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Smets I, Versteegh M, Huygens S, Wokke B, Smolders J. Benefits of early highly effective versus escalation treatment strategies in relapsing multiple sclerosis estimated using a treatment-sequence model. Mult Scler 2024:13524585241258692. [PMID: 38859625 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241258692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncertainty about disproportionate impact on health care budgets limits implementation of early highly effective treatment (EHT) in multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE To estimate cost-effectiveness of escalation versus EHT disease-modifying treatment (DMT) sequences. METHODS Using a health-economic approach, we analysed health benefits (relapse rate reduction, disability prevention), direct/indirect DMT and societal costs of escalation versus EHT DMT sequences. In scenario analyses, we allowed (1) earlier use of alemtuzumab (ALE) and (2) a single retreatment with cladribine (CLA). RESULTS In our model, we showed that the ratio between costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for the most cost-effective EHT and escalation sequence results into a similar net health benefit with higher costs and also higher QALYs associated with an EHT versus escalation strategy. Earlier use of ALE is more cost-effective than in later lines, even when aggravating the impact of its side-effects tenfold. Retreatment with CLA was more cost-effective in both escalation and EHT sequences. CONCLUSIONS Certain EHT sequences are equally cost-effective to escalation sequences and are likely to result in more health at uncertain additional costs. The favourable cost-benefit ratio of CLA and ALE suggests that a wider application of affordable highly effective therapies could promote the cost-effectiveness both EHT and escalation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ide Smets
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Beatrijs Wokke
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Smolders
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Neuroimmunology Research Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Collongues N, Durand-Dubief F, Lebrun-Frenay C, Audoin B, Ayrignac X, Bensa C, Bigaut K, Bourre B, Carra-Dallière C, Ciron J, Defer G, Kwiatkowski A, Leray E, Maillart E, Marignier R, Mathey G, Morel N, Thouvenot E, Zéphir H, Boucher J, Boutière C, Branger P, Da Silva A, Demortière S, Guillaume M, Hebant B, Januel E, Kerbrat A, Manchon E, Moisset X, Montcuquet A, Pierret C, Pique J, Poupart J, Prunis C, Roux T, Schmitt P, Androdias G, Cohen M. Cancer and multiple sclerosis: 2023 recommendations from the French Multiple Sclerosis Society. Mult Scler 2024; 30:899-924. [PMID: 38357870 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231223880] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological data reveal that 45% of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in France are more than 50 years. This population more than 50 is more susceptible to cancer, and this risk may be increased by frequent use of immunosuppressive drugs. Consequently, concerns have arisen about the potential increased risk of cancer in PwMS and how patients should be screened and managed in terms of cancer risk. OBJECTIVE To develop evidence-based recommendations to manage the coexistence of cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS The French Group for Recommendations in MS collected articles from PubMed and university databases covering the period January 1975 through June 2022. The RAND/UCLA method was employed to achieve formal consensus. MS experts comprehensively reviewed the full-text articles and developed the initial recommendations. A group of multidisciplinary health care specialists then validated the final proposal. RESULTS Five key questions were addressed, encompassing various topics such as cancer screening before or after initiating a disease-modifying therapy (DMT), appropriate management of MS in the context of cancer, recommended follow-up for cancer in patients receiving a DMT, and the potential reintroduction of a DMT after initial cancer treatment. A strong consensus was reached for all 31 recommendations. CONCLUSION These recommendations propose a strategic approach to managing cancer risk in PwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Collongues
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Center for Clinical Investigation, INSERM U1434, Strasbourg, France
- Biopathology of Myelin, Neuroprotection and Therapeutic Strategy, INSERM U1119, Strasbourg, France
- Department of Pharmacology, Addictology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, Strasbourg University, Strasbourg, France
| | - Françoise Durand-Dubief
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Christine Lebrun-Frenay
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nice, Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, UMR2CA-URRIS, Nice, France
| | - Bertrand Audoin
- Department of Neurology, CRMBM, APHM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Xavier Ayrignac
- Department of Neurology, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- INM, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Bensa
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Kévin Bigaut
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Biopathology of Myelin, Neuroprotection and Therapeutic Strategy, INSERM U1119, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Jonathan Ciron
- CHU de Toulouse, CRC-SEP, Department of Neurology, Toulouse, France
- Université Toulouse III, Infinity, INSERM UMR1291-CNRS UMR5051, Toulouse, France
| | - Gilles Defer
- Department of Neurology, Caen University Hospital, Caen, France
| | - Arnaud Kwiatkowski
- Department of Neurology, Lille Catholic University, Lille Catholic Hospitals, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Leray
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, CNRS, INSERM, ARENES-UMR 6051, RSMS-U1309, Rennes, France
| | | | - Romain Marignier
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Guillaume Mathey
- Department of Neurology, Nancy University Hospital, Nancy, France
| | - Nathalie Morel
- Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier Annecy Genevois, Epagny-Metz-Tessy, France
| | - Eric Thouvenot
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Hélène Zéphir
- University of Lille, INSERM U1172, CHU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Julie Boucher
- Department of Neurology, CHU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Clémence Boutière
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Branger
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Angélique Da Silva
- Breast Cancer Unit, Centre François Baclesse, Institut Normand du Sein, Caen, France
| | - Sarah Demortière
- Department of Neurology, CRMBM, APHM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Edouard Januel
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France/Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Département de Santé Publique, Paris, France
- Département de Neurologie, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Anne Kerbrat
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Rennes, France
- EMPENN U1228, INSERM-INRIA, Rennes, France
| | - Eric Manchon
- Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier de Gonesse, Gonesse, France
| | - Xavier Moisset
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, INSERM, Neuro-Dol, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Chloé Pierret
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, CNRS, INSERM, ARENES-UMR 6051, RSMS U-1309, Rennes, France
| | - Julie Pique
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Julien Poupart
- Department of Neurology and U995-LIRIC-Lille Inflammation Research International Center, INSERM, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Chloé Prunis
- Department of Neurology, Nancy University Hospital, Nancy, France
| | - Thomas Roux
- Hôpital La Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie, Paris, France
- CRC-SEP Paris. Centre des maladies inflammatoires rares du cerveau et de la moelle de l'enfant et de l'adulte (Mircem)
| | | | - Géraldine Androdias
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
- Clinique de la Sauvegarde-Ramsay Santé, Lyon, France
| | - Mikael Cohen
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nice, Nice, France/Université Côte d'Azur, UMR2CA-URRIS, Nice, France
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Guger M, Enzinger C, Leutmezer F, Di Pauli F, Kraus J, Kalcher S, Kvas E, Berger T. Early intensive versus escalation treatment in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Austria. J Neurol 2024; 271:3142-3152. [PMID: 38430270 PMCID: PMC11136709 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12256-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the effectiveness of early intensive treatment (EIT) versus escalation treatment (ESC) in a nationwide observational cohort of almost 1000 people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). MATERIALS AND METHODS The EIT cohort started with alemtuzumab (AZM), cladribine (CLAD), fingolimod (FTY), natalizumab (NTZ), ocrelizumab (OCR), or ozanimod (OZA); whereas, the ESC cohort was escalated from dimethylfumarate (DMF) or teriflunomide (TERI) to AZM, CLAD, FTY, NTZ, OCR, or OZA within the Austrian MS Treatment Registry. Patients had to stay on therapy for at least 3 months and up to 16 years. The EIT cohort included 743 and the ESC cohort 227 RRMS patients. We used multinomial propensity scores for inverse probability weighting in generalized linear (GLM) and Cox proportional hazards models to correct for the bias of this non-randomized registry study. RESULTS Estimated mean annualized relapse rates (ARR) were 0.09 for EIT and 0.4 for ESC patients. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) in the GLM model for relapses showed a decreased relapse probability of 78% for the EIT versus ESC cohort [IRR = 0.22, 95% CI (0.16-0.30), p < 0.001]. Analyzing the time to the first relapse by Cox regression, a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.17 [95% CI (0.13-0.22), p < 0.001] revealed a decreased risk of 83% for the EIT group. Regarding sustained Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) progression for 12 weeks, a HR of 0.55 [95% CI (0.40-0.76), p < 0.001] showed a decreased probability of 45% for the EIT cohort. CONCLUSIONS ESC treatment after DMF and TERI revealed a higher relapse and EDSS progression probability compared to EIT in Austrian RRMS patients. Therefore, an early intensive treatment should be started in patients with an active or highly active disease course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Guger
- Department of Neurology, Pyhrn-Eisenwurzen Hospital Steyr, Sierninger Straße 170, 4400, Steyr, Austria.
- Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria.
| | | | - Fritz Leutmezer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Di Pauli
- Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jörg Kraus
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University and Salzburger Landeskliniken, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Meca-Lallana JE, Álvarez-Cermeño JC, Casanova Estruch B, Izquierdo Ayuso G, Ortiz Castillo R, Rodríguez-Antigüedad A, Calles Hernández C. Early beginning of alemtuzumab: Changing the multiple sclerosis treatment paradigm. Interim analysis of the LEMVIDA study. Neurologia 2024; 39:383-391. [PMID: 37116693 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION LEMVIDA is a real-world prospective study of 3-year follow-up on quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving alemtuzumab in Spain. METHODS This is an interim analysis evaluating the baseline characteristics of patients who started alemtuzumab between October 2016-September 2018. For 3 additional subanalysis patients were categorised by baseline EDSS score; time of alemtuzumab initiation during the recruitment period (cohort 1: October 2016-March 2017, cohort 2: April-September 2017, cohort 3: October 2017-March 2018 and cohort 4: April-September 2018); and the presence of highly active MS criteria. RESULTS 161 patients were analysed: 67.1% female, age 38.7 ± 9.4 years, MS duration 8.5 ± 6.0 years, EDSS 3.3 ± 1.7 and number of relapses in the previous 2 years 1.8 ± 1.3. 48.3% of patients presented gadolinium-enhanced (Gd+) lesions (mean: 5.2 ± 6.9) and 63.1% had received prior treatment with fingolimod or natalizumab. Baseline EDSS scores and number of Gd+ lesions were higher in cohort 1 than in cohort 4 (4.1 ± 1.8 vs 3.2 ± 1.7; P = .040 and 10.9 ± 11.9 vs 4.5 ± 5.7; P = .020). The frequency of prior treatment with fingolimod and natalizumab was lower in cohort 4 (60.6%) than in cohort 1 (70.6%) (comparison between groups not analysed). CONCLUSIONS Unlike phase 3 studies of alemtuzumab, the patients included in LEMVIDA are older, have a longer duration of MS, higher disability and have received previous immunosuppressants. However, throughout the recruitment period, there is a tendency towards an early beginning of treatment with alemtuzumab, probably due to the evidence of higher effectiveness in the early stages of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Meca-Lallana
- CSUR Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain; Cátedra de Neuroinmunología Clínica y Esclerosis Múltiple, UCAM-Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | - J C Álvarez-Cermeño
- Unidad de Esclerosis Múltiple. Instituto de Investigación Ramón y Cajal, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - B Casanova Estruch
- Unidad de Neuroinmunología Clínica, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - G Izquierdo Ayuso
- Unidad de Investigación y Tratamiento de la Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Vithas Nisa, Sevilla, Spain
| | | | | | - C Calles Hernández
- Unidad de Esclerosis Múltiple. Hospital Universitario Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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Leibowitz SM, Manickam V, Srivastava V, Kan G. A case of relapsing anti-GBM disease secondary to alemtuzumab therapy. CEN Case Rep 2024; 13:209-214. [PMID: 37943475 PMCID: PMC11144173 DOI: 10.1007/s13730-023-00822-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the first case of relapsing anti-GBM disease secondary to alemtuzumab in a 24-year-old female with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Initial anti-GBM disease was detected 10 months after alemtuzumab was given and was diagnosed by demonstrating high anti-GBM antibody titers and with a confirmatory kidney biopsy. The patient presented with a rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis with no pulmonary involvement. After appropriate treatment, the patient went into remission with undetectable anti-GBM antibodies. However, 20 months later, the patient re-presented with relapsing anti-GBM disease. Despite aggressive treatment, the patient became dialysis-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia M Leibowitz
- Nephrology Department, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Australia.
