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Boehler JF, Brown KJ, Ricotti V, Morris CA. N-terminal titin fragment: a non-invasive, pharmacodynamic biomarker for microdystrophin efficacy. Skelet Muscle 2024; 14:2. [PMID: 38229112 PMCID: PMC10790446 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-023-00334-y] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple clinical trials to assess the efficacy of AAV-directed gene transfer in participants with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are ongoing. The success of these trials currently relies on standard functional outcome measures that may exhibit variability within and between participants, rendering their use as sole measures of drug efficacy challenging. Given this, supportive objective biomarkers may be useful in enhancing observed clinical results. Creatine kinase (CK) is traditionally used as a diagnostic biomarker of DMD, but its potential as a robust pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarker is difficult due to the wide variability seen within the same participant over time. Thus, there is a need for the discovery and validation of novel PD biomarkers to further support and bolster traditional outcome measures of efficacy in DMD. METHOD Potential PD biomarkers in DMD participant urine were examined using a proteomic approach on the Somalogic platform. Findings were confirmed in both mdx mice and Golden Retriever muscular dystrophy (GRMD) dog plasma samples. RESULTS Changes in the N-terminal fragment of titin, a well-known, previously characterized biomarker of DMD, were correlated with the expression of microdystrophin protein in mice, dogs, and humans. Further, titin levels were sensitive to lower levels of expressed microdystrophin when compared to CK. CONCLUSION The measurement of objective PD biomarkers such as titin may provide additional confidence in the assessment of the mechanism of action and efficacy in gene therapy clinical trials of DMD. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03368742.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Boehler
- Solid Biosciences, 500 Rutherford Avenue 3rd Floor, Boston, MA, 02129, USA.
| | - Kristy J Brown
- Rejuvenate Bio, 11425 Sorrento Valley Road, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Valeria Ricotti
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre/University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Carl A Morris
- PHDL Consulting LLC, 43 Sylvanus Wood Lane, Woburn, MA, 01801, USA
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2
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Dabaj I, Ducatez F, Marret S, Bekri S, Tebani A. Neuromuscular disorders in the omics era. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 553:117691. [PMID: 38081447 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117691] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders encompass a spectrum of conditions characterized by primary lesions within the peripheral nervous system, which include the anterior horn cell, peripheral nerve, neuromuscular junction, and muscle. In pediatrics, most of these disorders are linked to genetic causes. Despite the considerable progress, the diagnosis of these disorders remains a challenging due to wide clinical presentation, disease heterogeneity and rarity. It is noteworthy that certain neuromuscular disorders, once deemed untreatable, can now be effectively managed through novel therapies. Biomarkers emerge as indispensable tools, serving as objective measures that not only refine diagnostic accuracy but also provide guidance for therapeutic decision-making and the ongoing monitoring of long-term outcomes. Herein a comprehensive review of biomarkers in neuromuscular disorders is provided. We highlight the role of omics-based technologies that further characterize neuromuscular pathophysiology as well as identify potential therapeutic targets to guide treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Dabaj
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1245, Nord/Est/Ile de France Neuromuscular Reference Center CHU Rouen, Department of Neonatalogy, Pediatric Intensive Care, and Neuropediatrics, F-76000 Rouen, France.
| | - Franklin Ducatez
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1245, Nord/Est/Ile de France Neuromuscular Reference Center CHU Rouen, Department of Neonatalogy, Pediatric Intensive Care, and Neuropediatrics, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Stéphane Marret
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1245, Nord/Est/Ile de France Neuromuscular Reference Center CHU Rouen, Department of Neonatalogy, Pediatric Intensive Care, and Neuropediatrics, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Soumeya Bekri
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1245, CHU Rouen, Department of Metabolic Biochemistry, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - Abdellah Tebani
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM U1245, CHU Rouen, Department of Metabolic Biochemistry, F-76000 Rouen, France
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3
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Dickerson F, Vaidya D, Liu Y, Yolken R. Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Are Elevated in Persons With Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder: The Role of Modifiable Factors. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 3:766-772. [PMID: 37881562 PMCID: PMC10593883 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2023.02.007] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a diverse set of enzymes associated with inflammation. MMP-9 is of particular interest because it has been associated with autoimmune and cardiopulmonary disorders, tobacco smoking, and obesity, prevalent in psychiatric populations. Methods Sensitive enzyme immunoassays measured MMP-9 in blood samples from 1121 individuals (mean age = 35.6 [SD = 13.0] years; 47.7% male; 440 with schizophrenia, 399 with bipolar disorder, and 282 without a psychiatric disorder). We estimated the odds of diagnosis associated with MMP-9, demographic variables, tobacco smoking, and obesity, and also the partial explained variance using regression methods. We also determined the association between psychiatric medications and MMP-9 levels. Results Individuals with elevated MMP-9 levels had higher odds of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder compared with the nonpsychiatric group adjusted for demographic variables. Partial correlation analyses indicated the demographic-adjusted variance associated with MMP-9, smoking, obesity, and their interaction explained 59.6% for schizophrenia and 39.9% for bipolar disorder. Levels of MMP-9 were substantially lower in individuals receiving valproate, particularly relatively high doses. Conclusions Individuals with higher levels of MMP-9 have significantly higher odds of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Individuals receiving valproate had substantially lower levels of MMP-9, possibly related to its ability to inhibit histone deacetylation. A substantial portion of the variance in clinical disorders associated with MMP-9 can be attributed to smoking or obesity. Interventions to reduce smoking and obesity might reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with elevated MMP-9 levels and improve the health outcomes of individuals with these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Dickerson
- Stanley Research Program, Sheppard Pratt, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Dhananjay Vaidya
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yisi Liu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Robert Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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4
