1
|
Díez-Arroyo C, García-García M, Soto-Méndez MJ, Molina-Montes E, Gil-Campos M, Gil Á, Gutiérrez-Jimeno M, Hernández-Ruiz Á. Effect of the ketogenic diet as a treatment for refractory epilepsy in children and adolescents: a systematic review of reviews. Nutr Rev 2024; 82:487-502. [PMID: 37400987 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders in childhood. Antiepileptic drugs are the preferred treatment. However, 30% of children continue suffering seizures. A ketogenic diet (KD) is one of the emerging alternative treatments. OBJECTIVE This review aims to analyze the current evidence regarding the use of a KD for the treatment of refractory epilepsy (RE) in childhood. DATA SOURCES A systematic review of reviews was performed, based on MEDLINE (PubMed) as at January 2021. DATA EXTRACTION The data extracted included the first author's last name; the year of publication; the country; the study design; the population; the diagnosis, concept, and description of KD types; and major outcome. RESULTS Twenty-one reviews were included, 8 with systematic methodology (2 of them included a meta-analysis) and 13 with unsystematic methodology. The main difference between the 2 types of reviews is the reproducibility of their methodology. Therefore, the results of each type of review were analyzed separately. Each type of review described 4 categories of KD: classic KD, modified Atkins diet (MAD), use of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and low glycemic index treatment (LGIT). In terms of effectiveness, the considered systematic reviews reported reductions in the frequency of seizures greater than 50% in about half of the patients. Reviews without systematic methodology reported that 30%-60% of the children showed a 50% or greater reduction in seizures. The most frequently described adverse effects in the 8 systematic reviews were: vomiting (6/8), constipation (6/8), and diarrhea (6/8); and in the unsystematic reviews: vomiting and nausea (10/13), constipation (10/13), and acidosis (9/13). CONCLUSION KD can be an effective treatment for RE, with a more than 50% reduction in the frequency of seizures and cognitive improvement being achieved in half of the pediatric patients. The effectiveness of the various types of KD is comparable, and the KD can be adapted to the needs of the patient. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42021244142.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Díez-Arroyo
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
- Unidad de Hospitalización de Medicina Interna, Hospital Tres Mares, Reinosa, Cantabria, Spain
| | - Mónica García-García
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
- Servicio de Emergencias Sanitarias de SACYL, Valladolid, Spain
| | | | - Esther Molina-Montes
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix," Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Armilla, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- CIBERESP (Epidemiology and Publich Health), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Gil-Campos
- CIBEROBN, (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Metabolism and Investigation Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute of Biomedicine Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ángel Gil
- Iberoamerican Nutrition Foundation (FINUT), Armilla, Granada, Spain
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "José Mataix," Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Armilla, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- CIBEROBN, (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, II University of Granada, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Miriam Gutiérrez-Jimeno
- Departamento de Pediatría del Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Ángela Hernández-Ruiz
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
- Iberoamerican Nutrition Foundation (FINUT), Armilla, Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Alam S, Westmark CJ, McCullagh EA. Diet in treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1031016. [PMID: 37492195 PMCID: PMC10364988 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1031016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Altering the diet to treat disease dates to c. 400 BC when starvation was used to reduce seizures in persons with epilepsy. The current diversity of symptomology and mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and a corresponding lack of disorder-specific effective treatments prompts an evaluation of diet as a therapeutic approach to improve symptoms of ASDs. In this review article, we summarize the main findings of nutritional studies in ASDs, with an emphasis on the most common monogenic cause of autism, Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), and the most studied dietary intervention, the ketogenic diet as well as other dietary interventions. We also discuss the gut microbiota in relation to pre- and probiotic therapies and provide insight into future directions that could aid in understanding the mechanism(s) underlying dietary efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Alam
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Cara J. Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. McCullagh
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nogay NH, Nahikian-Nelms M. Effects of nutritional interventions in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: an overview based on a literature review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 69:811-824. [PMID: 37885847 PMCID: PMC10599198 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2022.2036921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Background: Nutrition is important in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Because nutritional problems of children with ASD can lead to nutritional deficiencies and this can also directly or indirectly affect symptoms related to autism. We investigated the effect of diet and supplementation treatments on gastrointestinal, behavioral or sleep problems based on the results of literature review. Methods: We generated four questions based on literature. We carried out title and abstract-based search using the Web of Science database. Of 4580 