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Valli Manickam
- Nephrology Department, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Australia
| | | | - George Kan
- Nephrology Department, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Australia
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de Seze J, Dive D, Ayrignac X, Castelnovo G, Payet M, Rayah A, Gobbi C, Vermersch P, Zecca C. Narrative Review on the Use of Cladribine Tablets as Exit Therapy for Stable Elderly Patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Neurol Ther 2024; 13:519-533. [PMID: 38587749 PMCID: PMC11136913 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-024-00603-y] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of ageing people with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) is increasing. The efficacy of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for RMS declines with age. Also, older persons with MS may be more susceptible to infections, hospitalisations and malignancy. Aging people with MS have higher rates of comorbidities versus aged-matched controls, increasing the individual risk of disability. We review the therapeutic properties of cladribine tablets (CladT) in ageing people with RMS, with regard to their utility for allowing these individuals to cease continuous administration of a DMT (i.e. to act as an "exit therapy"). CladT is thought to be an immune reconstitution therapy, in that two short courses of oral treatment 1 year apart provide suppression of MS disease activity in responders that far outlasts the duration of treatment and post-treatment reductions in lymphocyte counts. Post hoc analyses, long-term follow-up of populations with RMS in randomised trials, and real-world evidence suggest that the efficacy of CladT is probably independent of age, although more data in the elderly are still needed. No clear adverse signals for lymphopenia or other adverse safety signals have emerged with increasing age, although immunosenescence in the setting of age-related "inflammaging" may predispose elderly patients to a higher risk of infections. Updating vaccination status is recommended, especially against pneumococci and herpes zoster for older patients, to minimise the risk of these infections. CladT may be a useful alternative treatment for ageing people with MS who often bear a burden of multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy and who are more exposed to the adverse effects of continuous immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome de Seze
- Department of Neurology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Dominique Dive
- Department of Neurology, Liège University Hospital, Liège, Belgium
| | - Xavier Ayrignac
- Department of Neurology, University of Montpellier, INM, INSERM, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Giovanni Castelnovo
- Department of Neurology, Nîmes University Hospital, Hopital Caremeau, Nîmes, France
| | - Marianne Payet
- Merck Santé S.A.S., an Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Lyon, France
| | - Amel Rayah
- Merck Santé S.A.S., an Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Lyon, France
| | - Claudio Gobbi
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- University of Lille, INSERM U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, Lille, France
| | - Chiara Zecca
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, EOC, Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università Della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
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Singer BA, Feng J, Chiong-Rivero H. Early use of high-efficacy therapies in multiple sclerosis in the United States: benefits, barriers, and strategies for encouraging adoption. J Neurol 2024; 271:3116-3130. [PMID: 38615277 PMCID: PMC11136864 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12305-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by progressive neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration from disease onset that, if left untreated, can result in the accumulation of irreversible neurological disability. Early intervention with high-efficacy therapies (HETs) is increasingly recognized as the best strategy to delay or mitigate disease progression from the earliest stages of the disease and to prevent long-term neurodegeneration. Although there is growing clinical and real-world evidence supporting early HET intervention, foregoing this strategy in favor of a traditional escalation approach prioritizing lower-efficacy disease-modifying therapies remains a common approach in clinical practice. This review explores potential health care professional- and patient-related barriers to the early use of HETs in patients with MS in the United States. Barriers can include regulatory and reimbursement restrictions; knowledge gaps and long-term safety concerns among health care professionals; and various individual, cultural, and societal factors affecting patients. Potential strategies for overcoming these barriers and encouraging early HET use are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry A Singer
- The MS Center for Innovations in Care, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Jenny Feng
- Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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Moser T, Foettinger F, Hitzl W, Novotna B, Berger T, Bsteh G, Di Pauli F, Hegen H, Kornek B, Langenscheidt D, Sellner J. Alemtuzumab treatment for multiple sclerosis in Austria: An observational long-term outcome study. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:1442-1455. [PMID: 38715245 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Observational real-world study to analyze the clinical effects of alemtuzumab (ALEM) and subsequent disease-modifying therapy (DMT) usage in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS Data retrieved from the Austrian MS treatment registry (AMSTR) included baseline (BL) characteristics (at ALEM start), annualized relapse rate (ARR), 6-month confirmed progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA; ≥ 0.5-point Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score increase), 6-month confirmed disability improvement (CDI; ≥ 0.5-point EDSS decrease), and safety outcomes until initiation of a subsequent DMT. The EDSS was re-baselined at 30 days from ALEM start (BL EDSS). RESULTS Eighty-seven ALEM-treated patients (median age: 32 years, 72% female, 14% treatment-naïve) were followed for a median of 55 (interquartile range 31-68) months. We found significant reductions in the ARR from 1.16 before ALEM to 0.15 throughout Years 1-9 (p < 0.001). Subsequent DMTs were initiated in 19 patients (22%, 74% anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies). At Year 5 (n = 53), more patients achieved CDI (58%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 45%-71%) than had experienced PIRA (14%, CI 7.5%-24%), and 58% remained relapse-free. Shorter MS duration (p < 0.001, hazard ratio (HR) 0.86 (CI 0.80-0.93)) and no previous high-efficacy treatment (p < 0.001, HR 5.16 (CI 2.66-10.0)) were the best predictors of CDI, while PIRA was associated with a higher number of previous DMTs (p = 0.04, HR 3.06, CI 1.05-8.89). We found no new safety signals. INTERPRETATION ALEM had long-lasting beneficial effects on the ARR and disability improvement, especially when initiated early in the course of the disease. Only a subset of patients received subsequent DMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Moser
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler Medical Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabian Foettinger
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler Medical Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Paracelsus Medical University/Salzburger Landeskliniken (SALK), Salzburg, Austria
- Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Research and Innovation, Team Biostatistics and Publication of Clinical Trials, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Bianka Novotna
- Department of Neurology, Landesklinikum Mistelbach-Gänserndorf, Mistelbach, Austria
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology and Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, both Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriel Bsteh
- Department of Neurology and Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, both Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Di Pauli
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Harald Hegen
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Barbara Kornek
- Department of Neurology and Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, both Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Johann Sellner
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler Medical Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Landesklinikum Mistelbach-Gänserndorf, Mistelbach, Austria
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Immovilli P, Schiavetti I, Franceschini A, De Mitri P, Gelati L, Rota E, Guidetti D. Breakthrough COVID-19 in people with multiple sclerosis on disease modifying treatments: Is it still a severe disease? Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 85:105547. [PMID: 38518506 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disease modifying treatments (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) are effective in preventing both relapses and disability progression. Highly effective treatments (HETs) are more effective than platform therapy in preventing confirmed disability progression (CDP), when used early. Infections may complicate HETs administration, and their prevention through vaccination is crucial in order to assure the safety of people with MS (pwMS). The aim of the present study is to describe the effect of MS DMTs on COVID-19 vaccination and the risk of breakthrough infection in a cohort of pwMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a monocentric retrospective observational study conducted at the MS center of the Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital in Piacenza, Italy. One hundred and fifty-seven (157) pwMS who received two doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (with 80.3 % receiving a booster dose) were included in the study. RESULTS fifty-six pwMS (35.7 %) were females, the mean age was 48.6 (SD: 12.87) years, and 59 (37.6 %) had at least one comorbidity. Twenty-five (15.9 %) breakthrough infections were observed, with 17 (68.0 %) classified as mild and 8 (32.0 %) as moderate. A multivariable linear regression model confirmed that B-cell suppressor DMTs and EDSS were factors associated with the latest antibody titre. Patients treated with B-cell suppressors exhibited a risk almost four times higher for breakthrough infections compared to other patients, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.72 (95 % CI: 1.50 - 9.27) (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS B-cell suppressor DMTs are associated with the risk of breakthrough COVID-19 in our cohort, but vaccination fully protected pwMS against severe breakthrough disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Immovilli
- Neurology Unit, Emergency Department, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, via Taverna 38, Piacenza 29121, Italy.
| | - Irene Schiavetti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, via Pastore 1, Genoa 16132, Italy
| | - Alessandro Franceschini
- Neurology Unit, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Parma, via Abbeveratoia 4, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Paola De Mitri
- Neurology Unit, Emergency Department, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, via Taverna 38, Piacenza 29121, Italy
| | - Lorenza Gelati
- Neurology Unit, Emergency Department, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, via Taverna 38, Piacenza 29121, Italy
| | - Eugenia Rota
- Neurology Unit, San Giacomo Hospital, ASL Alessandria, via E. Raggio 12, Novi Ligure 15067, Italy
| | - Donata Guidetti
- Neurology Unit, Emergency Department, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, via Taverna 38, Piacenza 29121, Italy
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Hiramatsu K, Maeda H. Adult and pediatric relapsing multiple sclerosis phase II and phase III trial design and their primary end points: A systematic review. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13794. [PMID: 38708586 PMCID: PMC11070945 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
No systematic review of trial designs in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) was reported. This systematic review was conducted on the trial designs and primary end points (PEs) of phase II and III trials intended to modify the natural course of the disease in patients with RMS. The purpose of the study is to explore trends/topics and discussion points in clinical trial design and PE, comparing them to regulatory guidelines and expert recommendations. Three trial registration systems, ClinicalTrials.gov, the EU Clinical Trials Register, and the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, were used and 60 trials were evaluated. The dominant clinical trial design was a randomized controlled parallel-arms trial and other details were as follows: in adult phase III confirmatory trials (n = 32), active-controlled double-blind trial (DBT) (53%) and active-controlled open-label assessor-masking trial (16%); in adult phase II dose-finding trials (n = 9), placebo- and active-controlled DBT (44%), placebo-controlled DBT (22%), and placebo-controlled add-on DBT (22%); and in pediatric phase III confirmatory trials (n = 8), active-controlled DBT (38%) and active-controlled open-label non-masking trial (25%). The most common PEs were as follows: in adult confirmatory trials, annual relapse rate (ARR) (56%) and no evidence of disease activity-3 (NEDA-3) (13%); in adult dose-finding trials, the cumulative number of T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions (56%), combined unique active lesions (22%), and overall disability response score (22%); and in pediatric confirmatory trials, ARR (38%) and time to first relapse (25%). It was suggested that some parts of the regulatory guidelines and expert recommendations need to be revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsutoshi Hiramatsu
- Department of Regulatory Science, Faculty of PharmacyMeiji Pharmaceutical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Hideki Maeda
- Department of Regulatory Science, Faculty of PharmacyMeiji Pharmaceutical UniversityTokyoJapan
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11
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Ren F, Yang C, Feng K, Shang Q, Liu J, Kang X, Wang X, Wang X. An exploration of causal relationships between nine neurological diseases and the risk of breast cancer: a Mendelian randomization study. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7101-7118. [PMID: 38663930 PMCID: PMC11087125 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some preceding researches have observed that certain neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, may affect breast cancer risk. However, whether there are causal relationships between these neurological conditions and breast cancer is inconclusive. This study was designed to explore whether neurological disorders affected the risks of breast cancer overall and of the two subtypes (ER+ and ER-). METHODS In the course of this study, genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for nine neurological diseases (Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, myasthenia gravis, generalized epilepsy, intracerebral haemorrhage, cerebral atherosclerosis, brain glioblastoma, and benign meningeal tumour) were collected from the Complex Trait Genetics lab and the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) extensively associated with these neurological ailments had been recognized as instrumental variables (IVs). GWAS data on breast cancer were collected from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC). Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses as well as multivariable MR analyses were performed to determine whether these SNPs contributed to breast cancer risk. Additionally, the accuracy of the results was evaluated using the false discovery rate (FDR) multiple correction method. Both heterogeneity and pleiotropy were evaluated by analyzing sensitivities. RESULTS According to the results of two-sample MR analyses, Alzheimer's disease significantly reduced the risks of overall (OR 0.925, 95% CI [0.871-0.982], P = 0.011) and ER+ (OR 0.912, 95% CI [0.853-0.975], P = 0.007) breast cancer, but there was a negative result in ER- breast cancer. However, after multiple FDR corrections, the effect of Alzheimer's disease on overall breast cancer was not statistically significant. In contrast, multiple sclerosis significantly increased ER+ breast cancer risk (OR 1.007, 95% CI [1.003-1.011], P = 0.001). In addition, the multivariable MR analyses showed that Alzheimer's disease significantly reduced the risk of ER+ breast cancer (IVW: OR 0.929, 95% CI [0.864-0.999], P=0.047; MR-Egger: OR 0.916, 95% CI [0.846-0.992], P=0.031); however, multiple sclerosis significantly increased the risk of ER+ breast cancer (IVW: OR 1.008, 95% CI [1.003-1.012], P=4.35×10-4; MR-Egger: OR 1.008, 95% CI [1.003-1.012], P=5.96×10-4). There were no significant associations between the remainder of the neurological diseases and breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS This study found the trends towards a decreased risk of ER+ breast cancer in patients with Alzheimer's disease and an increased risk in patients with multiple sclerosis. However, due to the limitations of Mendelian randomization, we cannot determine whether there are definite causal relationships between neurological diseases and breast cancer risk. For conclusive evidences, more prospective randomized controlled trials will be needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Ren
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chenxuan Yang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Kexin Feng
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Qingyao Shang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Jiaxiang Liu
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xiyu Kang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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12
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van Pesch V, Hanganu AR, Sankari SE. Long-term follow up of alemtuzumab-treated patients: a retrospective study in a Belgian tertiary care center. Acta Neurol Belg 2024:10.1007/s13760-024-02542-9. [PMID: 38619747 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02542-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pivotal studies have reported a significant proportion of patients achieving no evidence of disease activity (NEDA) after 2 cycles of treatment with alemtuzumab (ATZ), that can be maintained for several years. Long-term real-world evidence regarding ATZ as well as subsequent treatment trajectories is still scarce. OBJECTIVE To analyze the effectiveness and safety of ATZ-treated patients in a tertiary care Belgian center. METHODS A retrospective cohort study including 32 patients treated with ATZ between 2015 and 2021 was performed. RESULTS 32 patients received 2 ATZ courses with a mean follow-up (FU) duration of 5.6 years (range: 2.25-8.2). 21.75% patients were treatment naïve. 40.5% were previously treated with natalizumab or fingolimod. NEDA-3 was achieved in 61.3-85% of patients, with failure mostly attributed to recurrence of radiological disease activity. During FU, annualized relapse rates remained very low (0.06-0.14), disability improvement occurred in up to 40.5%, whereas disability worsening occurred in up to 13.5%. Retreatment risk was associated with younger age (< 45 years old, Odds Ratio 8.0, p = 0.02) and a higher number of previous DMTs (Hazard ratio 2.7, 95%CI 1.3-7.4, p = 0.02). Safety in our cohort was consistent with the known profile of ATZ. At the end of FU, 65.6% patients remained untreated after 2 or 3 courses of ATZ, while the remaining switched to anti-CD20 therapy or cladribine. CONCLUSION ATZ is a high efficacy therapy for active MS, providing long-term remission in a significant proportion of patients. Retreatment was more frequent in younger patients or patients having failed a higher number of previous DMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent van Pesch
