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Beaudin M, Dupre N, Manto M. The importance of synthetic pharmacotherapy for recessive cerebellar ataxias. Expert Rev Neurother 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38980086 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2376840] [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: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The last decade has witnessed major breakthroughs in identifying novel genetic causes of hereditary ataxias, deepening our understanding of disease mechanisms, and developing therapies for these debilitating disorders. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the currently approved and most promising candidate pharmacotherapies in relation to the known disease mechanisms of the most prevalent autosomal recessive ataxias. Omaveloxolone is an Nrf2 activator that increases antioxidant defense and was recently approved for treatment of Friedreich ataxia. Its therapeutic effect is modest, and further research is needed to find synergistic treatments that would halt or reverse disease progression. Promising approaches include upregulation of frataxin expression by epigenetic mechanisms, direct protein replacement, and gene replacement therapy. For ataxia-telangiectasia, promising approaches include splice-switching antisense oligonucleotides and small molecules targeting oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial function. Rare recessive ataxias for which disease-modifying therapies exist are also reviewed, emphasizing recently approved therapies. Evidence supporting the use of riluzole and acetyl-leucine in recessive ataxias is discussed. EXPERT OPINION Advances in genetic therapies for other neurogenetic conditions have paved the way to implement feasible approaches with potential dramatic benefits. Particularly, as we develop effective treatments for these conditions, we may need to combine therapies, consider newborn testing for pre-symptomatic treatment, and optimize non-pharmacological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Beaudin
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Dupre
- Neuroscience axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Mario Manto
- Service des Neurosciences, Université de Mons, Mons, Belgique
- Unité des Ataxies Cérébelleuses, Service de Neurologie, CHU-Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgique
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Gopalappa R, Lee M, Kim G, Jung ES, Lee H, Hwang HY, Lee JG, Kim SJ, Yoo HJ, Sung YH, Kim D, Baek IJ, Kim HH. In vivo adenine base editing rescues adrenoleukodystrophy in a humanized mouse model. Mol Ther 2024; 32:2190-2206. [PMID: 38796705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.05.027] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), an inherited neurometabolic disorder caused by mutations in ABCD1, which encodes the peroxisomal ABC transporter, mainly affects the brain, spinal cord, adrenal glands, and testes. In ALD patients, very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) fail to enter the peroxisome and undergo subsequent β-oxidation, resulting in their accumulation in the body. It has not been tested whether in vivo base editing or prime editing can be harnessed to ameliorate ALD. We developed a humanized mouse model of ALD by inserting a human cDNA containing the pathogenic variant into the mouse Abcd1 locus. The humanized ALD model showed increased levels of VLCFAs. To correct the mutation, we tested both base editing and prime editing and found that base editing using ABE8e(V106W) could correct the mutation in patient-derived fibroblasts at an efficiency of 7.4%. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated systemic delivery of NG-ABE8e(V106W) enabled robust correction of the pathogenic variant in the mouse brain (correction efficiency: ∼5.5%), spinal cord (∼5.1%), and adrenal gland (∼2%), leading to a significant reduction in the plasma levels of C26:0/C22:0. This established humanized mouse model and the successful correction of the pathogenic variant using a base editor serve as a significant step toward treating human ALD disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramu Gopalappa
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - MinYoung Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Globinna Kim
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, ASAN Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Eul Sik Jung
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; JES Clinic, Incheon 21550, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanahrae Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Yeon Hwang
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Geol Lee
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jung Kim
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Yoo
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hoon Sung
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, ASAN Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Daesik Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Jeoung Baek
- ConveRgence mEDIcine research cenTer (CREDIT), ASAN Institute for Life Sciences, ASAN Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea; Department of Cell and Genetic Engineering, ASAN Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyongbum Henry Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering, Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Woo Choo Lee Institute for Precision Drug Development, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
