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Alshehri RS, Abuzinadah AR, Alrawaili MS, Alotaibi MK, Alsufyani HA, Alshanketi RM, AlShareef AA. A Review of Biomarkers of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Pathophysiologic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:10900. [PMID: 39456682 PMCID: PMC11507293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms252010900] [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: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 10/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. The heterogeneous nature of ALS at the clinical, genetic, and pathological levels makes it challenging to develop diagnostic and prognostic tools that fit all disease phenotypes. Limitations associated with the functional scales and the qualitative nature of mainstay electrophysiological testing prompt the investigation of more objective quantitative assessment. Biofluid biomarkers have the potential to fill that gap by providing evidence of a disease process potentially early in the disease, its progression, and its response to therapy. In contrast to other neurodegenerative diseases, no biomarker has yet been validated in clinical use for ALS. Several fluid biomarkers have been investigated in clinical studies in ALS. Biofluid biomarkers reflect the different pathophysiological processes, from protein aggregation to muscle denervation. This review takes a pathophysiologic approach to summarizing the findings of clinical studies utilizing quantitative biofluid biomarkers in ALS, discusses the utility and shortcomings of each biomarker, and highlights the superiority of neurofilaments as biomarkers of neurodegeneration over other candidate biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawiah S. Alshehri
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.A.); (H.A.A.)
| | - Ahmad R. Abuzinadah
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia; (M.S.A.); (A.A.A.)
- Neuromuscular Medicine Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moafaq S. Alrawaili
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia; (M.S.A.); (A.A.A.)
- Neuromuscular Medicine Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muteb K. Alotaibi
- Neurology Department, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh 12233, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hadeel A. Alsufyani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia; (R.S.A.); (H.A.A.)
| | - Rajaa M. Alshanketi
- Internal Medicine Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Aysha A. AlShareef
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia; (M.S.A.); (A.A.A.)
- Neuromuscular Medicine Unit, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
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Riva N, Domi T, Pozzi L, Lunetta C, Schito P, Spinelli EG, Cabras S, Matteoni E, Consonni M, Bella ED, Agosta F, Filippi M, Calvo A, Quattrini A. Update on recent advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2024; 271:4693-4723. [PMID: 38802624 PMCID: PMC11233360 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12435-9] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
In the last few years, our understanding of disease molecular mechanisms underpinning ALS has advanced greatly, allowing the first steps in translating into clinical practice novel research findings, including gene therapy approaches. Similarly, the recent advent of assistive technologies has greatly improved the possibility of a more personalized approach to supportive and symptomatic care, in the context of an increasingly complex multidisciplinary line of actions, which remains the cornerstone of ALS management. Against this rapidly growing background, here we provide an comprehensive update on the most recent studies that have contributed towards our understanding of ALS pathogenesis, the latest results from clinical trials as well as the future directions for improving the clinical management of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilo Riva
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Teuta Domi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Pozzi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Christian Lunetta
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Neurorehabilitation Unit of Milan Institute, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Paride Schito
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Gioele Spinelli
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Cabras
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Matteoni
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Monica Consonni
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Agosta
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute Huniversity, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute Huniversity, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Calvo
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Kutlubaev MA. [Promising approaches to the pathogenetic therapy of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2024; 124:13-21. [PMID: 38676672 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202412404113] [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: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a severe incurable disease of the nervous system. Currently only methods of palliative care for the patients with this disease are available. Few medications for the pathogenetic therapy are registered in some countries, i.e. riluzole, edaravon, sodium phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol as well as tofersen (conditionally). Their efficacy is relatively low. The main directions in the development of pathogenetic therapy of ALS include gene therapy, use of stem cells, immunomodulators, agents affecting gut microbiota. A search is also underway for low-molecular compounds with neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. Perspective direction is prevention of ALS. This will be possible when biomarkers for identification of patients in pre-manifest/prodromal stage are detected.