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (Neurology), UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Andreea-Raluca Hanganu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Neurology Department, Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Souraya El Sankari
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (Neurology), UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
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13
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Kalincik T, Roos I, Sharmin S, Malpas CB. Methodological considerations for observational studies of treatment effectiveness in neurology: a clinician's guide. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:454-460. [PMID: 37890986 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-330038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Data from cohorts, registries, randomised trials, electronic medical records and administrative claims databases have increasingly been used to inform the use of therapies for neurological diseases. While novel sophisticated methods are enabling us to use existing data to guide treatment decisions, the complexity of statistical methodology is making appraisal of clinical evidence increasingly demanding. In this narrative review, we provide a brief overview of the most commonly used methods for evaluation of treatment effectiveness in neurology. This primer discusses complementarity of randomised and non-randomised study designs, sources of observational data, different forms of bias and the appropriate mitigation strategies, statistical significance, Bayesian approaches and provides an overview of multivariable regression models, propensity score-based models, causal inference, mediation analysis and Mendelian randomisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Kalincik
- CORe, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Izanne Roos
- CORe, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sifat Sharmin
- CORe, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charles B Malpas
- CORe, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Neuroimmunology Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Fernández Ó, Sörensen PS, Comi G, Vermersch P, Hartung HP, Leocani L, Berger T, Van Wijmeersch B, Oreja-Guevara C. Managing multiple sclerosis in individuals aged 55 and above: a comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379538. [PMID: 38646534 PMCID: PMC11032020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) management in individuals aged 55 and above presents unique challenges due to the complex interaction between aging, comorbidities, immunosenescence, and MS pathophysiology. This comprehensive review explores the evolving landscape of MS in older adults, including the increased incidence and prevalence of MS in this age group, the shift in disease phenotypes from relapsing-remitting to progressive forms, and the presence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy. We aim to provide an updated review of the available evidence of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) in older patients, including the efficacy and safety of existing therapies, emerging treatments such as Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTKs) inhibitors and those targeting remyelination and neuroprotection, and the critical decisions surrounding the initiation, de-escalation, and discontinuation of DMTs. Non-pharmacologic approaches, including physical therapy, neuromodulation therapies, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy, are also examined for their role in holistic care. The importance of MS Care Units and advance care planning are explored as a cornerstone in providing patient-centric care, ensuring alignment with patient preferences in the disease trajectory. Finally, the review emphasizes the need for personalized management and continuous monitoring of MS patients, alongside advocating for inclusive study designs in clinical research to improve the management of this growing patient demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Óscar Fernández
- Departament of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; Institute of Biomedical Research of Malaga (IBIMA), Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology and Pediatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Per Soelberg Sörensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Univ. Lille, Inserm U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, Lille, France
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Brain and Mind Center, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bart Van Wijmeersch
- University MS Centre, Hasselt-Pelt, Belgium
- Rehabilitation and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Noorderhart Hospitals, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Freedman MS, Coyle PK, Hellwig K, Singer B, Wynn D, Weinstock-Guttman B, Markovic-Plese S, Galazka A, Dangond F, Korich J, Reder AT. Twenty Years of Subcutaneous Interferon-Beta-1a for Multiple Sclerosis: Contemporary Perspectives. Neurol Ther 2024; 13:283-322. [PMID: 38206453 PMCID: PMC10951191 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00565-7] [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] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), the most common form of the disease, is characterized by transient neurological dysfunction with concurrent accumulation of disability. Over the past three decades, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) capable of reducing the frequency of relapses and slowing disability worsening have been studied and approved for use in patients with RRMS. The first DMTs were interferon-betas (IFN-βs), which were approved in the 1990s. Among them was IFN-β-1a for subcutaneous (sc) injection (Rebif®), which was approved for the treatment of MS in Europe and Canada in 1998 and in the USA in 2002. Twenty years of clinical data and experience have supported the efficacy and safety of IFN-β-1a sc in the treatment of RRMS, including pivotal trials, real-world data, and extension studies lasting up to 15 years past initial treatment. Today, IFN-β-1a sc remains an important therapeutic option in clinical use, especially around pregnancy planning and lactation, and may also be considered for aging patients, in which MS activity declines and long-term immunosuppression associated with some alternative therapies is a concern. In addition, IFN-β-1a sc is used as a comparator in many clinical studies and provides a framework for research into the mechanisms by which MS begins and progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Freedman
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada.
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada.
| | - Patricia K Coyle
- Department of Neurology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, New York, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University, 44787, Bochum, Germany
| | - Barry Singer
- The MS Center for Innovations in Care, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, 3009 N. Ballas Road, Suite 105B, St. Louis, MO, 63131, USA
| | - Daniel Wynn
- Neurology MS Center, Consultants in Neurology, Ltd, 1535 Lake Cook Road, Suite 601, Northbrook, IL, 60062, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14215, USA
- Jacobs MS Center for Treatment and Research, Buffalo, NY, 14202, USA
- Pediatric MS Center, NY State MS Consortium, 1010 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Silva Markovic-Plese
- Division of Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut St, Rm 305-B, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | | | - Fernando Dangond
- EMD Serono Research & Development Institute Inc., an affiliate of Merck GKaA, Billerica, MA, 01821, USA
| | - Julie Korich
- EMD Serono Inc., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Rockland, MA, 02370, USA
| | - Anthony T Reder
- Department of Neurology A-205, University of Chicago Medicine, MC-2030, 5841 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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Mascarenas-Garcia M, Rivero-de-Aguilar A, Pérez-Ríos M, Ruano-Raviña A, Llaneza-Gonzalez MA, Candal-Pedreira C, Rey-Brandariz J, Varela-Lema L. Best practices in phase III clinical trials on DMTs for multiple sclerosis: a systematic analysis and appraisal of published trials. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:333-341. [PMID: 37541785 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-331733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Great advances have been made in the field of multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy due to the publication of numerous randomised clinical trials (RCTs). In this study, we carried out a critical appraisal of phase III RCTs of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS published after 2010, intending to identify critical areas of improvement. METHODS We performed a systematic search of published RCTs on MS from January 2010 until December 2021. RCTs were assessed using an ad-hoc tool. This tool was developed based on existing generic methodological instruments and MS-specific guidelines and methodological papers. It included 14 items grouped in 5 domains: methodological quality, adequacy and measurement of outcomes, adverse event reporting, applicability and relevance of results, and transparency and conflict of interest. RESULTS We identified 31 phase III RCTs. Most of them were fully compliant in terms of sample size (87%), randomisation (68%), blinding (61%), participant selection (68%), adverse event reporting (84%) and clinical relevance (52%). Only a few were compliant in terms of participant description (6%), comparison (42%), attrition bias (26%), adequacy of outcome measures (26%), applicability (23%), transparency (36%) and conflict of interest (6%). None were compliant in terms of analysis and reporting of outcomes. The most common limitations related to the absence of comorbidity data, unjustified use of placebo, inadequacy of outcomes design and absence of protocol and/or prospective registration. CONCLUSIONS RCTs for DMTs in MS have relevant and frequent limitations. These should be addressed to enhance their quality, transparency and external validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Mascarenas-Garcia
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University Hospital Complex of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alejandro Rivero-de-Aguilar
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Complex of Pontevedra, Pontevedra, Spain
| | - Mónica Pérez-Ríos
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Ruano-Raviña
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Cristina Candal-Pedreira
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Julia Rey-Brandariz
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Leonor Varela-Lema
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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17
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Salter A, Lancia S, Kowalec K, Fitzgerald KC, Marrie RA. Investigating the Prevalence of Comorbidity in Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trial Populations. Neurology 2024; 102:e209135. [PMID: 38350062 PMCID: PMC11067694 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Comorbidity is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) with the most prevalent conditions being depression, anxiety, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Limited information regarding the representation of comorbidity status is available from phase III clinical trials in MS leading to concern about the potential underrepresentation of individuals with comorbidity in clinical trials. The objective was to estimate the prevalence of comorbidities in MS clinical trial populations. METHODS Individual-level data from multiple sponsors were requested for a 2-stage meta-analysis of phase III clinical trials of MS disease-modifying therapies. To ensure consistency of our approach across trials, we followed the Maelstrom retrospective harmonization guidelines. Chronic comorbidities at clinical trial enrollment recommended by the International Advisory Committee on Clinical Trials in MS were considered (depression, anxiety, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, migraine, diabetes, chronic lung disease). Additional comorbidities were also classified. Classification was based on medical history data. Individual comorbidities were summed and categorized as 0, 1, 2, or ≥3. We report the pooled prevalence (95% confidence interval [95% CI]) of comorbidity. The pooled prevalence and prevalence ratios across age, sex, race, disability level, and treatment were also reported. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. RESULTS Seventeen trials involving 17,926 participants were included. Fourteen trials enrolled participants with relapsing MS (RMS) while 3 enrolled participants with progressive MS (PMS). The distributions of sex, age, and disability level were generally consistent within RMS and PMS trials. When pooled, almost half of trial participants (46.5%) had ≥1 comorbidity (1: 25.0%, 95% CI 23.0-27.0, I2 = 89.9; 2: 11.4% [9.3-14.0], I2 = 96.3; ≥3: 6.0% [4.2-8.4], I2 = 97.7). Depression (16.45% [12.96-20.88], I2 = 98.3) was the most prevalent comorbidity reported, followed by hypertension (10.16% [8.61-11.98], I2 = 93.2). Heterogeneity was high across trials. Older age and female participants were associated with increased number of comorbidities. Older individuals and male participants had a higher prevalence of hyperlipidemia, while older individuals and female participants had a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety. DISCUSSION Individuals with comorbidities are included in clinical trials, although they may still be underrepresented compared with the general MS population. Given the comorbidity prevalence in the trial populations and studies suggesting an association of comorbidities with disease activity, comorbidity may influence outcomes in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Salter
- From the Department of Neurology (A.S., S.L.), Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; College of Pharmacy (K.K.), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (K.K.), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Department of Neurology (K.C.F.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Samantha Lancia
- From the Department of Neurology (A.S., S.L.), Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; College of Pharmacy (K.K.), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (K.K.), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Department of Neurology (K.C.F.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Kaarina Kowalec
- From the Department of Neurology (A.S., S.L.), Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; College of Pharmacy (K.K.), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (K.K.), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Department of Neurology (K.C.F.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Kathryn C Fitzgerald
- From the Department of Neurology (A.S., S.L.), Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; College of Pharmacy (K.K.), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (K.K.), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Department of Neurology (K.C.F.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Ruth Ann Marrie
- From the Department of Neurology (A.S., S.L.), Section on Statistical Planning and Analysis, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; College of Pharmacy (K.K.), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (K.K.), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Department of Neurology (K.C.F.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences (R.A.M.), Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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18
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Barroso A, Estevinho F, Hespanhol V, Teixeira E, Ramalho-Carvalho J, Araújo A. Management of infusion-related reactions in cancer therapy: strategies and challenges. ESMO Open 2024; 9:102922. [PMID: 38452439 PMCID: PMC10937241 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2024.102922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Several anticancer therapies have the potential to cause infusion-related reactions (IRRs) in the form of adverse events that typically occur within minutes to hours after drug infusion. IRRs can range in severity from mild to severe anaphylaxis-like reactions. Careful monitoring at infusion initiation, prompt recognition, and appropriate clinical assessment of the IRR and its severity, followed by immediate management, are required to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Lack of standardization in the prevention, management, and reporting of IRRs across cancer-treating institutions represents not only a quality and safety gap but also a disparity in cancer care. The present article, supported by recently published data, was developed to standardize these procedures across institutions and provide a useful tool for health care providers in clinical practice to recognize early signs and symptoms of an IRR and promptly and appropriately manage the event.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Barroso
- Multidisciplinary Unit of Thoracic Tumours, Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia e Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - F Estevinho
- Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - V Hespanhol
- Departamento de Medicina Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Department of Pulmonology, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - E Teixeira
- Lung Cancer Unit, CUF Descobertas, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - A Araújo
- Medical Oncology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Oncology Research Unit, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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19
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Yamout B, Al-Jumah M, Sahraian MA, Almalik Y, Khaburi JA, Shalaby N, Aljarallah S, Bohlega S, Dahdaleh M, Almahdawi A, Khoury SJ, Koussa S, Slassi E, Daoudi S, Aref H, Mrabet S, Zeineddine M, Zakaria M, Inshasi J, Gouider R, Alroughani R. Consensus recommendations for diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: 2023 revision of the MENACTRIMS guidelines. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105435. [PMID: 38245998 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
With evolving diagnostic criteria and the advent of new oral and parenteral therapies for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), most current diagnostic and treatment algorithms need revision and updating. The diagnosis of MS relies on incorporating clinical and paraclinical findings to prove dissemination in space and time and exclude alternative diseases that can explain the findings at hand. The differential diagnostic workup should be guided by clinical and laboratory red flags to avoid unnecessary tests. Appropriate selection of MS therapies is critical to maximize patient benefit. The current guidelines review the current diagnostic criteria for MS and the scientific evidence supporting treatment of acute relapses, radiologically isolated syndrome, clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting MS, progressive MS, pediatric cases and pregnant women. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide practical recommendations and algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of MS based on current scientific evidence and clinical experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Yamout
- Neurology Institute and Multiple Sclerosis Center, Harley Street Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - M Al-Jumah
- InterHealth hospital, Multiple Sclerosis Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - M A Sahraian
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Y Almalik
- Division of Neurology, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, National Guard Health Affairs, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - J Al Khaburi