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Liu J, Wang X, Huang D, Qi Y, Xu L, Shao Y. A novel ABCD1 gene mutation causes adrenomyeloneuropathy presenting with spastic paraplegia: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37874. [PMID: 38640304 PMCID: PMC11029984 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037874] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is caused by mutations in the ABCD1 gene leading to very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) accumulation. The disease demonstrates a spectrum of phenotypes including adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN). We aimed to identify the genetic basis of disease in a patient presenting with AMN features in order to confirm the diagnosis, expand genetic knowledge of ABCD1 mutations, and elucidate potential genotype-phenotype associations to inform management. PATIENT CONCERNS A 29-year-old male presented with a 4-year history of progressive spastic paraplegia, weakness of lower limbs, fecal incontinence, sexual dysfunction, hyperreflexia, and positive Babinski and Chaddock signs. DIAGNOSES Neuroimaging revealed brain white matter changes and spinal cord thinning. Significantly elevated levels of hexacosanoic acid (C26:0) and tetracosanoic acid (C24:0) suggested very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) metabolism disruption. Genetic testing identified a novel hemizygous ABCD1 mutation c.249dupC (p.F83fs). These findings confirmed a diagnosis of X-linked ALD with an AMN phenotype. INTERVENTIONS The patient received dietary counseling to limit VLCFA intake. Monitoring for adrenal insufficiency and consideration of Lorenzo's oil were advised. Genetic counseling and testing were offered to at-risk relatives. OUTCOMES At present, the patient continues to experience progressive paraplegia. Adrenal function remains normal thus far without steroid replacement. Family members have undergone predictive testing. LESSONS This case expands the known mutation spectrum of ABCD1-linked X-ALD, providing insight into potential genotype-phenotype correlations. A thoughtful diagnostic approach integrating clinical, biochemical and genetic data facilitated diagnosis. Findings enabled genetic counseling for at-risk relatives regarding this X-linked disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxin Liu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Di Huang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuna Qi
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yankun Shao
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Siwek T, Zwiernik B, Jezierska-Woźniak K, Jezierska K, Mycko MP, Selmaj KW. Intrathecal administration of mesenchymal stem cells in patients with adrenomyeloneuropathy. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1345503. [PMID: 38370525 PMCID: PMC10869536 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1345503] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives X-linked adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder associated with mutations in the ABCD1 gene and the accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids (VLFCAs) in plasma and tissues. Currently, there is no effective treatment for AMN. We have aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation in patients with AMN. Methods This is a small cohort open-label study with patients with AMN diagnosed and treated at the University Hospital in Olsztyn, Poland. All patients met clinical, biochemical, MRI, and neuropsychological criteria for AMN. MSCs derived from Wharton jelly, 20 × 106 cells, were administered intrathecally three times every 2 months, and patients were followed up for an additional 3 months. The primary outcome measures included a blinded assessment of lower limb muscle strength with the Medical Research Council Manual Muscle Testing scale at baseline and on every month visits until the end of the study. Additional outcomes included measurements of the timed 25-feet walk (T25FW) and VLFCA serum ratio. Results Three male patients with AMN with an age range of 26-37 years participated in this study. All patients experienced increased muscle strength in the lower limbs at the end of the study versus baseline. The power grade increased by 25-43% at the baseline. In addition, all patients showed an improvement trend in walking speed measured with the T25FW test. Treatment with MSCs in patients with AMN appeared to be safe and well tolerated. Discussion The results of this study demonstrated that intrathecal administration of WJ-MSC improves motor symptoms in patients with AMN. The current findings lend support to the safety and feasibility of MSC therapy as a potentially viable treatment option for patients with AMN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Siwek
- Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
- University Hospital, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Beata Zwiernik
- Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
- University Hospital, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Jezierska-Woźniak
- Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamila Jezierska
- University Hospital, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin P. Mycko
- Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
- University Hospital, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Krzysztof W. Selmaj
- Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
- Center of Neurology, Lodz, Poland
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Stavros K. Genetic Myelopathies. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2024; 30:119-132. [PMID: 38330475 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article provides an overview of genetic myelopathies, a diverse group of inherited, degenerative conditions that may be broadly categorized as motor neuron disorders, disorders of spinocerebellar degeneration, leukodystrophies, and hereditary spastic paraplegia. Clinical examples from each category are provided to illustrate the spectrum of genetic myelopathies and their distinguishing features that aid in differentiating genetic myelopathies from potentially treatable acquired causes of myelopathy. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Advances in genetic testing have vastly enhanced current knowledge of genetic myelopathies and the ability to diagnose and provide appropriate counseling to patients and their families. However, potential health care disparities in access to genetic testing is a topic that must be further explored. Although treatment for most of these conditions is typically supportive, there have been recent therapeutic breakthroughs in treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Friedreich ataxia. ESSENTIAL POINTS Genetic myelopathies may present with chronic and progressive symptoms, a family history of similar symptoms, and involvement of other structures outside of the spinal cord. Imaging often shows spinal cord atrophy, but cord signal change is rare. Exclusion of reversible causes of myelopathy is a key step in the diagnosis. There are many different causes of genetic myelopathies, and in some cases, symptoms may overlap, which underscores the utility of genetic testing in confirming the precise underlying neurologic condition.