abstracts were identified, 192 papers were reviewed and 55 papers precisely meeting the inclusion criteria. Results: The studies examining the effects of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and other supplements on ASD symptoms had different dosages, different treatment durations, small sample sizes and used different scales for evaluation. The results of the studies of the effectiveness of Gluten-Free and Casein-Free (GFCF) and ketogenic diet to reduce gastrointestinal, behavioral and sleeping problems in children and adolescents were contradictory. Conclusions: It is not possible to suggest the GFCF and/or ketogenic diet, vitamins, minerals and probiotics to individual with ASD based on the available evidence. By planning a sufficient and balanced diet, it should be aimed to prevent nutrient deficiency and to ensure growth in accordance with the age in children with ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nalan Hakime Nogay
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Marcia Nahikian-Nelms
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Medicine, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Westmark PR, Gutierrez A, Gholston AK, Wilmer TM, Westmark CJ. Preclinical testing of the ketogenic diet in fragile X mice. Neurochem Int 2020; 134:104687. [PMID: 31958482 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The ketogenic diet is highly effective at attenuating seizures in refractory epilepsy, and accumulating evidence in the literature suggests that it may be beneficial in autism. To our knowledge, no one has studied the ketogenic diet in any fragile X syndrome (FXS) model. FXS is the leading known genetic cause of autism. Herein, we tested the effects of chronic ketogenic diet treatment on seizures, body weight, ketone and glucose levels, diurnal activity levels, learning and memory, and anxiety behaviors in Fmr1KO and littermate control mice as a function of age. The ketogenic diet selectively attenuates seizures in male but not female Fmr1KO mice and differentially affects weight gain and diurnal activity levels dependent on Fmr1 genotype, sex and age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela R Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Alejandra Gutierrez
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Molecular Environmental Toxicology Center, Summer Research Opportunities Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Aaron K Gholston
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Molecular Environmental Toxicology Center, Summer Research Opportunities Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Taralyn M Wilmer
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Cara J Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Caplliure‐Llopis J, Peralta‐Chamba T, Carrera‐Juliá S, Cuerda‐Ballester M, Drehmer‐Rieger E, López‐Rodriguez MM, de la Rubia Ortí JE. Therapeutic alternative of the ketogenic Mediterranean diet to improve mitochondrial activity in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A Comprehensive Review. Food Sci Nutr 2020; 8:23-35. [PMID: 31993129 PMCID: PMC6977418 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease which is pathogenically based on the mitochondrial alteration of motor neurons, causing progressive neuron death. While ALS is characterized by enormous oxidative stress, the Mediterranean diet has been seen to have high antioxidant power. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine how the Mediterranean diet can improve mitochondrial activity, establishing the specific nutrients and, in addition, observing the pathogenic mechanisms related to the disease that would achieve this improvement. To this end, a comprehensive review of the literature was performed using PubMed. KBs have been observed to have a neuroprotective effect to improve energy balance, increasing survival and the number of motor neurons. This ketogenesis can be achieved after following a Mediterranean diet which is associated with great benefits in other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and ALS. These benefits are due to the high antioxidant power especially based on polyphenols contained mainly in olive oil, wine, nuts, or berries. In short, KBs could be considered as a promising option to treat ALS, representing an alternative source to glucose in motor neurons by providing neuroprotection. In addition, treatment results can be improved as ketogenesis can be achieved (increase in KBs) by following a Mediterranean diet, thanks to the high antioxidant properties which, at the same time, would improve the high oxidative stress that characterizes the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Caplliure‐Llopis
- Doctoral Degree's SchoolCatholic University of ValenciaValenciaSpain
- University Hospital la RiberaAlziraSpain
| | | | - Sandra Carrera‐Juliá
- Doctoral Degree's SchoolCatholic University of ValenciaValenciaSpain
- Faculty of Medicine and OdontologyCatholic. University of ValenciaValenciaSpain
| | | | - Eraci Drehmer‐Rieger
- Department of Health and Functional ValorizationCatholic University of ValenciaValenciaSpain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rezaei S, Abdurahman AA, Saghazadeh A, Badv RS, Mahmoudi M. Short-term and long-term efficacy of classical ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet in children and adolescents with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Neurosci 2017; 22:317-334. [PMID: 29069983 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1387721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Classical ketogenic diet (KD) and modified Atkins diet (MAD) are two types of KD commonly used for the treatment of intractable epilepsy throughout the world. Studies have shown the efficacy of these diets. However, no systematic review and meta-analysis study has to date compared the efficacy of KD and MAD in a time trend. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to compare the short-term and long-term efficacy of classical KD and MAD in children and adolescents with epilepsy and to determine the efficacy of classical KD and MAD at multiple time points and in a time trend. METHODS Main electronic literature databases, including MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE, were searched in November 2016. Rate difference and random effects model were used to compare the efficacy of the classical KD and MAD. RESULTS Overall, 70 studies were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis revealed a non-significant trend toward a higher efficacy of MAD at month-3 and month-6 (P > 0.05). In the classical KD group, the percentage of responder patients achieving ≥50% seizure reduction was 62, 60, 52, 42, and 46% at month-1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 and for the MAD group was 55, 47, 42, and 29% at month-1, 3, 6, and 12, respectively. DISCUSSION Classical KD does not differ substantially from MAD in ≥50% and ≥90% reduction of seizure frequency at month-3 and month-6. Overall, the number of patients achieving seizure freedom increases over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shahabeddin Rezaei