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Hospital, Sultanate of Oman
| | - N Shalaby
- Neurology Department, Kasr Al-Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - S Bohlega
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - A Almahdawi
- Consultant Neurologist, Neurology Unit, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical City Complex, Iraq
| | - S J Khoury
- Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - S Koussa
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Geitaoui Lebanese University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - E Slassi
- Hôpital Cheikh Khalifa Ibn Zaid, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - S Daoudi
- Hospital Center Nedir Mohamed, Faculty of Medicine, University Mouloud Mammeri Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria
| | - H Aref
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - S Mrabet
- Department of Neurology, CIC, Razi Universitary Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Zeineddine
- Middle East and North Africa Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (MENACTRIMS), Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - J Inshasi
- Department of Neurology, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - R Gouider
- Department of Neurology, CIC, Razi Universitary Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - R Alroughani
- Amiri Hospital, Arabian Gulf Street, Sharq, Kuwait
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20
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Costa-Frossard França L, Meca Lallana V, Labiano-Fontcuberta A, Blasco R, Monreal E, Martínez Ginés ML, Aguirre C, Sabin Muñoz J, Sainz de la Maza S, Cuello JP, Díaz-Pérez C, Chico García JL, Lozano Ros A, Rodríguez Jorge F, Martínez Martínez S, García Domínguez JM. Real-World Retrospective Analysis of Alemtuzumab Outcomes in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: The LEMCAM Study. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:231-238. [PMID: 38418770 PMCID: PMC10920415 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01066-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alemtuzumab is a high-efficacy treatment approved for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Although clinical trials and observational studies are consistent in showing its efficacy and manageable safety profile, further studies under clinical practice conditions are needed to further support its clinical use. OBJECTIVE The aim of this observational retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of alemtuzumab to add to the current real-world evidence on the drug. METHODS A cohort of 115 adult patients with RRMS treated with alemtuzumab between 2014 and 2020 was retrospectively followed up in five centers in Spain. Analysis included annualized relapse rate (ARR), 6-month confirmed disability worsening (CDW), 6-month confirmed disability improvement (CDI), radiological activity, no evidence of disease activity (NEDA-3), and safety signals. Given the different follow-up periods among participants, ARR was calculated using the person-years method. CDI was defined as a ≥ 1.0-point decrease in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score assessed in patients with a baseline EDSS score ≥ 2.0 confirmed 6 months apart. CDW was defined as a ≥ 1.0-point increase in EDSS score assessed in patients with a baseline EDSS score ≥ 1.0 (≥ 1.5 if baseline EDSS = 0), confirmed 6 months apart. RESULTS ARR decreased from 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.60-2.33) in the year prior to alemtuzumab initiation to 0.28 (0.17-0.37) after 1 year of treatment (87% reduction), and to 0.22 (0.13-0.35) after the second year. Over the entire follow-up period, ARR was 0.24 (0.18-0.30). At year 1, 75% of patients showed no signs of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity and 70% at year 5. One percent of patients experienced 6-month CDW at year 1, 2.6% at year 2, 7.4% at year 3, and no patients over years 4 and 5. A total of 7.7% of patients achieved 6-month CDI in year 1, 3.6% in year 2, and maintained it at years 3 and 4. Most patients achieved annual NEDA-3: year 1, 72%; year 2, 79%; year 3, 80%; year 4, 89%; year 5, 75%. Infusion-related reactions were observed in 95% of patients and infections in 74%. Thyroid disorders occurred in 30% of patients, and only three patients developed immune thrombocytopenia. No cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy were reported. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that alemtuzumab reduced the relapse rate and disability worsening in real-world clinical practice, with many patients achieving and sustaining NEDA-3 over time. The safety profile of alemtuzumab was consistent with previous findings, and no new or unexpected safety signals were observed. As this was an observational and retrospective study, the main limitation of not having all variables comprehensively available for all patients should be considered when interpreting results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Virginia Meca Lallana
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Rosario Blasco
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enric Monreal
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- IRYCIS (Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research), Madrid, Spain
- REEM (Spanish Network of Multiple Sclerosis), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Clara Aguirre
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Sabin Muñoz
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Sainz de la Maza
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
- IRYCIS (Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research), Madrid, Spain
- REEM (Spanish Network of Multiple Sclerosis), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Pablo Cuello
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Díaz-Pérez
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Alberto Lozano Ros
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Brittain G, Petrie J, Duffy KEM, Glover R, Hullock K, Papaioannou D, Roldan E, Beecher C, Bursnall M, Ciccarelli O, Coles AJ, Cooper C, Giovannoni G, Gabriel I, Kazmi M, Kyriakou C, Nicholas R, Paling D, Peniket A, Scolding N, Silber E, de Silva T, Venneri A, Walters SJ, Young C, Muraro PA, Sharrack B, Snowden JA. Efficacy and safety of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation versus alemtuzumab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab or cladribine in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (StarMS): protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083582. [PMID: 38316583 PMCID: PMC10860024 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is increasingly used as treatment for patients with active multiple sclerosis (MS), typically after failure of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). A recent phase III trial, 'Multiple Sclerosis International Stem Cell Transplant, MIST', showed that aHSCT resulted in prolonged time to disability progression compared with DMTs in patients with relapsing remitting MS (RRMS). However, the MIST trial did not include many of the current high-efficacy DMTs (alemtuzumab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab or cladribine) in use in the UK within the control arm, which are now offered to patients with rapidly evolving severe MS (RES-MS) who are treatment naïve. There remain, therefore, unanswered questions about the relative efficacy and safety of aHSCT over these high-efficacy DMTs in these patient groups. The StarMS trial (Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation versus Alemtuzumab, Ocrelizumab, Ofatumumab or Cladribine in Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis) will assess the efficacy, safety and long-term impact of aHSCT compared with high-efficacy DMTs in patients with highly active RRMS despite the use of standard DMTs or in patients with treatment naïve RES-MS. METHODS AND ANALYSIS StarMS is a multicentre parallel-group rater-blinded randomised controlled trial with two arms. A total of 198 participants will be recruited from 19 regional neurology secondary care centres in the UK. Participants will be randomly allocated to the aHSCT arm or DMT arm in a 1:1 ratio. Participants will remain in the study for 2 years with follow-up visits at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months postrandomisation. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients who achieve 'no evidence of disease activity' during the 2-year postrandomisation follow-up period in an intention to treat analysis. Secondary outcomes include efficacy, safety, cost-effectiveness and immune reconstitution of aHSCT and the four high-efficacy DMTs. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved by the Yorkshire and Humber-Leeds West Research Ethics Committee (20/YH/0061). Participants will provide written informed consent prior to any study specific procedures. The study results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and abstracts will be submitted to relevant national and international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN88667898.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Brittain
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jennifer Petrie
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kate E M Duffy
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Rachel Glover
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Katie Hullock
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Diana Papaioannou
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Elisa Roldan
- Department of Haematology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Matthew Bursnall
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Olga Ciccarelli
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alasdair J Coles
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Cindy Cooper
- Clinical Trials Research Unit, Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Ian Gabriel
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - David Paling
- Department of Clinical Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Andy Peniket
- Department of Haematology, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Neil Scolding
- Neurology, University of Bristol Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, Bristol, UK
- Department of Neurology, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, Gloucester, UK
| | - Eli Silber
- Department of Neurology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Thushan de Silva
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- South Yorkshire Regional Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Annalena Venneri
- Brunel University London, London, UK
- University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stephen J Walters
- Division of Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Carolyn Young
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- University of Liverpool Institute of Systems Molecular and Integrative Biology, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paolo A Muraro
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Basil Sharrack
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - John A Snowden
- Department of Haematology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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22
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Braun B, Fischbach F, Richter J, Pfeffer LK, Fay H, Reinhardt S, Friese MA, Stellmann JP, Kröger NM, Heesen C, Häußler V. Benefits of aHSCT over alemtuzumab in patients with multiple sclerosis besides disability and relapses: Sustained improvement in cognition and quality of life. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 82:105414. [PMID: 38176284 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) exhibits promising results for multiple sclerosis (MS) in the short term. We investigated the long-term outcome differences in disease progression and cognitive impairment after aHSCT and alemtuzumab treatment. METHODS 20 patients receiving aHSCT and 21 patients treated with alemtuzumab between 2007 and 2020 were included in this monocentric observational cohort study. The primary objective was to compare the outcome of both groups with regards to achieving No Evidence of Disease Activity (NEDA-3), defined by the absence of relapses, EDSS progression, and MRI activity. Secondary endpoints in the study included the assessment of neurocognitive functioning, quality of life (QoL), Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC), and EDSS improvement. RESULTS Baseline characteristics between both groups were comparable, except for a longer disease duration in the alemtuzumab group of 11.3 years compared to 5.4 years in aHSCT-treated patients (p = 0.002) and a longer mean follow-up time in the aHSCT cohort of 9.0 (range 2.8-15.7) years compared to 5.9 years (range 0.9-9.2) in alemtuzumab patients. NEDA-3 was more frequently observed in the aHSCT group with 75.0 % and 55.0 % at five and 10 years, respectively, than in the alemtuzumab group with only 40.0 % at five years (p = 0.012). Relapse free survival was higher in the aHSCT group (p < 0.001). None of the aHSCT-treated patients showed new T2-lesions six months after therapy initiation until the end of the observational period in contrast to 35.0 % of the alemtuzumab-treated patients showing new T2-lesions (95 %CI 14.2-98.9, p = 0.002). aHSCT-treated patients showed significantly improved cognitive performance in five out of 12 cognitive tests whereas alemtuzumab treated patients deteriorated in four out of 12 tests. Quality of life remained on a constant level for up to 10 years in patients receiving aHSCT with improved scores for the subscale fatigue (p = 0.013). CONCLUSION aHSCT seems to be superior to alemtuzumab in maintaining long-term NEDA-3 status, improving cognition and stabilizing quality of life for up to 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Braun
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Felix Fischbach
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Johanna Richter
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Lena Kristina Pfeffer
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Heike Fay
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Stefanie Reinhardt
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Manuel A Friese
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Jan-P Stellmann
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany; APHM, Hopital de la Timone, CEMEREM, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, CRMBM, UMR 7339, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolaus M Kröger
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Vivien Häußler
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Falkenried 94, Hamburg 20251, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.
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23
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Abdelrahman A, Alvarez E. Advances in Multiple Sclerosis Neurotherapeutics, Neuroprotection, and Risk Mitigation Strategies. Neurol Clin 2024; 42:115-135. [PMID: 37980110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2023.08.002] [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: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) has advanced tremendously over the past few decades. More efficacious therapies have been approved, which can significantly reduce the inflammatory process of relapsing MS. Neuroprotection by controlling this pathophysiology is important given our current limitations to control progressive MS and induce neurorepair. Here, the authors discuss the current landscape of neurotherapeutics for relapsing MS focusing on newer disease-modifying treatments and their use. Risk mitigation of these medications can greatly improve their safety and improve their benefit-risk balance. The authors discuss treatment strategies for risk mitigation including treatment discontinuation and de-escalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Abdelrahman
- Department of Neurology, Rocky Mountain MS Center at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Enrique Alvarez
- Department of Neurology, Rocky Mountain MS Center at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
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24
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Bou Rjeily N, Mowry EM, Ontaneda D, Carlson AK. Highly Effective Therapy Versus Escalation Approaches in Early Multiple Sclerosis: What Is the Future of Multiple Sclerosis Treatment? Neurol Clin 2024; 42:185-201. [PMID: 37980115 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2023.06.004] [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: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Treatment options for patients newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) are expanding with the continuous development and approval of new disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). The optimal initial treatment strategy, however, remains unclear. The 2 main treatment paradigms currently employed are the escalation (ESC) approach and the early highly effective treatment (EHT) approach. The ESC approach consists of starting a lower- or moderate-efficacy DMT, which offers a potentially safer approach, while the EHT approach favors higher-efficacy treatment early in the disease course, despite a potential increase in risk. Randomized clinical trials aiming to directly compare these approaches in newly diagnosed MS patients are currently underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bou Rjeily
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Pathology 627, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Ellen M Mowry
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Pathology 627, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Pathology 627, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Daniel Ontaneda
- Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center, 9500 Euclid Avenue U10, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Alise K Carlson
- Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center, 9500 Euclid Avenue U10, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Gakis G, Angelopoulos I, Panagoulias I, Mouzaki A. Current knowledge on multiple sclerosis pathophysiology, disability progression assessment and treatment options, and the role of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103480. [PMID: 38008300 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects nearly 2.8 million people each year. MS distinguishes three main types: relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and primary progressive MS (PPMS). RRMS is the most common type, with the majority of patients eventually progressing to SPMS, in which neurological development is constant, whereas PPMS is characterized by a progressive course from disease onset. New or additional insights into the role of effector and regulatory cells of the immune and CNS systems, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, and the microbiome in the pathophysiology of MS have emerged, which may lead to the development of more targeted therapies that can halt or reverse neurodegeneration. Depending on the type and severity of the disease, various disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are currently used for RRMS/SPMS and PPMS. As a last resort, and especially in highly active RRMS that does not respond to DMTs, autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is performed and has shown good results in reducing neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, the question of its potential role in preventing disability progression remains open. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive update on MS pathophysiology, assessment of MS disability progression and current treatments, and to examine the potential role of AHSCT in preventing disability progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Gakis
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Angelopoulos
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioannis Panagoulias
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Laboratory of Immunohematology, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.
