), and creatine (Cr) from three brain regions (frontal gray matter, frontal white matter, basal ganglia). Analyses were conducted to examine the associations between MRS and cerebral volumetric measures using both absolute and relative metabolite concentrations. NAA in the mid-frontal gray matter was most consistently associated with cortical (global, frontal, and parietal), ventricular, and caudate volumes based on analysis of absolute metabolite levels, whereas temporal lobe volume was associated with basal ganglia NAA and Glx, and Cho concentrations in the frontal cortex and basal ganglia. Hippocampal volume was associated with frontal white matter NAA, whereas thalamic volume was associated with both frontal white matter NAA and basal ganglia Glx. Analyses of relative metabolite concentrations (referenced to Cr) yielded weaker effects, although more metabolites were retained as significant predictors in the models than the analysis of absolute concentrations. These findings demonstrate that reduced cortical and subcortical volumes, which have been previously found to be linked to HIV status and history, are also strongly associated with the degree of cerebral metabolite disturbance observed via MRS. Reduced cortical and hippocampal volumes were most strongly associated with decreased NAA, though reduced Glx also tended to be associated with reduced cortical and subcortical volumes (caudate and thalamus) as well, suggesting both neuronal and glial disturbances. Interestingly, metabolite-volumetric relationships were not limited to the cortical region from which MRS was measured, possibly reflecting shared pathophysiological processes. The relationships between Cho and volumetric measures suggest a complicated relationship possibly related to the effects of inflammatory processes on brain volume. The findings demonstrate the relationship between MRI-derived measures of cerebral metabolite disturbances and structural brain integrity, which has implication in understanding HIV-associated neuropathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald A Cohen
- Department of Neuropsychology, The Miriam Hospital, Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, USA
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Béard E, Braissant O. Synthesis and transport of creatine in the CNS: importance for cerebral functions. J Neurochem 2010; 115:297-313. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06935.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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45
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Bajaj JS, Schubert CM, Heuman DM, Wade JB, Gibson DP, Topaz A, Saeian K, Hafeezullah M, Bell DE, Sterling RK, Stravitz RT, Luketic V, White MB, Sanyal AJ. Persistence of cognitive impairment after resolution of overt hepatic encephalopathy. Gastroenterology 2010; 138:2332-40. [PMID: 20178797 PMCID: PMC2883684 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2010.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2009] [Revised: 01/28/2010] [Accepted: 02/11/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In patients with cirrhosis, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) has acute but reversible as well as chronic components. We investigated the extent of residual cognitive impairment following clinical resolution of overt HE (OHE). METHODS Cognitive function of cirrhotic patients was evaluated using psychometric tests (digit symbol, block design, and number connection [NCT-A and B]) and the inhibitory control test (ICT). Improvement (reduction) in ICT lures and first minus second halves (DeltaL(1-2)) were used to determine learning of response inhibition. Two cross-sectional studies (A and B) compared data from stable cirrhotic patients with or without prior OHE. We then prospectively assessed cognitive performance, before and after the first episode of OHE. RESULTS In study A (226 cirrhotic patients), 54 had experienced OHE, 120 had minimal HE, and 52 with no minimal HE. Despite normal mental status on lactulose after OHE, cirrhotic patients were cognitively impaired, based on results from all tests. Learning of response inhibition (DeltaL(1-2) > or =1) was evident in patients with minimal HE and no minimal HE but was lost after OHE. In study B (50 additional patients who developed > or =1 documented OHE episode during follow-up), the number of OHE hospitalizations correlated with severity of residual impairment, indicated by ICT lures (r = 0.5, P = .0001), digit symbol test (r = -0.39, P = .002), and number connection test-B (r = 0.33, P = .04). In the prospective study (59 cirrhotic patients without OHE), 15 developed OHE; ICT lure response worsened significantly after OHE (12 before vs 18 after, P = .0003), and learning of response inhibition was lost. The 44 patients who did not experience OHE did not have deteriorations in cognitive function in serial testing. CONCLUSIONS In cirrhosis, episodes of OHE are associated with persistent and cumulative deficits in working memory, response inhibition, and learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia 23249, USA.