- a Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,b Students' Scientific Research Center , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ahmed Abdulahi Abdurahman
- c Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics , Tehran University of Medical Sciences International Campus (TUMS-IC) , Tehran , Iran
| | - Amene Saghazadeh
- d Molecular Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,e Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN) , Tehran , Iran
| | - Reza Shervin Badv
- f Paediatrics Centre of Excellence, Department of Paediatric Neurology , Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Maryam Mahmoudi
- a Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,g Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Children's Medical Center , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,h Dietitians and Nutrition Experts Team (DiNET), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN) , Tehran , Iran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Llewellyn KJ, Walker N, Nguyen C, Tan B, BenMohamed L, Kimonis VE, Nalbandian A. A Fine Balance of Dietary Lipids Improves Pathology of a Murine Model of VCP-Associated Multisystem Proteinopathy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131995. [PMID: 26134519 PMCID: PMC4489713 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of effective therapies and of disease mechanisms underlying valosin containing protein (VCP)-associated myopathies and neurodegenerative disorders remains elusive. VCP disease, caused by mutations in the VCP gene, are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders with manifestations varying from hereditary inclusion body myopathy, Paget’s disease of bone, frontotemporal dementia (IBMPFD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the present study, we examined the effects of higher dietary lipid percentages on VCPR155H/R155H, VCPR155H/+ and Wild Type (WT) mice from birth until 15 months of age by immunohistochemical and biochemical assays. Findings illustrated improvement in the muscle strength, histology, and autophagy signaling pathway in the heterozygote mice when fed 9% lipid-enriched diets (LED). However, increasing the LED by 12%, 30%, and 48% showed no improvement in homozygote and heterozygote survival, muscle pathology, lipid accumulation or the autophagy cascade. These findings suggest that a balanced lipid supplementation may have a therapeutic strategy for patients with VCP-associated multisystem proteinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrina J. Llewellyn
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Naomi Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Christopher Nguyen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Baichang Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Lbachir BenMohamed
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
- Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Virginia E. Kimonis
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
| | - Angèle Nalbandian
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomics Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Institute, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Treatment of pediatric epilepsy in Poland. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2015; 19:320-6. [PMID: 25682573 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2014.12.023] [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: 09/07/2014] [Revised: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The many types of childhood epilepsies make the diagnosis and treatment difficult and the outcomes frequently poor. Furthermore, there are few clinical trials in pediatric epilepsy that provide useful results to guide daily practice. Therefore for pediatric neurologists expert opinion may be useful. AIMS To provide an overview of current practice in Poland and compare results with European and US clinical guidelines. METHODS Polish specialists in pediatric neurology were asked to participate in a survey about pediatric epilepsy. The focus of the questions was on the overall strategy and treatment options for different syndromic diagnoses. The survey was developed and performed according to a previous European survey (Wheless et al., 2007). RESULTS Fifty-one Polish specialists, working in academic or clinical settings, completed the questionnaire. They limited combination therapy to two or three antiepileptic drugs. Valproate was the treatment of choice for myoclonic, generalized tonic-clonic seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. For infantile spasms caused by tuberous sclerosis and of symptomatic etiology, vigabatrin was treatment of choice; valproate and ACTH were other first line options. Valproate and ethosuximide were chosen for childhood absence epilepsy and valproate for juvenile absence epilepsy. Carbamazepine was the first-line treatment option for benign partial epilepsy of childhood with centrotemporal spikes and complex partial seizures. In the treatment of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy for males valproate, for females lamotrigine were chosen. CONCLUSION Polish pediatric neurologists agreed on the majority of questions. Their views reflect the clinical utility and availability of treatment options in Poland. Results may provide direction for clinicians.