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Lee CY, Chan KH. Personalized Use of Disease-Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:120. [PMID: 38258130 PMCID: PMC10820407 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is an important neurological disease affecting millions of young patients globally. It is encouraging that more than ten disease-modifying drugs became available for use in the past two decades. These disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have different levels of efficacy, routes of administration, adverse effect profiles and concerns for pregnancy. Much knowledge and caution are needed for their appropriate use in MS patients who are heterogeneous in clinical features and severity, lesion load on magnetic resonance imaging and response to DMT. We aim for an updated review of the concept of personalization in the use of DMT for relapsing MS patients. Shared decision making with consideration for the preference and expectation of patients who understand the potential efficacy/benefits and risks of DMT is advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yan Lee
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, 405B, 4/F, Professorial Block, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
- Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation Research Laboratory, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Koon-Ho Chan
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, 405B, 4/F, Professorial Block, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
- Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation Research Laboratory, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Research Center of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Silfverberg T, Zjukovskaja C, Ljungman P, Nahimi A, Ahlstrand E, Dreimane A, Einarsdottir S, Fagius J, Iacobaeus E, Hägglund H, Lange N, Lenhoff S, Lycke J, Mellergård J, Piehl F, Svenningsson A, Tolf A, Cherif H, Carlson K, Burman J. Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Sweden: an observational cohort study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:125-133. [PMID: 37748927 PMCID: PMC10850659 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-331864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing evidence base supports the use of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) for treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), but it has not yet been integrated into most national clinical guidelines. The objective of this study was to assess efficacy and safety when aHSCT is implemented in routine healthcare. METHODS We assessed 231 patients and the final analysis included 174 RRMS patients who were treated with aHSCT in Sweden before 1 January 2020. Efficacy was evaluated by performing a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from the Swedish MS registry. Procedure-related safety was assessed by analysing data from electronic patient records covering a period of 100 days following aHSCT. RESULTS With a median follow-up time of 5.5 (IQR: 3.4-7.5) years, the Kaplan-Meier estimate for no evidence of disease activity was 73% (95% CI 66% to 81%) at 5 years and 65% (95% CI 57% to 75%) at 10 years. Out of the 149 patients with baseline disability, 80 (54%) improved, 55 (37%) were stable and 14 (9%) deteriorated. The mean number of adverse events per patient was 1.7 (±SD: 1.5) for grade 3 events and 0.06 (±SD: 0.3) for grade 4 events. Febrile neutropenia was the most common adverse event, affecting 68% of patients. There was no treatment-related mortality. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with aHSCT for RRMS is associated with freedom from disease activity in a majority of patients, with acceptable adverse events. This procedure should be considered a standard of care for patients with highly active RRMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Silfverberg
- Medical Sciences, Uppsala universitet Medicinska och farmaceutiska vetenskapsomradet, Uppsala, Sweden
- Center for Clinical Research Dalarna, Falun, Sweden
| | | | - Per Ljungman
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cellular Therapy and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adjmal Nahimi
- Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Memory Disorders, and Geriatrics, Skåne University Hospital Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Ahlstrand
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Arta Dreimane
- Department of Hematology, Linköping University Hospital, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Sigrun Einarsdottir
- Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Hematology and Coagulation, Sahlgrenska Sjukhuset, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan Fagius
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ellen Iacobaeus
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hans Hägglund
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Cellular Therapy and Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niclas Lange
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Stig Lenhoff
- Department of Hematology, Oncology & Radiophysics, Skåne University Hospital Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jan Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Mellergård
- Department of Neurology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Svenningsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska Institutet Institutionen för kliniska vetenskaper Danderyds sjukhus, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Tolf
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Honar Cherif
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kristina Carlson
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joachim Burman
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Edinger A, Habibi M. The evolution of multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies: An update for pharmacists. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2024; 81:37-55. [PMID: 37777869 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxad247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiple sclerosis (MS) and the evolution of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and their indications, mechanisms of action, efficacy, pregnancy class, and cost are discussed. SUMMARY MS is an immune-mediated, demyelinating, and progressive neurological disorder that can cause both motor and cognitive deficits. Onset of MS typically occurs between the ages of 20 and 40 years, and the disease can result in significant disability over time. Since the introduction of the first DMT for the treatment of MS in 1993, significant progress has been made in the development of new classes of DMTs with different mechanisms of action, higher efficacy, and simpler administration schedules, offering patients better alternatives. However, drawbacks with the use of DMTs include their increasing cost and formulary restrictions. CONCLUSION The treatment landscape of MS has significantly changed over the past 2 decades, and the introduction of newer classes of DMTs provides an opportunity for pharmacists to play an important role in the management of this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitra Habibi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Department of Neurology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Gonzalez-Lorenzo M, Ridley B, Minozzi S, Del Giovane C, Peryer G, Piggott T, Foschi M, Filippini G, Tramacere I, Baldin E, Nonino F. Immunomodulators and immunosuppressants for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 1:CD011381. [PMID: 38174776 PMCID: PMC10765473 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011381.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different therapeutic strategies are available for the treatment of people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), including immunomodulators, immunosuppressants and biological agents. Although each one of these therapies reduces relapse frequency and slows disability accumulation compared to no treatment, their relative benefit remains unclear. This is an update of a Cochrane review published in 2015. OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy and safety, through network meta-analysis, of interferon beta-1b, interferon beta-1a, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, mitoxantrone, fingolimod, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, alemtuzumab, pegylated interferon beta-1a, daclizumab, laquinimod, azathioprine, immunoglobulins, cladribine, cyclophosphamide, diroximel fumarate, fludarabine, interferon beta 1-a and beta 1-b, leflunomide, methotrexate, minocycline, mycophenolate mofetil, ofatumumab, ozanimod, ponesimod, rituximab, siponimod and steroids for the treatment of people with RRMS. SEARCH METHODS CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and two trials registers were searched on 21 September 2021 together with reference checking, citation searching and contact with study authors to identify additional studies. A top-up search was conducted on 8 August 2022. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that studied one or more of the available immunomodulators and immunosuppressants as monotherapy in comparison to placebo or to another active agent, in adults with RRMS. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently selected studies and extracted data. We considered both direct and indirect evidence and performed data synthesis by pairwise and network meta-analysis. Certainty of the evidence was assessed by the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included 50 studies involving 36,541 participants (68.6% female and 31.4% male). Median treatment duration was 24 months, and 25 (50%) studies were placebo-controlled. Considering the risk of bias, the most frequent concern was related to the role of the sponsor in the authorship of the study report or in data management and analysis, for which we judged 68% of the studies were at high risk of other bias. The other frequent concerns were performance bias (34% judged as having high risk) and attrition bias (32% judged as having high risk). Placebo was used as the common comparator for network analysis. Relapses over 12 months: data were provided in 18 studies (9310 participants). Natalizumab results in a large reduction of people with relapses at 12 months (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.63; high-certainty evidence). Fingolimod (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.57; moderate-certainty evidence), daclizumab (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.73; moderate-certainty evidence), and immunoglobulins (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.79; moderate-certainty evidence) probably result in a large reduction of people with relapses at 12 months. Relapses over 24 months: data were reported in 28 studies (19,869 participants). Cladribine (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.64; high-certainty evidence), alemtuzumab (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.68; high-certainty evidence) and natalizumab (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.65; high-certainty evidence) result in a large decrease of people with relapses at 24 months. Fingolimod (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.60; moderate-certainty evidence), dimethyl fumarate (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.70; moderate-certainty evidence), and ponesimod (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.70; moderate-certainty evidence) probably result in a large decrease of people with relapses at 24 months. Glatiramer acetate (RR 0.84, 95%, CI 0.76 to 0.93; moderate-certainty evidence) and interferon beta-1a (Avonex, Rebif) (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.78 to 0.91; moderate-certainty evidence) probably moderately decrease people with relapses at 24 months. Relapses over 36 months findings were available from five studies (3087 participants). None of the treatments assessed showed moderate- or high-certainty evidence compared to placebo. Disability worsening over 24 months was assessed in 31 studies (24,303 participants). Natalizumab probably results in a large reduction of disability worsening (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.75; moderate-certainty evidence) at 24 months. Disability worsening over 36 months was assessed in three studies (2684 participants) but none of the studies used placebo as the comparator. Treatment discontinuation due to adverse events data were available from 43 studies (35,410 participants). Alemtuzumab probably results in a slight reduction of treatment discontinuation due to adverse events (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.79; moderate-certainty evidence). Daclizumab (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.40 to 4.63; moderate-certainty evidence), fingolimod (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.57; moderate-certainty evidence), teriflunomide (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.79; moderate-certainty evidence), interferon beta-1a (OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.99 to 2.20; moderate-certainty evidence), laquinimod (OR 1.49, 95 % CI 1.00 to 2.15; moderate-certainty evidence), natalizumab (OR 1.57, 95% CI 0.81 to 3.05), and glatiramer acetate (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.14; moderate-certainty evidence) probably result in a slight increase in the number of people who discontinue treatment due to adverse events. Serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported in 35 studies (33,998 participants). There was probably a trivial reduction in SAEs amongst people with RRMS treated with interferon beta-1b as compared to placebo (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.54; moderate-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We are highly confident that, compared to placebo, two-year treatment with natalizumab, cladribine, or alemtuzumab decreases relapses more than with other DMTs. We are moderately confident that a two-year treatment with natalizumab may slow disability progression. Compared to those on placebo, people with RRMS treated with most of the assessed DMTs showed a higher frequency of treatment discontinuation due to AEs: we are moderately confident that this could happen with fingolimod, teriflunomide, interferon beta-1a, laquinimod, natalizumab and daclizumab, while our certainty with other DMTs is lower. We are also moderately certain that treatment with alemtuzumab is associated with fewer discontinuations due to adverse events than placebo, and moderately certain that interferon beta-1b probably results in a slight reduction in people who experience serious adverse events, but our certainty with regard to other DMTs is lower. Insufficient evidence is available to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DMTs in a longer term than two years, and this is a relevant issue for a chronic condition like MS that develops over decades. More than half of the included studies were sponsored by pharmaceutical companies and this may have influenced their results. Further studies should focus on direct comparison between active agents, with follow-up of at least three years, and assess other patient-relevant outcomes, such as quality of life and cognitive status, with particular focus on the impact of sex/gender on treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marien Gonzalez-Lorenzo
- Laboratorio di Metodologia delle revisioni sistematiche e produzione di Linee Guida, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Ben Ridley
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Minozzi
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Del Giovane
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Cochrane Italy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University-Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Guy Peryer
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia (UEA), Norwich, UK
| | - Thomas Piggott
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matteo Foschi
- Department of Neuroscience, Multiple Sclerosis Center - Neurology Unit, S.Maria delle Croci Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Graziella Filippini
- Scientific Director's Office, Carlo Besta Foundation and Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Tramacere
- Department of Research and Clinical Development, Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Baldin
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Nonino
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Graf J, Ng HS, Zhu F, Zhao Y, Wijnands JMA, Evans C, Fisk JD, Marrie RA, Tremlett H. Disease-modifying drugs, multiple sclerosis and infection-related healthcare use in British Columbia, Canada: a population-based study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2024; 29:100667. [PMID: 38269206 PMCID: PMC10806332 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Background Much remains unknown surrounding the disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) used to treat multiple sclerosis and infection-related healthcare use in the 'real-world' setting. We examined if DMD exposure was associated with altered infection-related healthcare use. Methods We assessed if DMD (versus no) exposure was associated with altered infection-related hospitalizations, physician claims, and prescriptions filled in British Columbia, Canada (1996-2017). Healthcare use was assessed using negative binomial and proportional means regression models, reported as sex-/age-/comorbidity-/calendar year-/socioeconomic-adjusted rate and hazard ratios [aRR, aHR], with 95% confidence intervals [CIs]). Findings We identified 19,360 multiple sclerosis cases (13,940/19,360; 72.0% women; mean age at study start = 44.5 standard deviation, SD = 13.3; mean follow-up = 11.7 [SD = 7.3] years). Relative to unexposed periods, exposure to any DMD was associated with a lower infection-related rate of physician claims (aRR = 0.88; 95% CI:0.85-0.92) and hazard of hospitalization (aHR = 0.64; 95% CI:0.56-0.73), and a higher rate of infection-related prescriptions (aRR = 1.14; 95% CI:1.08-1.20). Exposure to any injectable or oral DMD was associated with a lower infection-related rate of physician claims (injectable aRR = 0.88; 95% CI:0.84-0.92, oral aRR = 0.83; 95% CI:0.77-0.90) and hazard of hospitalization (injectable aHR = 0.65; 95% CI:0.56-0.75, oral aHR = 0.54; 95% CI:0.38-0.77), whereas intravenous DMD exposure was not (aRR = 0.99; 95% CI:0.86-1.14, aHR = 0.73; 95% CI:0.49-1.09). Exposure to any injectable or intravenous DMD was associated with a higher rate of infection-related prescriptions (injectable aRR = 1.15; 95% CI:1.08-1.22, intravenous = 1.34; 95% CI:1.15-1.56), whereas oral DMDs were not (aRR = 0.98; 95% CI:0.91-1.05). Interpretation DMD exposure for the treatment of MS was associated with differences in infection-related healthcare use. While infection-related hospitalizations and physician visits were lower, prescription fills were higher. How these differences in infection-related healthcare use affect outcomes in persons with multiple sclerosis warrants consideration. Funding Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR); German Research Foundation (DFG).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Graf
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Huah Shin Ng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Feng Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yinshan Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - José MA. Wijnands
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Charity Evans
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - John D. Fisk
- Nova Scotia Health Authority and the Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, and Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ruth Ann Marrie
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Helen Tremlett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Inojosa H, Ziemssen T. [Current and innovative Approaches to Multiple Sclerosis Therapy]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 92:41-60. [PMID: 38272020 DOI: 10.1055/a-2167-1391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The landscape of immunotherapies in the management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is currently particularly dynamic. Over 21 immunotherapeutic options are approved by the European Meidcines Agency (EMA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and newer approaches are ongoing in clinical trials. With advancements in the understanding of MS pathophysiology and further development of diagnosis criteria, newer and more specific disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have emerged in recent years. The selection and timing of proper therapeutic approaches is increasingly complex. We provide an overview of the available immunotherapies for a personalized MS treatment and discuss practical insights into their application. The importance of early intervention, distinction between escalation and induction approaches, and consideration of high-efficacy treatments for specific patient groups are in discussed. We emphasize the significance of a patient-centered approach, taking into account various factors such as comorbidities, family planning, administration preferences and potential side effects in treatment decision-making.