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Wijekoon N, Gonawala L, Ratnayake P, Dissanayaka P, Gunarathne I, Amaratunga D, Liyanage R, Senanayaka S, Wijesekara S, Gunasekara HH, Vanarsa K, Castillo J, Hathout Y, Dalal A, Steinbusch HW, Hoffman E, Mohan C, de Silva KRD. Integrated genomic, proteomic and cognitive assessment in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy suggest astrocyte centric pathology. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18530. [PMID: 37593636 PMCID: PMC10432191 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Documented Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) biomarkers are confined to Caucasians and are poor indicators of cognitive difficulties and neuropsychological alterations. Materials and methods This study correlates serum protein signatures with cognitive performance in DMD patients of South Asian origin. Study included 25 DMD patients aged 6-16 years. Cognitive profiles were assessed by Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Serum proteome profiling of 1317 proteins was performed in eight DMD patients and eight age-matched healthy volunteers. Results Among the several novel observations we report, better cognitive performance in DMD was associated with increased serum levels of MMP9 and FN1 but decreased Siglec-3, C4b, and C3b. Worse cognitive performance was associated with increased serum levels of LDH-H1 and PDGF-BB but reduced GDF-11, MMP12, TPSB2, and G1B. Secondly, better cognitive performance in Processing Speed (PSI) and Perceptual Reasoning (PRI) domains was associated with intact Dp116, Dp140, and Dp71 dystrophin isoforms while better performance in Verbal Comprehension (VCI) and Working Memory (WMI) domains was associated with intact Dp116 and Dp140 isoforms. Finally, functional pathways shared with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) point towards an astrocyte-centric model for DMD. Conclusion Astrocytic dysfunction leading to synaptic dysfunction reported previously in AD may be a common pathogenic mechanism underlying both AD and DMD, linking protein alterations to cognitive impairment. This new insight may pave the path towards novel therapeutic approaches targeting reactive astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalaka Wijekoon
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
- Department of Cellular and Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lakmal Gonawala
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
- Department of Cellular and Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Pulasthi Dissanayaka
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Isuru Gunarathne
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Roshan Liyanage
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Saraji Wijesekara
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, 10250, Sri Lanka
- Colombo South Teaching Hospital, 10350, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Kamala Vanarsa
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Houston, Houston, 77204, USA
| | - Jessica Castillo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Houston, Houston, 77204, USA
| | - Yetrib Hathout
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, New York, USA
| | - Ashwin Dalal
- Diagnostics Division, Center for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, India
| | - Harry W.M. Steinbusch
- Department of Cellular and Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Hoffman
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, New York, USA
| | - Chandra Mohan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Houston, Houston, 77204, USA
| | - K. Ranil D. de Silva
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
- Department of Cellular and Translational Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Combinatorial Advanced Research and Education (KDU-CARE), General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Ratmalana, 10390, Sri Lanka
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5
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Johansson C, Hunt H, Signorelli M, Edfors F, Hober A, Svensson AS, Tegel H, Forstström B, Aartsma-Rus A, Niks E, Spitali P, Uhlén M, Szigyarto CAK. Orthogonal proteomics methods warrant the development of Duchenne muscular dystrophy biomarkers. Clin Proteomics 2023; 20:23. [PMID: 37308827 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-023-09412-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular components in blood, such as proteins, are used as biomarkers to detect or predict disease states, guide clinical interventions and aid in the development of therapies. While multiplexing proteomics methods promote discovery of such biomarkers, their translation to clinical use is difficult due to the lack of substantial evidence regarding their reliability as quantifiable indicators of disease state or outcome. To overcome this challenge, a novel orthogonal strategy was developed and used to assess the reliability of biomarkers and analytically corroborate already identified serum biomarkers for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a monogenic incurable disease characterized by progressive muscle damage that currently lacks reliable and specific disease monitoring tools. METHODS Two technological platforms are used to detect and quantify the biomarkers in 72 longitudinally collected serum samples from DMD patients at 3 to 5 timepoints. Quantification of the biomarkers is achieved by detection of the same biomarker fragment either through interaction with validated antibodies in immuno-assays or through quantification of peptides by Parallel Reaction Monitoring Mass Spectrometry assay (PRM-MS). RESULTS Five, out of ten biomarkers previously identified by affinity-based proteomics methods, were confirmed to be associated with DMD using the mass spectrometry-based method. Two biomarkers, carbonic anhydrase III and lactate dehydrogenase B, were quantified with two independent methods, sandwich immunoassays and PRM-MS, with Pearson correlations of 0.92 and 0.946 respectively. The median concentrations of CA3 and LDHB in DMD patients was elevated in comparison to those in healthy individuals by 35- and 3-fold, respectively. Levels of CA3 vary between 10.26 and 0.36 ng/ml in DMD patients whereas those of LDHB vary between 15.1 and 0.8 ng/ml. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that orthogonal assays can be used to assess the analytical reliability of biomarker quantification assays, providing a means to facilitate the translation of biomarkers to clinical practice. This strategy also warrants the development of the most relevant biomarkers, markers that can be reliably quantified with different proteomics methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Johansson
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helian Hunt
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Mirko Signorelli
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Fredrik Edfors
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Andreas Hober
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Anne-Sophie Svensson
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Tegel
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Forstström
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Erik Niks
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pietro Spitali
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Uhlén
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Cristina Al-Khalili Szigyarto
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden.