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Claassen WJ, Baelde RJ, Galli RA, de Winter JM, Ottenheijm CAC. Small molecule drugs to improve sarcomere function in those with acquired and inherited myopathies. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C60-C68. [PMID: 37212548 PMCID: PMC10281779 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00047.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Muscle weakness is a hallmark of inherited or acquired myopathies. It is a major cause of functional impairment and can advance to life-threatening respiratory insufficiency. During the past decade, several small-molecule drugs that improve the contractility of skeletal muscle fibers have been developed. In this review, we provide an overview of the available literature and the mechanisms of action of small-molecule drugs that modulate the contractility of sarcomeres, the smallest contractile units in striated muscle, by acting on myosin and troponin. We also discuss their use in the treatment of skeletal myopathies. The first of three classes of drugs discussed here increase contractility by decreasing the dissociation rate of calcium from troponin and thereby sensitizing the muscle to calcium. The second two classes of drugs directly act on myosin and stimulate or inhibit the kinetics of myosin-actin interactions, which may be useful in patients with muscle weakness or stiffness.NEW & NOTEWORTHY During the past decade, several small molecule drugs that improve the contractility of skeletal muscle fibers have been developed. In this review, we provide an overview of the available literature and the mechanisms of action of small molecule drugs that modulate the contractility of sarcomeres, the smallest contractile units in striated muscle, by acting on myosin and troponin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wout J Claassen
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Physiology, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rianne J Baelde
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Physiology, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ricardo A Galli
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Physiology, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Josine M de Winter
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Physiology, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Coen A C Ottenheijm
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Physiology, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Ketabforoush AHME, Chegini R, Barati S, Tahmasebi F, Moghisseh B, Joghataei MT, Faghihi F, Azedi F. Masitinib: The promising actor in the next season of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis treatment series. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114378. [PMID: 36774721 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with high mortality and morbidity rate affecting both upper and lower motor neurons (MN). Muscle force reduction, behavioral change, pseudobulbar affect, and cognitive impairments are the most common clinical manifestations of ALS. The main physiopathology of ALS is still unclear, though several studies have identified that oxidative stress, proteinopathies, glutamate-related excitotoxicity, microglial activation, and neuroinflammation may be involved in the pathogenesis of ALS. From 1995 until October 2022, only Riluzole, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (DH) with Quinidine sulfate (Q), Edaravone, and Sodium phenylbutyrate with Taurursodiol (PB/TUDCO) have achieved FDA approval for ALS treatment. Despite the use of these four approved agents, the survival rate and quality of life of ALS patients are still low. Thus, finding novel treatments for ALS patients is an urgent requirement. Masitinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, emphasizes the neuro-inflammatory activity of ALS by targeting macrophages, mast cells, and microglia cells. Masitinib downregulates the proinflammatory cytokines, indirectly reduces inflammation, and induces neuroprotection. Also, it was effective in phase 2/3 and 3 clinical trials (CTs) by increasing overall survival and delaying motor, bulbar, and respiratory function deterioration. This review describes the pathophysiology of ALS, focusing on Masitinib's mechanism of action and explaining why Masitinib could be a promising actor in the treatment of ALS patients. In addition, Masitinib CTs and other competitor drugs in phase 3 CTs have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rojin Chegini
- Metabolic Liver Disease Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shirin Barati
- Department of Anatomy, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tahmasebi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bardia Moghisseh
- Student Research Committee, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghi Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Faghihi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fereshteh Azedi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Suzuki N, Nishiyama A, Warita H, Aoki M. Genetics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: seeking therapeutic targets in the era of gene therapy. J Hum Genet 2023; 68:131-152. [PMID: 35691950 PMCID: PMC9968660 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-022-01055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an intractable disease that causes respiratory failure leading to mortality. The main locus of ALS is motor neurons. The success of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a motor neuron disease, has triggered a paradigm shift in developing ALS therapies. The causative genes of ALS and disease-modifying genes, including those of sporadic ALS, have been identified one after another. Thus, the freedom of target choice for gene therapy has expanded by ASO strategy, leading to new avenues for therapeutic development. Tofersen for superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) was a pioneer in developing ASO for ALS. Improving protocols and devising early interventions for the disease are vital. In this review, we updated the knowledge of causative genes in ALS. We summarized the genetic mutations identified in familial ALS and their clinical features, focusing on SOD1, fused in sarcoma (FUS), and transacting response DNA-binding protein. The frequency of the C9ORF72 mutation is low in Japan, unlike in Europe and the United States, while SOD1 and FUS are more common, indicating that the target mutations for gene therapy vary by ethnicity. A genome-wide association study has revealed disease-modifying genes, which could be the novel target of gene therapy. The current status and prospects of gene therapy development were discussed, including ethical issues. Furthermore, we discussed the potential of axonal pathology as new therapeutic targets of ALS from the perspective of early intervention, including intra-axonal transcription factors, neuromuscular junction disconnection, dysregulated local translation, abnormal protein degradation, mitochondrial pathology, impaired axonal transport, aberrant cytoskeleton, and axon branching. We simultaneously discuss important pathological states of cell bodies: persistent stress granules, disrupted nucleocytoplasmic transport, and cryptic splicing. The development of gene therapy based on the elucidation of disease-modifying genes and early intervention in molecular pathology is expected to become an important therapeutic strategy in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Nishiyama
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Warita
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