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Dratch L, Azage M, Baldwin A, Johnson K, Paul RA, Bardakjian TM, Michon SC, Amado DA, Baer M, Deik AF, Elman LB, Gonzalez-Alegre P, Guo MH, Hamedani AG, Irwin DJ, Lasker A, Orthmann-Murphy J, Quinn C, Tropea TF, Scherer SS, Ellis CA. Genetic testing in adults with neurologic disorders: indications, approach, and clinical impacts. J Neurol 2024; 271:733-747. [PMID: 37891417 PMCID: PMC11095966 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12058-6] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The role of genetic testing in neurologic clinical practice has increased dramatically in recent years, driven by research on genetic causes of neurologic disease and increased availability of genetic sequencing technology. Genetic testing is now indicated for adults with a wide range of common neurologic conditions. The potential clinical impacts of a genetic diagnosis are also rapidly expanding, with a growing list of gene-specific treatments and clinical trials, in addition to important implications for prognosis, surveillance, family planning, and diagnostic closure. The goals of this review are to provide practical guidance for clinicians about the role of genetics in their practice and to provide the neuroscience research community with a broad survey of current progress in this field. We aim to answer three questions for the neurologist in practice: Which of my patients need genetic testing? What testing should I order? And how will genetic testing help my patient? We focus on common neurologic disorders and presentations to the neurology clinic. For each condition, we review the most current guidelines and evidence regarding indications for genetic testing, expected diagnostic yield, and recommended testing approach. We also focus on clinical impacts of genetic diagnoses, highlighting a number of gene-specific therapies recently approved for clinical use, and a rapidly expanding landscape of gene-specific clinical trials, many using novel nucleotide-based therapeutic modalities like antisense oligonucleotides and gene transfer. We anticipate that more widespread use of genetic testing will help advance therapeutic development and improve the care, and outcomes, of patients with neurologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laynie Dratch
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Meron Azage
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Aaron Baldwin
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Kelsey Johnson
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Rachel A Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tanya M Bardakjian
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Sarepta Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Sara-Claude Michon
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Defne A Amado
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Michael Baer
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Andres F Deik
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lauren B Elman
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Pedro Gonzalez-Alegre
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Spark Therapeutics Inc, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Michael H Guo
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ali G Hamedani
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David J Irwin
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Aaron Lasker
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jennifer Orthmann-Murphy
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Colin Quinn
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Thomas F Tropea
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Steven S Scherer
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Colin A Ellis
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce St, 3 West Gates Building, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Musokhranova U, Grau C, Vergara C, Rodríguez-Pascau L, Xiol C, Castells AA, Alcántara S, Rodríguez-Pombo P, Pizcueta P, Martinell M, García-Cazorla A, Oyarzábal A. Mitochondrial modulation with leriglitazone as a potential treatment for Rett syndrome. J Transl Med 2023; 21:756. [PMID: 37884937 PMCID: PMC10601217 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04622-5] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome is a neuropediatric disease occurring due to mutations in MECP2 and characterized by a regression in the neuronal development following a normal postnatal growth, which results in the loss of acquired capabilities such as speech or purposeful usage of hands. While altered neurotransmission and brain development are the center of its pathophysiology, alterations in mitochondrial performance have been previously outlined, shaping it as an attractive target for the disease treatment. METHODS We have thoroughly described mitochondrial performance in two Rett models, patients' primary fibroblasts and female Mecp2tm1.1Bird-/+ mice brain, discriminating between different brain areas. The characterization was made according to their bioenergetics function, oxidative stress, network dynamics or ultrastructure. Building on that, we have studied the effect of leriglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, in the modulation of mitochondrial performance. For that, we treated Rett female mice with 75 mg/kg/day leriglitazone from weaning until sacrifice at 7 months, studying both the mitochondrial performance changes and their consequences on the mice phenotype. Finally, we studied its effect on neuroinflammation based on the presence of reactive glia by immunohistochemistry and through a cytokine panel. RESULTS We have described mitochondrial alterations in Rett fibroblasts regarding both shape and bioenergetic functions, as they displayed less interconnected and shorter mitochondria and reduced ATP production along with increased oxidative stress. The bioenergetic alterations were recalled in Rett mice models, being especially significant in cerebellum, already detectable in pre-symptomatic stages. Treatment with leriglitazone recovered the bioenergetic alterations both in Rett fibroblasts and female mice and exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in the latest, resulting in the amelioration of the mice phenotype both in general condition and exploratory activity. CONCLUSIONS Our studies confirm the mitochondrial dysfunction in Rett syndrome, setting the differences through brain areas and disease stages. Its modulation through leriglitazone is a potential treatment for this disorder, along with other diseases with mitochondrial involvement. This work constitutes the preclinical necessary evidence to lead to a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uliana Musokhranova
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Grau
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Clara Xiol
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba A Castells
- Neural Development Lab, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Soledad Alcántara
- Neural Development Lab, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Rodríguez-Pombo
- Centro de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Moleculares, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CBM-CSIC, Departamento de Biología Molecular, Institute for Molecular Biology-IUBM, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, IDIPAZ, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Marc Martinell
- Minoryx Therapeutics BE S.A., Gosselies, Charleroi, Belgium
- Minoryx Therapeutics S.L., Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angels García-Cazorla
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Oyarzábal
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain.
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain.
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Hustinx M, Shorrocks AM, Servais L. Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Inherited Neuropathies: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1626. [PMID: 37376074 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of inherited neuropathies relies mostly on the treatment of symptoms. In recent years, a better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms that underlie neuropathies has allowed for the development of disease-modifying therapies. Here, we systematically review the therapies that have emerged in this field over the last five years. An updated list of diseases with peripheral neuropathy as a clinical feature was created based on panels of genes used clinically to diagnose inherited neuropathy. This list was extended by an analysis of published data by the authors and verified by two experts. A comprehensive search for studies of human patients suffering from one of the diseases in our list yielded 28 studies that assessed neuropathy as a primary or secondary outcome. Although the use of various scales and scoring systems made comparisons difficult, this analysis identified diseases associated with neuropathy for which approved therapies exist. An important finding is that the symptoms and/or biomarkers of neuropathies were assessed only in a minority of cases. Therefore, further investigation of treatment efficacy on neuropathies in future trials must employ objective, consistent methods such as wearable technologies, motor unit indexes, MRI or sonography imaging, or the use of blood biomarkers associated with consistent nerve conduction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Hustinx
- Department of Paediatrics, MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3DW, UK
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Liège, and University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Ann-Marie Shorrocks
- Department of Paediatrics, MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3DW, UK
| | - Laurent Servais
- Department of Paediatrics, MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre and, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3DW, UK
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Liège, and University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