Collapse
|
9
|
Sadowski K, Jóźwiak S. Recent advances in pathophysiology studies and treatment of epilepsy in neurocutaneous disorders. JOURNAL OF EPILEPTOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1515/joepi-2015-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYIntroduction.Epilepsy that is associated with neurocutaneous disorders seriously deteriorates quality of life and cognitive outcome of affected children. Recent advances in epilepsy pathophysiology raise hopes for better treatment results in this difficult group of patients.Aim.The aim of this review is to present recent treatment recommendations as well as current research progress in the most frequent neurocutaneous disorders.Material and methods.We analyzed PubMed database to select the most prominent and recent (up to 2014 year) publications on the treatment and mechanisms of epilepsy in selected neurocutaneous disorders. We aimed to emphasize evidence-based medicine recommendations as well as basic experimental studies dealing with molecular mechanisms of epileptogenesis.Discussion and conclusions.Recent advances in disease-modifying treatment options such as mTOR inhibitors in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex open up new perspectives for neurologists. Traditional resective surgery has still a major role as a treatment of choice in carefully selected cases.
Collapse
|
10
|
Napoli E, Dueñas N, Giulivi C. Potential therapeutic use of the ketogenic diet in autism spectrum disorders. Front Pediatr 2014; 2:69. [PMID: 25072037 PMCID: PMC4074854 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2014.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ketogenic diet (KGD) has been recognized as an effective treatment for individuals with glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) deficiencies as well as with epilepsy. More recently, its use has been advocated in a number of neurological disorders prompting a newfound interest in its possible therapeutic use in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). One study and one case report indicated that children with ASD treated with a KGD showed decreased seizure frequencies and exhibited behavioral improvements (i.e., improved learning abilities and social skills). The KGD could benefit individuals with ASD affected with epileptic episodes as well as those with either PDH or mild respiratory chain (RC) complex deficiencies. Given that the mechanism of action of the KGD is not fully understood, caution should be exercised in ASD cases lacking a careful biochemical and metabolic characterization to avoid deleterious side effects or refractory outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Napoli
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA
| | - Nadia Dueñas
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA
| | - Cecilia Giulivi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA ; Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (M. I. N. D.) Institute , Sacramento, CA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Llewellyn KJ, Nalbandian A, Jung KM, Nguyen C, Avanesian A, Mozaffar T, Piomelli D, Kimonis VE. Lipid-enriched diet rescues lethality and slows down progression in a murine model of VCP-associated disease. Hum Mol Genet 2013; 23:1333-44. [PMID: 24158850 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddt523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Valosin-containing protein (VCP)-associated disease caused by mutations in the VCP gene includes combinations of a phenotypically heterogeneous group of disorders such as hereditary inclusion body myopathy, Paget's disease of bone, frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Currently, there are no effective treatments for VCP myopathy or dementia. VCP mouse models carrying the common R155H mutation include several of the features typical of the human disease. In our previous investigation, VCP(R155H/R155H) homozygous mice exhibited progressive weakness and accelerated pathology prior to their early demise. Herein, we report that feeding pregnant VCP(R155H/+) heterozygous dams with a lipid-enriched diet (LED) results in the reversal of the lethal phenotype in VCP(R155H/R155H) homozygous offspring. We examined the effects of this diet on homozygous and wild-type mice from birth until 9 months of age. The LED regimen improved survival, motor activity, muscle pathology and the autophagy cascade. A targeted lipidomic analysis of skeletal muscle and liver revealed elevations in tissue levels of non-esterified palmitic acid and ceramide (d18:1/16:0), two lipotoxic substances, in the homozygous mice. The ability to reverse lethality, increase survival, and ameliorate myopathy and lipids deficits in the VCP(R155H/R155H) homozygous animals suggests that lipid supplementation may be a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with VCP-associated neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
|
12
|