| | - Christine M Schubert
- Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Douglas M Heuman
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - James B Wade
- Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Douglas P Gibson
- Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Allyne Topaz
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Kia Saeian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Muhammad Hafeezullah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Debulon E Bell
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Richard K Sterling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - R Todd Stravitz
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Velimir Luketic
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Melanie B White
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Arun J Sanyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
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Bajaj JS, Schubert CM, Heuman DM, Wade JB, Gibson DP, Topaz A, Saeian K, Hafeezullah M, Bell DE, Sterling RK, Stravitz RT, Luketic V, White MB, Sanyal AJ. Persistence of cognitive impairment after resolution of overt hepatic encephalopathy. Gastroenterology 2010. [PMID: 20178797 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2011.490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In patients with cirrhosis, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) has acute but reversible as well as chronic components. We investigated the extent of residual cognitive impairment following clinical resolution of overt HE (OHE). METHODS Cognitive function of cirrhotic patients was evaluated using psychometric tests (digit symbol, block design, and number connection [NCT-A and B]) and the inhibitory control test (ICT). Improvement (reduction) in ICT lures and first minus second halves (DeltaL(1-2)) were used to determine learning of response inhibition. Two cross-sectional studies (A and B) compared data from stable cirrhotic patients with or without prior OHE. We then prospectively assessed cognitive performance, before and after the first episode of OHE. RESULTS In study A (226 cirrhotic patients), 54 had experienced OHE, 120 had minimal HE, and 52 with no minimal HE. Despite normal mental status on lactulose after OHE, cirrhotic patients were cognitively impaired, based on results from all tests. Learning of response inhibition (DeltaL(1-2) > or =1) was evident in patients with minimal HE and no minimal HE but was lost after OHE. In study B (50 additional patients who developed > or =1 documented OHE episode during follow-up), the number of OHE hospitalizations correlated with severity of residual impairment, indicated by ICT lures (r = 0.5, P = .0001), digit symbol test (r = -0.39, P = .002), and number connection test-B (r = 0.33, P = .04). In the prospective study (59 cirrhotic patients without OHE), 15 developed OHE; ICT lure response worsened significantly after OHE (12 before vs 18 after, P = .0003), and learning of response inhibition was lost. The 44 patients who did not experience OHE did not have deteriorations in cognitive function in serial testing. CONCLUSIONS In cirrhosis, episodes of OHE are associated with persistent and cumulative deficits in working memory, response inhibition, and learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia 23249, USA.
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Siegel MS, Smith WE. Psychiatric features in children with genetic syndromes: toward functional phenotypes. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2010; 19:229-61, viii. [PMID: 20478498 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2010.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders with identified genetic etiologies present a unique opportunity to study gene-brain-behavior connections in child psychiatry. Parsing complex human behavior into dissociable components is facilitated by examining a relatively homogenous genetic population. As children with developmental delay carry a greater burden of mental illness than the general population, familiarity with the most common genetic disorders will serve practitioners seeing a general child population. In this article basic genetic testing and 11 of the most common genetic disorders are reviewed, including the evidence base for treatment. Based on their training in child development, family systems, and multimodal treatment, child psychiatrists are well positioned to integrate cognitive, behavioral, social, psychiatric, and physical phenotypes, with a focus on functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Siegel
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02110, USA.
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48
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Clinical and biochemical characteristics of patients with urea cycle disorders in a developing country. Clin Biochem 2010; 43:461-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2009.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2009] [Revised: 11/23/2009] [Accepted: 12/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Campeau PM, Pivalizza PJ, Miller G, McBride K, Karpen S, Goss J, Lee BH. Early orthotopic liver transplantation in urea cycle defects: follow up of a developmental outcome study. Mol Genet Metab 2010; 100 Suppl 1:S84-7. [PMID: 20223690 PMCID: PMC2867349 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2010.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2010] [Accepted: 02/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Patients with neonatal urea cycle defects (UCDs) typically have high mortality and poor neurological outcome unless they receive liver transplantation. Neurologic outcome may be better with liver transplantation before age one year. We report on a follow up on an initial prospective study performed to assess developmental outcome after early liver transplant using the Griffiths Scales. Developmental testing up to 7years after transplantation showed average developmental quotients (DQs) of 69 for four children who underwent transplantation before one year of age (latest DQs were 47, 63, 95 and 96), and 80 for a patient who underwent transplantation at 3years of age (latest DQ was 88). We conclude that a combination of early liver transplantation, aggressive metabolic management and early childhood intervention improve the neurologic outcome of children with UCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe M Campeau
- Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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50
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Abstract
Urea cycle disorders (UCD) represent a group of rare inborn errors of metabolism that carry a high risk of mortality and neurological morbidity resulting from the effects of accumulation of ammonia and other biochemical intermediates. These disorders result from single gene defects involved in the detoxification pathway of ammonia to urea. UCD include deficiencies in any of the six enzymes and two membrane transporters involved in urea biosynthesis. It has previously been reported that approximately half of infants who present with hyperammonemic coma in the newborn period die of cerebral edema; and those who survive 3days or more of coma invariably have intellectual disability [1]. In children with partial defects there is an association between the number and severity of recurrent hyperammonemic (HA) episodes (i.e. with or without coma) and subsequent cognitive and neurologic deficits [2]. However, the effects of milder or subclinical HA episodes on the brain are largely unknown. This review discusses the results of neuroimaging studies performed as part of the NIH funded Rare Diseases Clinical Research Center in Urea Cycle Disorders and focuses on biomarkers of brain injury in ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD). We used anatomic imaging, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI), and (1)H/(13)C magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to study clinically stable adults with partial OTCD. This allowed us to determine alterations in brain biochemistry associated with changes in cell volume and osmolarity and permitted us to identify brain biomarkers of HA. We found that white matter tracts underlying specific pathways involved in working memory and executive function are altered in subjects with OTCD (as measured by DTI), including those heterozygous women who were previously considered asymptomatic. An understanding of the pathogenesis of brain injury in UCD is likely to advance our knowledge of more common disorders of liver dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gropman
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Medical Center, Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
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