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Cavestro C, Diodato D, Tiranti V, Di Meo I. Inherited Disorders of Coenzyme A Biosynthesis: Models, Mechanisms, and Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065951. [PMID: 36983025 PMCID: PMC10054636 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Coenzyme A (CoA) is a vital and ubiquitous cofactor required in a vast number of enzymatic reactions and cellular processes. To date, four rare human inborn errors of CoA biosynthesis have been described. These disorders have distinct symptoms, although all stem from variants in genes that encode enzymes involved in the same metabolic process. The first and last enzymes catalyzing the CoA biosynthetic pathway are associated with two neurological conditions, namely pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) and COASY protein-associated neurodegeneration (CoPAN), which belong to the heterogeneous group of neurodegenerations with brain iron accumulation (NBIA), while the second and third enzymes are linked to a rapidly fatal dilated cardiomyopathy. There is still limited information about the pathogenesis of these diseases, and the knowledge gaps need to be resolved in order to develop potential therapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide a summary of CoA metabolism and functions, and a comprehensive overview of what is currently known about disorders associated with its biosynthesis, including available preclinical models, proposed pathomechanisms, and potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cavestro
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Daria Diodato
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Tiranti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Ivano Di Meo
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy
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Pizcueta P, Vergara C, Emanuele M, Vilalta A, Rodríguez-Pascau L, Martinell M. Development of PPARγ Agonists for the Treatment of Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Leriglitazone as a Promising Candidate. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043201. [PMID: 36834611 PMCID: PMC9961553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, plays an important role in physiological processes in the central nervous system (CNS) and is involved in cellular metabolism and repair. Cellular damage caused by acute brain injury and long-term neurodegenerative disorders is associated with alterations of these metabolic processes leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. PPARγ agonists have demonstrated the potential to be effective treatments for CNS diseases in preclinical models, but to date, most drugs have failed to show efficacy in clinical trials of neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. The most likely explanation for this lack of efficacy is the insufficient brain exposure of these PPARγ agonists. Leriglitazone is a novel, blood-brain barrier (BBB)-penetrant PPARγ agonist that is being developed to treat CNS diseases. Here, we review the main roles of PPARγ in physiology and pathophysiology in the CNS, describe the mechanism of action of PPARγ agonists, and discuss the evidence supporting the use of leriglitazone to treat CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Pizcueta
- Minoryx Therapeutics SL, 08302 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Marco Emanuele
- Minoryx Therapeutics BE, Gosselies, 6041 Charleroi, Belgium
| | | | | | - Marc Martinell
- Minoryx Therapeutics SL, 08302 Barcelona, Spain
- Minoryx Therapeutics BE, Gosselies, 6041 Charleroi, Belgium
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Yang J, Shi X, Wang Y, Ma M, Liu H, Wang J, Xu Z. Multi-Target Neuroprotection of Thiazolidinediones on Alzheimer's Disease via Neuroinflammation and Ferroptosis. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 96:927-945. [PMID: 37927258 PMCID: PMC10741341 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the main cause of dementia in older age. The prevalence of AD is growing worldwide, causing a tremendous burden to societies and families. Due to the complexity of its pathogenesis, the current treatment of AD is not satisfactory, and drugs acting on a single target may not prevent AD progression. This review summarizes the multi-target pharmacological effects of thiazolidinediones (TZDs) on AD. TZDs act as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonists and long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase family member 4 (ACSL4) inhibitors. TZDs ameliorated neuroinflammation and ferroptosis in preclinical models of AD. Here, we discussed recent findings from clinical trials of pioglitazone in the treatment of AD, ischemic stroke, and atherosclerosis. We also dissected the major limitations in the clinical application of pioglitazone and explained the potential benefit of pioglitazone in AD. We recommend the use of pioglitazone to prevent cognitive decline and lower AD risk in a specific group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Yang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaohua Shi
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingying Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ming Ma
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Liu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiaoqi Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhongxin Xu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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