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Kim KH, Kim SH, Park NY, Kim MJ, Hyun JW, Kim HJ. Latent tuberculosis infection in Korean patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 81:105145. [PMID: 38039942 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is defined as an immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection that does not manifest clinically as active tuberculosis (TB). Since some immunotherapies can alter cellular immunity, LTBI screening has been recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) before initiation of long-term immunotherapies. In this study, we investigated the frequency of LTBI in Korean pwMS and patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (pwNMOSD) and reported the long-term observation of untreated LTBI under various immunotherapies. METHODS We enrolled pwMS or pwNMOSD who visited the Neurology department of the National Cancer Center between 2017 and 2021. LTBI was determined based on positive results of interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) using QuantiFERON Gold Plus test and no evidence of active TB. Annual chest X-ray and careful monitoring for TB symptoms were performed until April 2023 or the time of follow-up loss. RESULTS Among 531 patients who underwent the IGRA test, 25 pwMS (10.5%) and 42 pwNMOSD (14.3%) were diagnosed with LTBI. Of the 67 patients with LTBI, 59 patients (24 pwMS and 35 pwNMOSD) declined to receive preventive anti-TB drugs. None of the 59 with untreated LTBI demonstrated TB reactivation during 74.8 person-years in pwMS and 166.1 person-years in pwNMOSD. In addition, eight patients who completed the treatment for LTBI experienced no TB reactivation for a median of 5.5 years. CONCLUSION The LTBI prevalence in Korean pw MS and pwNMOSD was 10.5% and 14.3%, respectively, which was much higher than that in pwMS from Western countries. Notably, none of the 59 patients with untreated LTBI showed TB reactivation over 240 person-years even under long-term immunotherapies, indicating the need for additional research to stratify the risk of LTBI-reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Hoon Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea
| | - Su-Hyun Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea
| | - Na Young Park
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea
| | - Min Jeong Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea
| | - Jae-Won Hyun
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, South Korea.
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Bellanca CM, Augello E, Mariottini A, Bonaventura G, La Cognata V, Di Benedetto G, Cantone AF, Attaguile G, Di Mauro R, Cantarella G, Massacesi L, Bernardini R. Disease Modifying Strategies in Multiple Sclerosis: New Rays of Hope to Combat Disability? Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1286-1326. [PMID: 38275058 PMCID: PMC11092922 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666240124114126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent chronic autoimmune inflammatory- demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). It usually begins in young adulthood, mainly between the second and fourth decades of life. Usually, the clinical course is characterized by the involvement of multiple CNS functional systems and by different, often overlapping phenotypes. In the last decades, remarkable results have been achieved in the treatment of MS, particularly in the relapsing- remitting (RRMS) form, thus improving the long-term outcome for many patients. As deeper knowledge of MS pathogenesis and respective molecular targets keeps growing, nowadays, several lines of disease-modifying treatments (DMT) are available, an impressive change compared to the relative poverty of options available in the past. Current MS management by DMTs is aimed at reducing relapse frequency, ameliorating symptoms, and preventing clinical disability and progression. Notwithstanding the relevant increase in pharmacological options for the management of RRMS, research is now increasingly pointing to identify new molecules with high efficacy, particularly in progressive forms. Hence, future efforts should be concentrated on achieving a more extensive, if not exhaustive, understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying this phase of the disease in order to characterize novel molecules for therapeutic intervention. The purpose of this review is to provide a compact overview of the numerous currently approved treatments and future innovative approaches, including neuroprotective treatments as anti-LINGO-1 monoclonal antibody and cell therapies, for effective and safe management of MS, potentially leading to a cure for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Maria Bellanca
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Egle Augello
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Alice Mariottini
- Department of Neurosciences Drugs and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriele Bonaventura
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Italian National Research Council, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina La Cognata
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Italian National Research Council, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Benedetto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Flavia Cantone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Attaguile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosaria Di Mauro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cantarella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Massacesi
- Department of Neurosciences Drugs and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Renato Bernardini
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Clinical Toxicology Unit, University Hospital, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Bisht P, Rathore C, Rathee A, Kabra A. Astrocyte Activation and Drug Target in Pathophysiology of Multiple Sclerosis. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2761:431-455. [PMID: 38427254 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3662-6_30] [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: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease, which is also referred to as an autoimmune disorder with chronic inflammatory demyelination affecting the core system that is the central nervous system (CNS). Demyelination is a pathological manifestation of MS. It is the destruction of myelin sheath, which is wrapped around the axons, and it results in the loss of synaptic connections and conduction along the axon is also compromised. Various attempts are made to understand MS and demyelination using various experimental models out of them. The most popular model is experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), in which autoimmunity against CNS components is induced in experimental animals by immunization with self-antigens derived from basic myelin protein. Astrocytes serve as a dual-edged sword both in demyelination and remyelination. Various drug targets have also been discussed that can be further explored for the treatment of MS. An extensive literature research was done from various online scholarly and research articles available on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier. Keywords used for these articles were astrocyte, demyelination, astrogliosis, and reactive astrocytes. This includes articles being the most relevant information to the area compiled to compose a current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Bisht
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Charul Rathore
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Ankit Rathee
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
| | - Atul Kabra
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Ajitgarh, Punjab, India
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Del Negro I, Pez S, Versace S, Marziali A, Gigli GL, Tereshko Y, Valente M. Impact of Disease-Modifying Therapies on Gut-Brain Axis in Multiple Sclerosis. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 60:6. [PMID: 38276041 PMCID: PMC10818907 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, autoimmune-mediated, demyelinating disease whose pathogenesis remains to be defined. In past years, in consideration of a constantly growing number of patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the impacts of different environmental factors in the pathogenesis of the disease have been largely studied. Alterations in gut microbiome composition and intestinal barrier permeability have been suggested to play an essential role in the regulation of autoimmunity. Thus, increased efforts are being conducted to demonstrate the complex interplay between gut homeostasis and disease pathogenesis. Numerous results confirm that disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) used for the treatment of MS, in addition to their immunomodulatory effect, could exert an impact on the intestinal microbiota, contributing to the modulation of the immune response itself. However, to date, the direct influence of these treatments on the microbiota is still unclear. This review intends to underline the impact of DMTs on the complex system of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in patients with multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Del Negro
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Sara Pez
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Salvatore Versace
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marziali
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Gigli
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Yan Tereshko
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Valente
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Udine University Hospital, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Newsome SD, Binns C, Kaunzner UW, Morgan S, Halper J. No Evidence of Disease Activity (NEDA) as a Clinical Assessment Tool for Multiple Sclerosis: Clinician and Patient Perspectives [Narrative Review]. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1909-1935. [PMID: 37819598 PMCID: PMC10630288 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00549-7] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of high-efficacy therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS), which target inflammation more effectively than traditional disease-modifying therapies, has led to a shift in MS management towards achieving the outcome assessment known as no evidence of disease activity (NEDA). The most common NEDA definition, termed NEDA-3, is a composite of three related measures of disease activity: no clinical relapses, no disability progression, and no radiological activity. NEDA has been frequently used as a composite endpoint in clinical trials, but there is growing interest in its use as an assessment tool to help patients and healthcare professionals navigate treatment decisions in the clinic. Raising awareness about NEDA may therefore help patients and clinicians make more informed decisions around MS management and improve overall MS care. This review aims to explore the potential utility of NEDA as a clinical decision-making tool and treatment target by summarizing the literature on its current use in the context of the expanding treatment landscape. We identify current challenges to the use of NEDA in clinical practice and detail the proposed amendments, such as the inclusion of alternative outcomes and biomarkers, to broaden the clinical information captured by NEDA. These themes are further illustrated with the real-life perspectives and experiences of our two patient authors with MS. This review is intended to be an educational resource to support discussions between clinicians and patients on this evolving approach to MS-specialized care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Newsome
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Pathology 627, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Cherie Binns
- Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 6520 N Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33309, USA
| | | | - Seth Morgan
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 1 M Street SE, Suite 510, Washington, DC, 20003, USA
| | - June Halper
- Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers, 3 University Plaza Drive Suite A, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
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Vakrakou AG, Brinia ME, Alexaki A, Koumasopoulos E, Stathopoulos P, Evangelopoulos ME, Stefanis L, Stadelmann-Nessler C, Kilidireas C. Multiple faces of multiple sclerosis in the era of highly efficient treatment modalities: Lymphopenia and switching treatment options challenges daily practice. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111192. [PMID: 37951198 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
The expanded treatment landscape in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) has resulted in highly effective treatment options and complexity in managing disease- or drug-related events during disease progression. Proper decision-making requires thorough knowledge of the immunobiology of MS itself and an understanding of the main principles behind the mechanisms that lead to secondary autoimmunity affecting organs other than the central nervous system as well as opportunistic infections. The immune system is highly adapted to both environmental and disease-modifying agents. Immune reconstitution following cell depletion or cell entrapment therapies eliminates pathogenic aspects of the disease but can also lead to distorted immune responses with harmful effects. Atypical relapses occur with second-line treatments or after their discontinuation and require appropriate clinical decisions. Lymphopenia is a result of the mechanism of action of many drugs used to treat MS. However, persistent lymphopenia and cell-specific lymphopenia could result in disease exacerbation, secondary autoimmunity, or the emergence of opportunistic infections. Clinicians treating patients with MS should be aware of the multiple faces of MS under novel, efficient treatment modalities and understand the intricate brain-immune cell interactions in the context of an altered immune system. MS relapses and disease progression still occur despite the current treatment modalities and are mediated either by failure to control effector mechanisms inherent to MS pathophysiology or by new drug-related mechanisms. The multiple faces of MS due to the highly adapted immune system of patients impose the need for appropriate switching therapies that safeguard disease remission and further clinical improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aigli G Vakrakou
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; Department of Neuropathology, University of Göttingen Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Maria-Evgenia Brinia
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Alexaki
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Koumasopoulos
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panos Stathopoulos
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Eleftheria Evangelopoulos
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Leonidas Stefanis
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Constantinos Kilidireas
- Demyelinating Diseases Unit, 1st Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Aiginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece; Department of Neurology, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