Frye RE, Rossignol D, Casanova MF, Brown GL, Martin V, Edelson S, Coben R, Lewine J, Slattery JC, Lau C, Hardy P, Fatemi SH, Folsom TD, MacFabe D, Adams JB. A review of traditional and novel treatments for seizures in autism spectrum disorder: findings from a systematic review and expert panel. Front Public Health 2013; 1:31. [PMID: 24350200 PMCID: PMC3859980 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2013.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that seizures are commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the effectiveness of treatments for seizures has not been well studied in individuals with ASD. This manuscript reviews both traditional and novel treatments for seizures associated with ASD. Studies were selected by systematically searching major electronic databases and by a panel of experts that treat ASD individuals. Only a few anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) have undergone carefully controlled trials in ASD, but these trials examined outcomes other than seizures. Several lines of evidence point to valproate, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam as the most effective and tolerable AEDs for individuals with ASD. Limited evidence supports the use of traditional non-AED treatments, such as the ketogenic and modified Atkins diet, multiple subpial transections, immunomodulation, and neurofeedback treatments. Although specific treatments may be more appropriate for specific genetic and metabolic syndromes associated with ASD and seizures, there are few studies which have documented the effectiveness of treatments for seizures for specific syndromes. Limited evidence supports l-carnitine, multivitamins, and N-acetyl-l-cysteine in mitochondrial disease and dysfunction, folinic acid in cerebral folate abnormalities and early treatment with vigabatrin in tuberous sclerosis complex. Finally, there is limited evidence for a number of novel treatments, particularly magnesium with pyridoxine, omega-3 fatty acids, the gluten-free casein-free diet, and low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic simulation. Zinc and l-carnosine are potential novel treatments supported by basic research but not clinical studies. This review demonstrates the wide variety of treatments used to treat seizures in individuals with ASD as well as the striking lack of clinical trials performed to support the use of these treatments. Additional studies concerning these treatments for controlling seizures in individuals with ASD are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Frye
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | | | | | - Gregory L. Brown
- Autism Recovery and Comprehensive Health Medical Center, Franklin, WI, USA
| | - Victoria Martin
- Autism Recovery and Comprehensive Health Medical Center, Franklin, WI, USA
| | | | - Robert Coben
- New York University Brain Research Laboratory, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey Lewine
- MIND Research Network, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - John C. Slattery
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Chrystal Lau
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Paul Hardy
- Hardy Healthcare Associates, Hingham, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
We report the history of a child with autism and epilepsy who, after limited response to other interventions following her regression into autism, was placed on a gluten-free, casein-free diet, after which she showed marked improvement in autistic and medical symptoms. Subsequently, following pubertal onset of seizures and after failing to achieve full seizure control pharmacologically she was advanced to a ketogenic diet that was customized to continue the gluten-free, casein-free regimen. On this diet, while still continuing on anticonvulsants, she showed significant improvement in seizure activity. This gluten-free casein-free ketogenic diet used medium-chain triglycerides rather than butter and cream as its primary source of fat. Medium-chain triglycerides are known to be highly ketogenic, and this allowed the use of a lower ratio (1.5:1) leaving more calories available for consumption of vegetables with their associated health benefits. Secondary benefits included resolution of morbid obesity and improvement of cognitive and behavioral features. Over the course of several years following her initial diagnosis, the child's Childhood Autism Rating Scale score decreased from 49 to 17, representing a change from severe autism to nonautistic, and her intelligence quotient increased 70 points. The initial electroencephalogram after seizure onset showed lengthy 3 Hz spike-wave activity; 14 months after the initiation of the diet the child was essentially seizure free and the electroencephalogram showed only occasional 1-1.5 second spike-wave activity without clinical accompaniments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha R Herbert
- Pediatric Neurology and TRANSCEND Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02129, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Triheptanoin is a triglyceride containing heptanoate, an odd-chained medium fatty acid that is metabolized to produce propionyl-CoA and subsequently C4 intermediates of the citric acid cycle and therefore capable of anaplerosis. These metabolic products are believed to underlie triheptanoin's anticonvulsant effects in rodent seizure models. Here we investigate the anticonvulsive effects of oral triheptanoin in a syndrome-specific genetic mouse model of generalized epilepsy based on the GABA(A)γ2(R43Q) mutation. Mice were fed a diet supplemented with triheptanoin from weaning for three weeks prior to electrocortical recordings. Occurrence and durations of spike and wave discharges (SWDs) were measured. Triheptanoin did not alter body weight or basal blood glucose levels suggesting that it was well tolerated. Triheptanoin supplementation halved the time spent in seizures due to a reduction in both SWD occurrence and duration. An injection of insulin was used to reduce blood glucose, a metabolic stress known to precipitate seizures in the GABA(A)γ2(R43Q) mouse. The reduction in seizure count was also evident following insulin induced hypoglycemia with the triheptanoin treated group having significantly less SWDs than control animals under similar low blood glucose conditions. In summary, triheptanoin may be an effective and well tolerated dietary therapy for generalized epilepsy.
Collapse
|