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Lu G, Wen Q, Cui B, Li Q, Zhang F. Washed microbiota transplantation stopped the deterioration of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: The first case report and narrative review. J Biomed Res 2023; 37:69-76. [PMID: 35821195 PMCID: PMC9898040 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.36.20220088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is known as a progressive paralysis disorder characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, and has an average survival time of three to five years. Growing evidence has suggested a bidirectional link between gut microbiota and neurodegeneration. Here we aimed to report one female case with ALS, who benefited from washed microbiota transplantation (WMT), an improved fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), through a transendoscopic enteral tube during a 12-month follow-up. Notedly, the accidental scalp trauma the patient suffered later was treated with prescribed antibiotics that caused ALS deterioration. The subsequent rescue WMTs successfully stopped the progression of the disease with a quick improvement. The plateaus and reversals occurred during the whole course of WMT. The stool and blood samples from the first WMT to the last were collected for dynamic microbial and metabolomic analysis. We observed the microbial and metabolomic changing trend consistent with the disease status. This case report for the first time shows the direct clinical evidence on using WMT for treating ALS, indicating that WMT may be the novel treatment strategy for controlling this so-called incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaochen Lu
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Key Lab of Holistic Integrative Enterology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China
| | - Quan Wen
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Key Lab of Holistic Integrative Enterology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China
| | - Bota Cui
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Key Lab of Holistic Integrative Enterology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Key Lab of Holistic Integrative Enterology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China
| | - Faming Zhang
- Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Key Lab of Holistic Integrative Enterology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China,Department of Microbiotherapy, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China,National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xi'an, Shanxi 710032, China,Faming Zhang, Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 121 Jiang Jia Yuan, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210011, China. Tel: +86-25-56662093, E-mail:
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Shefner JM, Bedlack R, Andrews JA, Berry JD, Bowser R, Brown R, Glass JD, Maragakis NJ, Miller TM, Rothstein JD, Cudkowicz ME. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Clinical Trials and Interpretation of Functional End Points and Fluid Biomarkers: A Review. JAMA Neurol 2022; 79:1312-1318. [PMID: 36251310 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.3282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Importance Clinical trial activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is dramatically increasing; as a result, trial modifications have been introduced to improve efficiency, outcome measures have been reassessed, and considerable discussion about the level of data necessary to advance a drug to approval has occurred. This review discusses what recent pivotal studies can teach the community about these topics. Observations By restricting inclusion and exclusion criteria, recent trials have enrolled populations distinct from previous studies. This has led to efficacy signals being observed in studies that are smaller and shorter than was thought feasible previously. However, such trials raise questions about generalizability of results. Small trials with equivocal clinical results also raise questions about the data necessary to lead to regulatory approval. The ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised remains the most commonly used primary outcome measure; this review discusses innovations in its use. Blood neurofilament levels can predict prognosis in ALS and may be a sensitive indicator of biologic effect; current knowledge does not yet support its use as a primary outcome. Conclusions and Relevance It is now possible to use specific inclusion criteria to recruit a homogeneous patient population progressing at a specific rate; this will likely impact trials in the future. Generalizability of results on limited populations remains a concern. Although clinical outcomes remain the most appropriate primary outcome measures, fluid markers reflecting biologically important processes will assume more importance as more is learned about the association between such markers and clinical end points. The benefit of use of analytic strategies, such as responder analyses, is still uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jinsy A Andrews
- The Neurological Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - James D Berry
- Healey & AMG Center ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
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Tarantino N, Canfora I, Camerino GM, Pierno S. Therapeutic Targets in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Focus on Ion Channels and Skeletal Muscle. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030415. [PMID: 35159225 PMCID: PMC8834084 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease caused by progressive loss of motor neurons, which severely compromises skeletal muscle function. Evidence shows that muscle may act as a molecular powerhouse, whose final signals generate in patients a progressive loss of voluntary muscle function and weakness leading to paralysis. This pathology is the result of a complex cascade of events that involves a crosstalk among motor neurons, glia, and muscles, and evolves through the action of converging toxic mechanisms. In fact, mitochondrial dysfunction, which leads to oxidative stress, is one of the mechanisms causing cell death. It is a common denominator for the two existing forms of the disease: sporadic and familial. Other factors include excitotoxicity, inflammation, and protein aggregation. Currently, there are limited cures. The only approved drug for therapy is riluzole, that modestly prolongs survival, with edaravone now waiting for new clinical trial aimed to clarify its efficacy. Thus, there is a need of effective treatments to reverse the damage in this devastating pathology. Many drugs have been already tested in clinical trials and are currently under investigation. This review summarizes the already tested drugs aimed at restoring muscle-nerve cross-talk and on new treatment options targeting this tissue.
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Petri S. Major research advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 2021. Lancet Neurol 2021; 21:14-15. [PMID: 34942124 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00420-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany.
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Wood H. Levosimendan fails to improve respiratory function in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:660. [PMID: 34594004 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-021-00569-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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