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Tramacere I, Virgili G, Perduca V, Lucenteforte E, Benedetti MD, Capobussi M, Castellini G, Frau S, Gonzalez-Lorenzo M, Featherstone R, Filippini G. Adverse effects of immunotherapies for multiple sclerosis: a network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 11:CD012186. [PMID: 38032059 PMCID: PMC10687854 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012186.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects mainly young adults (two to three times more frequently in women than in men) and causes significant disability after onset. Although it is accepted that immunotherapies for people with MS decrease disease activity, uncertainty regarding their relative safety remains. OBJECTIVES To compare adverse effects of immunotherapies for people with MS or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), and to rank these treatments according to their relative risks of adverse effects through network meta-analyses (NMAs). SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, two other databases and trials registers up to March 2022, together with reference checking and citation searching to identify additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included participants 18 years of age or older with a diagnosis of MS or CIS, according to any accepted diagnostic criteria, who were included in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined one or more of the agents used in MS or CIS, and compared them versus placebo or another active agent. We excluded RCTs in which a drug regimen was compared with a different regimen of the same drug without another active agent or placebo as a control arm. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methods for data extraction and pairwise meta-analyses. For NMAs, we used the netmeta suite of commands in R to fit random-effects NMAs assuming a common between-study variance. We used the CINeMA platform to GRADE the certainty of the body of evidence in NMAs. We considered a relative risk (RR) of 1.5 as a non-inferiority safety threshold compared to placebo. We assessed the certainty of evidence for primary outcomes within the NMA according to GRADE, as very low, low, moderate or high. MAIN RESULTS This NMA included 123 trials with 57,682 participants. Serious adverse events (SAEs) Reporting of SAEs was available from 84 studies including 5696 (11%) events in 51,833 (89.9%) participants out of 57,682 participants in all studies. Based on the absolute frequency of SAEs, our non-inferiority threshold (up to a 50% increased risk) meant that no more than 1 in 18 additional people would have a SAE compared to placebo. Low-certainty evidence suggested that three drugs may decrease SAEs compared to placebo (relative risk [RR], 95% confidence interval [CI]): interferon beta-1a (Avonex) (0.78, 0.66 to 0.94); dimethyl fumarate (0.79, 0.67 to 0.93), and glatiramer acetate (0.84, 0.72 to 0.98). Several drugs met our non-inferiority criterion versus placebo: moderate-certainty evidence for teriflunomide (1.08, 0.88 to 1.31); low-certainty evidence for ocrelizumab (0.85, 0.67 to 1.07), ozanimod (0.88, 0.59 to 1.33), interferon beta-1b (0.94, 0.78 to 1.12), interferon beta-1a (Rebif) (0.96, 0.80 to 1.15), natalizumab (0.97, 0.79 to 1.19), fingolimod (1.05, 0.92 to 1.20) and laquinimod (1.06, 0.83 to 1.34); very low-certainty evidence for daclizumab (0.83, 0.68 to 1.02). Non-inferiority with placebo was not met due to imprecision for the other drugs: low-certainty evidence for cladribine (1.10, 0.79 to 1.52), siponimod (1.20, 0.95 to 1.51), ofatumumab (1.26, 0.88 to 1.79) and rituximab (1.01, 0.67 to 1.52); very low-certainty evidence for immunoglobulins (1.05, 0.33 to 3.32), diroximel fumarate (1.05, 0.23 to 4.69), peg-interferon beta-1a (1.07, 0.66 to 1.74), alemtuzumab (1.16, 0.85 to 1.60), interferons (1.62, 0.21 to 12.72) and azathioprine (3.62, 0.76 to 17.19). Withdrawals due to adverse events Reporting of withdrawals due to AEs was available from 105 studies (85.4%) including 3537 (6.39%) events in 55,320 (95.9%) patients out of 57,682 patients in all studies. Based on the absolute frequency of withdrawals, our non-inferiority threshold (up to a 50% increased risk) meant that no more than 1 in 31 additional people would withdraw compared to placebo. No drug reduced withdrawals due to adverse events when compared with placebo. There was very low-certainty evidence (meaning that estimates are not reliable) that two drugs met our non-inferiority criterion versus placebo, assuming an upper 95% CI RR limit of 1.5: diroximel fumarate (0.38, 0.11 to 1.27) and alemtuzumab (0.63, 0.33 to 1.19). Non-inferiority with placebo was not met due to imprecision for the following drugs: low-certainty evidence for ofatumumab (1.50, 0.87 to 2.59); very low-certainty evidence for methotrexate (0.94, 0.02 to 46.70), corticosteroids (1.05, 0.16 to 7.14), ozanimod (1.06, 0.58 to 1.93), natalizumab (1.20, 0.77 to 1.85), ocrelizumab (1.32, 0.81 to 2.14), dimethyl fumarate (1.34, 0.96 to 1.86), siponimod (1.63, 0.96 to 2.79), rituximab (1.63, 0.53 to 5.00), cladribine (1.80, 0.89 to 3.62), mitoxantrone (2.11, 0.50 to 8.87), interferons (3.47, 0.95 to 12.72), and cyclophosphamide (3.86, 0.45 to 33.50). Eleven drugs may have increased withdrawals due to adverse events compared with placebo: low-certainty evidence for teriflunomide (1.37, 1.01 to 1.85), glatiramer acetate (1.76, 1.36 to 2.26), fingolimod (1.79, 1.40 to 2.28), interferon beta-1a (Rebif) (2.15, 1.58 to 2.93), daclizumab (2.19, 1.31 to 3.65) and interferon beta-1b (2.59, 1.87 to 3.77); very low-certainty evidence for laquinimod (1.42, 1.01 to 2.00), interferon beta-1a (Avonex) (1.54, 1.13 to 2.10), immunoglobulins (1.87, 1.01 to 3.45), peg-interferon beta-1a (3.46, 1.44 to 8.33) and azathioprine (6.95, 2.57 to 18.78); however, very low-certainty evidence is unreliable. Sensitivity analyses including only studies with low attrition bias, drug dose above the group median, or only patients with relapsing remitting MS or CIS, and subgroup analyses by prior disease-modifying treatments did not change these figures. Rankings No drug yielded consistent P scores in the upper quartile of the probability of being better than others for primary and secondary outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found mostly low and very low-certainty evidence that drugs used to treat MS may not increase SAEs, but may increase withdrawals compared with placebo. The results suggest that there is no important difference in the occurrence of SAEs between first- and second-line drugs and between oral, injectable, or infused drugs, compared with placebo. Our review, along with other work in the literature, confirms poor-quality reporting of adverse events from RCTs of interventions. At the least, future studies should follow the CONSORT recommendations about reporting harm-related issues. To address adverse effects, future systematic reviews should also include non-randomized studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tramacere
- Department of Research and Clinical Development, Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianni Virgili
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Ophthalmology, IRCCS - Fondazione Bietti, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Perduca
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, MAP5, F-75006 Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, Gustave Roussy, CESP, 94805, Villejuif, France
| | - Ersilia Lucenteforte
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science and Applications "G. Parenti", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Donata Benedetti
- UOC Neurologia B - Policlinico Borgo Roma, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Capobussi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Greta Castellini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marien Gonzalez-Lorenzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology, Laboratory of Clinical Research Methodology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Graziella Filippini
- Scientific Director's Office, Carlo Besta Foundation and Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
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Hartung HP, Cree BA, Barnett M, Meuth SG, Bar-Or A, Steinman L. Bioavailable central nervous system disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1290666. [PMID: 38162670 PMCID: PMC10755740 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1290666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Disease-modifying therapies for relapsing multiple sclerosis reduce relapse rates by suppressing peripheral immune cells but have limited efficacy in progressive forms of the disease where cells in the central nervous system play a critical role. To our knowledge, alemtuzumab, fumarates (dimethyl, diroximel, and monomethyl), glatiramer acetates, interferons, mitoxantrone, natalizumab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, and teriflunomide are either limited to the periphery or insufficiently studied to confirm direct central nervous system effects in participants with multiple sclerosis. In contrast, cladribine and sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators (fingolimod, ozanimod, ponesimod, and siponimod) are central nervous system-penetrant and could have beneficial direct central nervous system properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Bruce A.C. Cree
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Michael Barnett
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sven G. Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Amit Bar-Or
- Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lawrence Steinman
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Beckman Center for Molecular Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, United States
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Niazi SK. A Critical Analysis of the FDA's Omics-Driven Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers to Establish Biosimilarity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1556. [PMID: 38004421 PMCID: PMC10675618 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Demonstrating biosimilarity entails comprehensive analytical assessment, clinical pharmacology profiling, and efficacy testing in patients for at least one medical indication, as required by the U.S. Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act (BPCIA). The efficacy testing can be waived if the drug has known pharmacodynamic (PD) markers, leaving most therapeutic proteins out of this concession. To overcome this, the FDA suggests that biosimilar developers discover PD biomarkers using omics technologies such as proteomics, glycomics, transcriptomics, genomics, epigenomics, and metabolomics. This approach is redundant since the mode-action-action biomarkers of approved therapeutic proteins are already available, as compiled in this paper for the first time. Other potential biomarkers are receptor binding and pharmacokinetic profiling, which can be made more relevant to ensure biosimilarity without requiring biosimilar developers to conduct extensive research, for which they are rarely qualified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarfaraz K Niazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Kalkowski L, Walczak P, Mycko MP, Malysz-Cymborska I. Reconsidering the route of drug delivery in refractory multiple sclerosis: Toward a more effective drug accumulation in the central nervous system. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:2237-2259. [PMID: 37203228 DOI: 10.1002/med.21973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease with different disease phenotypes. The current FDA-approved disease-modifying therapeutics (DMTs) cannot cure the disease, but only alleviate the disease progression. While the majority of patients respond well to treatment, some of them are suffering from rapid progression. Current drug delivery strategies include the oral, intravenous, subdermal, and intramuscular routes, so these drugs are delivered systemically, which is appropriate when the therapeutic targets are peripheral. However, the potential benefits may be diminished when these targets sequester behind the barriers of the central nervous system. Moreover, systemic drug administration is plagued with adverse effects, sometimes severe. In this context, it is prudent to consider other drug delivery strategies improving their accumulation in the brain, thus providing better prospects for patients with rapidly progressing disease course. These targeted drug delivery strategies may also reduce the severity of systemic adverse effects. Here, we discuss the possibilities and indications for reconsideration of drug delivery routes (especially for those "non-responding" patients) and the search for alternative drug delivery strategies. More targeted drug delivery strategies sometimes require quite invasive procedures, but the potential therapeutic benefits and reduction of adverse effects could outweigh the risks. We characterized the major FDA-approved DMTs focusing on their therapeutic mechanism and the potential benefits of improving the accumulation of these drugs in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Kalkowski
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Piotr Walczak
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Marcin P Mycko
- Medical Division, Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Izabela Malysz-Cymborska
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
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Zeineddine M, Al-Hajje A, Salameh P, Helme A, Thor MG, Boumediene F, Yamout B. Barriers to accessing multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies in the Middle East and North Africa region: A regional survey-based study. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 79:104959. [PMID: 37651815 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) management varies markedly between different countries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region based on the availability and accessibility of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). OBJECTIVE To evaluate the accessibility to DMTs in each MENA country, identify barriers to treatment and make recommendations for improved access to DMTs across the region. METHODS This is a descriptive, survey-based study whereby we extracted data collected, between October 2019 and April 2020, for countries in the MENA region by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) through their Atlas of MS survey. RESULTS 16 out of 19 countries in the MENA region were included in this study. Sudan and Syria did not have any originator DMTs approved. Interferons were the most widely low-efficacy originator approved DMTs. Three countries did not have any high efficacy DMTs approved. Moreover, follow-on DMTs were approved in half (50%) of the countries. Cost of treatment was the most important barrier, reported in nearly half (47%) of the MENA countries. CONCLUSION Although most MENA countries have access to DMTs, more than half of countries report problems with treatment continuation, highlighting the need for a targeted regional strategy to address the variations in access to MS treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Zeineddine
- Inserm U1094, IRD U270, University Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT - Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Omega Health, Limoges, France; Neurology Institute, Harley Street Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Amal Al-Hajje
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology and Toxicology (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon; National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology and Toxicology (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon; School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon; Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus
| | - Anne Helme
- Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Farid Boumediene
- Inserm U1094, IRD U270, University Limoges, CHU Limoges, EpiMaCT - Epidemiology of Chronic Diseases in Tropical Zone, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Omega Health, Limoges, France
| | - Bassem Yamout
- Neurology Institute, Harley Street Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Alonso-Moreno M, Ladrón-Guevara M, Ciudad-Gutiérrez P. Systematic review of gender bias in clinical trials of monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Neurologia 2023; 38:695-706. [PMID: 37996214 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This article analyses the presence of gender bias in clinical trials of monoclonal antibodies used to treat multiple sclerosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS We performed a systematic review of controlled clinical trials of 4 monoclonal antibodies used to treat multiple sclerosis (natalizumab, rituximab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab). We searched the PubMed/MEDLINE database for articles published in English before March 2020. The study was conducted in accordance with the relevant international recommendations. RESULTS The search identified 89 articles, 55 of which met the inclusion criteria. Of all patients included in these trials, 64.6% were women. The lead authors of 10 of the studies were women. Fifteen of the 55 studies included a sex-based analysis of the primary endpoint. Only 8 articles discussed the results separately for men and for women. CONCLUSIONS The clinical trials of these 4 monoclonal antibodies present a significant gender bias. In most cases, the primary and secondary endpoints are not analyzed according to patient sex, despite the fact that international recommendations include this as a minimum requirement for ensuring scientific validity and obtaining appropriate results for extrapolation to the wider population.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alonso-Moreno
- Pharmacy Service, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Avenue Manuel Siurot, 41013 Seville, Spain.
| | - M Ladrón-Guevara
- Pharmacy Service, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Avenue Manuel Siurot, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - P Ciudad-Gutiérrez
- Pharmacy Service, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Avenue Manuel Siurot, 41013 Seville, Spain
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Dorsch EM, Röhling HM, Zocholl D, Hafermann L, Paul F, Schmitz-Hübsch T. Progression events defined by home-based assessment of motor function in multiple sclerosis: protocol of a prospective study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1258635. [PMID: 37881311 PMCID: PMC10597627 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1258635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study relates to emerging concepts of appropriate trial designs to evaluate effects of intervention on the accumulation of irreversible disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Major starting points of our study are the known limitations of current definitions of disability progression by rater-based clinical assessment and the high relevance of gait and balance dysfunctions in MS. The study aims to explore a novel definition of disease progression using repeated instrumental assessment of relevant motor functions performed by patients in their home setting. Methods The study is a prospective single-center observational cohort study with the primary outcome acquired by participants themselves, a home-based assessment of motor functions based on an RGB-Depth (RGB-D) camera, a camera that provides both depth (D) and color (RGB) data. Participants are instructed to perform and record a set of simple motor tasks twice a day over a one-week period every 6 months. Assessments are complemented by a set of questionnaires. Annual research grade assessments are acquired at dedicated study visits and include clinical ratings as well as structural imaging (MRI and optical coherence tomography). In addition, clinical data from routine visits is provided semiannually by treating neurologists. The observation period is 24 months for the primary endpoint with an additional clinical assessment at 27 month to confirm progression defined by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Secondary analyses aim to explore the time course of changes in motor parameters and performance of the novel definition against different alternative definitions of progression in MS. The study was registered at Deutsches Register für Klinische Studien (DRKS00027042). Discussion The study design presented here investigates disease progression defined by marker-less home-based assessment of motor functions against 3-month confirmed disease progression (3 m-CDP) defined by the EDSS. The technical approach was chosen due to previous experience in lab-based settings. The observation time per participant of 24, respectively, 27 months is commonly conceived as the lower limit needed to study disability progression. Defining a valid digital motor outcome for disease progression in MS may help to reduce observation times in clinical trials and add confidence to the detection of progression events in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Dorsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Marie Röhling
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Motognosis GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dario Zocholl
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lorena Hafermann
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tanja Schmitz-Hübsch
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation between the Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and the Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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van Nederpelt DR, Amiri H, Brouwer I, Noteboom S, Mokkink LB, Barkhof F, Vrenken H, Kuijer JPA. Reliability of brain atrophy measurements in multiple sclerosis using MRI: an assessment of six freely available software packages for cross-sectional analyses. Neuroradiology 2023; 65:1459-1472. [PMID: 37526657 PMCID: PMC10497452 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-023-03189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Volume measurement using MRI is important to assess brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, differences between scanners, acquisition protocols, and analysis software introduce unwanted variability of volumes. To quantify theses effects, we compared within-scanner repeatability and between-scanner reproducibility of three different MR scanners for six brain segmentation methods. METHODS Twenty-one people with MS underwent scanning and rescanning on three 3 T MR scanners (GE MR750, Philips Ingenuity, Toshiba Vantage Titan) to obtain 3D T1-weighted images. FreeSurfer, FSL, SAMSEG, FastSurfer, CAT-12, and SynthSeg were used to quantify brain, white matter and (deep) gray matter volumes both from lesion-filled and non-lesion-filled 3D T1-weighted images. We used intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) to quantify agreement; repeated-measures ANOVA to analyze systematic differences; and variance component analysis to quantify the standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change (SDC). RESULTS For all six software, both between-scanner agreement (ICCs ranging 0.4-1) and within-scanner agreement (ICC range: 0.6-1) were typically good, and good to excellent (ICC > 0.7) for large structures. No clear differences were found between filled and non-filled images. However, gray and white matter volumes did differ systematically between scanners for all software (p < 0.05). Variance component analysis yielded within-scanner SDC ranging from 1.02% (SAMSEG, whole-brain) to 14.55% (FreeSurfer, CSF); and between-scanner SDC ranging from 4.83% (SynthSeg, thalamus) to 29.25% (CAT12, thalamus). CONCLUSION Volume measurements of brain, GM and WM showed high repeatability, and high reproducibility despite substantial differences between scanners. Smallest detectable change was high, especially between different scanners, which hampers the clinical implementation of atrophy measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R van Nederpelt
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Houshang Amiri
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iman Brouwer
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Samantha Noteboom
- MS Center Amsterdam, Anatomy and Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidwine B Mokkink
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frederik Barkhof
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institutes of Neurology and Healthcare Engineering, UCL London, London, UK
| | - Hugo Vrenken
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P A Kuijer
- MS Center Amsterdam, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Giovannoni G, Hawkes CH, Lechner-Scott J, Levy M, Yeh EA. Is it ethical to use teriflunomide as an active comparator in phase 3 trials? Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 78:104911. [PMID: 37582327 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Ethical concerns have been raised about the practice of using teriflunomide, an oral licensed disease-modifying therapy, as an active comparator in phase 3 multiple sclerosis (MS) trials. The assumption is based on the perceived low efficacy of teriflunomide as judged by its effect on relapses and focal MRI activity. However, when you look beyond focal inflammation, teriflunomide has a robust impact on disability progression and a similar effect to the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies on slowing down the accelerated brain volume loss associated with MS. Teriflunomide is also more effective when used second or third line. The other classes of disease-modifying therapies have problems with their use as active comparators in clinical trials. Using a non-inferiority or equivalence trial design has its own unique set of regulatory and ethical challenges and is not necessarily a solution. There are also economic, altruistic and pragmatic reasons for continuing to use teriflunomide as an active comparator in MS clinical trials. An online survey indicates that the majority of the MS community feels it is still ethical to randomise subjects to teriflunomide and that procedures can be put in place to protect trial subjects randomised to teriflunomide. Therefore, we still have equipoise, and teriflunomide comparator trials are ethical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Giovannoni
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Christopher H Hawkes
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Michael Levy
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - E Ann Yeh
- Department of Paediatrics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Canada
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Edan G, Le Page E. Escalation Versus Induction/High-Efficacy Treatment Strategies for Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis: Which is Best for Patients? Drugs 2023; 83:1351-1363. [PMID: 37725259 PMCID: PMC10582148 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
After more than 2 decades of recommending an escalating strategy for the treatment of most patients with multiple sclerosis, there has recently been considerable interest in the use of high-efficacy therapies in the early stage of the disease. Early intervention with induction/high-efficacy disease-modifying therapy may have the best risk-benefit profile for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis who are young and have active disease, numerous focal T2 lesions on spinal and brain magnetic resonance imaging, and no irreversible disability. Although we have no curative treatment, at least seven classes of high-efficacy drugs are available, with two main strategies. The first strategy involves the use of high-efficacy drugs (e.g., natalizumab, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators, or anti-CD20 drugs) to achieve sustained immunosuppression. These can be used as a first-line therapy in many countries. The second strategy entails the use of one of the induction drugs (short-term use of mitoxantrone, alemtuzumab, cladribine, or autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant) that are mainly recommended as a second-line or third-line treatment in patients with very active or aggressive multiple sclerosis disease. Early sustained immunosuppression exposes patients to heightened risks of infection and cancer proportionate to cumulative exposure, and induction drugs expose patients to similar risks during the initial post-treatment period, although these risks decrease over time. Their initial potential safety risks should now be revisited, taking account of long-term data and some major changes in their regimens: natalizumab with the long-term monitoring of John Cunningham virus; use of monthly courses of mitoxantrone with maximum cumulative doses of 36-72 mg/m2, followed by a safer disease-modifying drug; cladribine with only 2-weekly treatment courses required in years 1 and 2 and no systematic treatment for the following 2 years; alemtuzumab, whose safety and clinical impacts have now been documented for more than 6 years after the last infusion; and autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplant, which dramatically reduces transplantation-related mortality with a new regimen and guidelines. Escalation and induction/high-efficacy treatments need rigorous magnetic resonance imaging monitoring. Monitoring over the first few years, using the MAGNIMS score or American Academy of Neurology guidelines, considerably improves prediction accuracy and facilitates the selection of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis requiring aggressive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Edan
- Empenn IRISA Research Group, INSERM Clinical Investigation Center, Pontchaillou University Hospital, Rennes, France.
| | - Emmanuelle Le Page
- Neurology Department, INSERM Clinical Investigation Center, Pontchaillou University Hospital, Rennes, France
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Panthagani J, O'Donovan C, Aiyegbusi OL, Liu X, Bayliss S, Calvert M, Pesudovs K, Denniston AK, Moore DJ, Braithwaite T. Evaluating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for future clinical trials in adult patients with optic neuritis. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:3097-3107. [PMID: 36932161 PMCID: PMC10022552 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02478-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To search for and critically appraise the psychometric quality of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) developed or validated in optic neuritis, in order to support high-quality research and care. METHODS We systematically searched MEDLINE(Ovid), Embase(Ovid), PsycINFO(Ovid) and CINAHLPlus(EBSCO), and additional grey literature to November 2021, to identify PROM development or validation studies applicable to optic neuritis associated with any systemic or neurologic disease in adults. We included instruments developed using classic test theory or Rasch analysis approaches. We used established quality criteria to assess content development, validity, reliability, and responsiveness, grading multiple domains from A (high quality) to C (low quality). RESULTS From 3142 screened abstracts we identified five PROM instruments potentially applicable to optic neuritis: three differing versions of the National Eye Institute (NEI)-Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ): the 51-item VFQ; the 25-item VFQ and a 10-item neuro-ophthalmology supplement; and the Impact of Visual Impairment Scale (IVIS), a constituent of the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Inventory (MSQLI) handbook, derived from the Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS). Psychometric appraisal revealed the NEI-VFQ-51 and 10-item neuro module had some relevant content development but weak psychometric development, and the FAMS had stronger psychometric development using Rasch Analysis, but was only somewhat relevant to optic neuritis. We identified no content or psychometric development for IVIS. CONCLUSION There is unmet need for a PROM with strong content and psychometric development applicable to optic neuritis for use in virtual care pathways and clinical trials to support drug marketing authorisation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles O'Donovan
- School of Immunology and Microbiology, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Olalekan Lee Aiyegbusi
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research (CPROR), Institute of Applied Health Research, Birmingham Health Partners for Regulatory Science and Innovation, NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West Midlands, and NIHR Birmingham-Oxford Blood and Transplant Research Unit (BTRU) in Precision Transplant and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Xiaoxuan Liu
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham, Health Data Research UK, London, UK
| | - Susan Bayliss
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Melanie Calvert
- Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research (CPROR), Institute of Applied Health Research, Birmingham Health Partners for Regulatory Science and Innovation, NIHR, Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Centre, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration West Midlands, and NIHR Birmingham-Oxford Blood and Transplant Research Unit (BTRU) in Precision Transplant and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | | | - Alastair K Denniston
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, and Centre for Patient Reported Outcomes Research (CPROR), Institute of Applied Health Research, Birmingham Health Partners for Regulatory Science and Innovation, NIHR Birmingham-Oxford Blood and Transplant Research Unit (BTRU) in Precision Transplant and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham, Health Data Research UK, London, UK
| | - David J Moore
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tasanee Braithwaite
- School of Immunology and Microbiology, King's College London, and The Medical Eye Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Clavelou P, Castelnovo G, Pourcher V, De Sèze J, Vermersch P, Ben-Amor AF, Savarin C, Defer G. Expert Narrative Review of the Safety of Cladribine Tablets for the Management of Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1457-1476. [PMID: 37382841 PMCID: PMC10444734 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00496-3] [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: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cladribine tablets (CladT) is a highly active oral disease-modifying therapy (DMT) for the management of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). CladT acts as an immune reconstitution therapy, in that two short courses of treatment 1 year apart have been shown to suppress disease activity for a prolonged period in most patients, without need for continued DMT. Each course of CladT induces a profound reduction in B lymphocytes that recovers over months, and serious lymphopenia (Grade 3-4) is uncommon. Smaller reductions in levels of T lymphocytes occur slightly later: on average, these remain within the normal range and repopulate progressively. A larger effect occurs on CD8 vs. CD4 cells. Reactivation of latent or opportunistic infections (e.g. varicella zoster, tuberculosis) is mostly associated with very low lymphocyte counts (< 200/mm3). Screening and managing pre-existing infections, vaccinating non-exposed patients and delaying the 2nd year of treatment with CladT to allow lymphocytes to recover to > 800/mm3 (if necessary) are important for avoiding infections and higher-grade lymphopenia. There was no demonstrable or apparent effect of CladT on the efficacy of vaccinations, including against Covid-19. Adverse events consistent with drug-induced liver injury (DILI) represent a rare but potentially serious complication of CladT therapy in spontaneous adverse event reporting; patients should be screened for liver dysfunction before starting treatment. Ongoing hepatic monitoring is not required, but CladT must be withdrawn if signs and symptoms of DILI develop. There was a numerical imbalance for malignancies when comparing cladribine to placebo in the clinical programme, particularly in short-term data, but recent evidence shows that the risk of malignancy with CladT is similar to the background rate in the general population and to that with other DMTs. Overall, CladT is well tolerated with a favorable safety profile appropriate for the management of RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Clavelou
- Department of Neurology, Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital, 58 Rue Montalembert, 63003, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex 1, France.
| | - Giovanni Castelnovo
- Department of Neurology, Nîmes University Hospital, Hopital Caremeau, Nîmes, France
| | - Valérie Pourcher
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, APHP, Sorbonne Université, INSERM 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jerome De Sèze
- Department of Neurology, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Univ. Lille, Inserm U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, Lille, France
| | - Ali-Frederic Ben-Amor
- Global Medical Affairs Neurology and Immunology, Ares Trading SA (An affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Carine Savarin
- Neurology Department, Medical Affairs (An affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Merck Santé, Lyon, France
| | - Gilles Defer
- Department of Neurology, Caen University Hospital, Caen, France
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Sandgren S, Novakova L, Nordin A, Axelsson M, Malmeström C, Zetterberg H, Lycke J. A five-year observational prospective mono-center study of the efficacy of alemtuzumab in a real-world cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1265354. [PMID: 37808497 PMCID: PMC10551138 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1265354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alemtuzumab (ALZ) is a pulsed immune reconstitution therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective To assess basic characteristics, therapeutic effects, and prognostic biomarkers on clinical and imaging parameters of disease activity for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients selected for ALZ, in a real-world long-term setting. Methods Fifty-one RRMS patients [female = 31; mean age 36 (standard deviation 7.1) years; median expanded disability status scale (EDSS) 2 (interquartile range (IQR) 1.5)] initiating ALZ treatment, were consecutively included. Patients were assessed at baseline and thereafter annually for 5 years with clinical measures, symbol digit modality test (SDMT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Concentrations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), reflecting astrogliosis, and neurofilament light (NfL), reflecting axonal damage, were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples collected at baseline and after 2 years in CSF, and annually in serum. Control subjects were symptomatic controls (SCs, n = 27), who were examined at baseline and after 5 years without evidence of neurological disease. Results While the mean annualized relapse rate was significantly reduced from baseline at each year of follow-up, disability was essentially maintained at a median EDSS of 1.5 and IQR between 1.13 and 2.25. New MRI activity was recorded in 26 patients (53%) over 5 years. The proportion of patients who achieved no evidence of disease activity (NEDA-3), 6-months confirmed disability worsening (CDW), and 6-months confirmed disability improvement (CDI) at 5 years were 33, 31, and 31%, respectively. The SDMT score was reduced for patients (p < 0.001), but unchanged for SCs. ALZ treatment did not change GFAP levels, whereas there was a significant decrease for RRMS patients in median CSF and serum NfL levels at follow-up [CSF month 24: 456 pg./mL (IQR 285.4) (p = 0.05); serum month 24: 6.7 pg/mL (IQR 4.7) (p < 0.01); serum month 60: 7.2 pg/mL (IQR 4.7) (p < 0.01)], compared to baseline [CSF: 1014 pg/mL (IQR 2832.5); serum 8.6 pg/mL (IQR 17.4)]. Conclusion In this real-world mono-center population, we observed a progression-free survival of 69%, cumulative NEDA-3 of 33%, and reduced NfL levels, over a five-year follow-up. This confirms ALZ as an effective pulsed immune reconstitution therapy that significantly reduces neuro axonal loss, and therefore has the potential to reduce long-term neurological disability. ALZ did not appear to affect astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Sandgren
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lenka Novakova
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Nordin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Markus Axelsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Clas Malmeström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Laboratory for Clinical Immunology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London (UCL) Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jan Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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