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6
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Fortunato F, Ferlini A. Biomarkers in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Current Status and Future Directions. J Neuromuscul Dis 2023; 10:987-1002. [PMID: 37545256 PMCID: PMC10657716 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-221666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a severe, X-linked disease characterized by decreased muscle mass and function in children. Genetic and biochemical research over the years has led to the characterization of the cause and the pathophysiology of the disease. Moreover, the elucidation of genetic mechanisms underlining Duchenne muscular dystrophy has allowed for the design of innovative personalized therapies.The identification of specific, accurate, and sensitive biomarkers is becoming crucial for evaluating muscle disease progression and response to therapies, disease monitoring, and the acceleration of drug development and related regulatory processes.This review illustrated the up-to-date progress in the development of candidate biomarkers in DMD at the level of proteins, metabolites, micro-RNAs (miRNAs) and genetic modifiers also highlighting the complexity of translating research results to clinical practice.We highlighted the challenges encountered in translating biomarkers into the clinical context and the existing bottlenecks hampering the adoption of biomarkers as surrogate endpoints. These challenges could be overcome by national and international collaborative efforts, multicenter data sharing, definition of public biobanks and patients' registries, and creation of large cohorts of patients. Novel statistical tools/ models suitable to analyze small patient numbers are also required.Finally, collaborations with pharmaceutical companies would greatly benefit biomarker discovery and their translation in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Fortunato
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferlini
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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7
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van Cruchten RTP, van As D, Glennon JC, van Engelen BGM, 't Hoen PAC, Wenninger S, Daidj F, Cumming S, Littleford R, Monckton DG, Lochmüller H, Catt M, Faber CG, Hapca A, Donnan PT, Gorman G, Bassez G, Schoser B, Knoop H, Treweek S, Wansink DG, Impens F, Gabriels R, Claeys T, Ravel-Chapuis A, Jasmin BJ, Mahon N, Nieuwenhuis S, Martens L, Novak P, Furling D, Baak A, Gourdon G, MacKenzie A, Martinat C, Neault N, Roos A, Duchesne E, Salz R, Thompson R, Baghdoyan S, Varghese AM, Blom P, Spendiff S, Manta A. Clinical improvement of DM1 patients reflected by reversal of disease-induced gene expression in blood. BMC Med 2022; 20:395. [PMID: 36352383 PMCID: PMC9646470 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02591-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: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an incurable multisystem disease caused by a CTG-repeat expansion in the DM1 protein kinase (DMPK) gene. The OPTIMISTIC clinical trial demonstrated positive and heterogenous effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on the capacity for activity and social participations in DM1 patients. Through a process of reverse engineering, this study aims to identify druggable molecular biomarkers associated with the clinical improvement in the OPTIMISTIC cohort. METHODS Based on full blood samples collected during OPTIMISTIC, we performed paired mRNA sequencing for 27 patients before and after the CBT intervention. Linear mixed effect models were used to identify biomarkers associated with the disease-causing CTG expansion and the mean clinical improvement across all clinical outcome measures. RESULTS We identified 608 genes for which their expression was significantly associated with the CTG-repeat expansion, as well as 1176 genes significantly associated with the average clinical response towards the intervention. Remarkably, all 97 genes associated with both returned to more normal levels in patients who benefited the most from CBT. This main finding has been replicated based on an external dataset of mRNA data of DM1 patients and controls, singling these genes out as candidate biomarkers for therapy response. Among these candidate genes were DNAJB12, HDAC5, and TRIM8, each belonging to a protein family that is being studied in the context of neurological disorders or muscular dystrophies. Across the different gene sets, gene pathway enrichment analysis revealed disease-relevant impaired signaling in, among others, insulin-, metabolism-, and immune-related pathways. Furthermore, evidence for shared dysregulations with another neuromuscular disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, was found, suggesting a partial overlap in blood-based gene dysregulation. CONCLUSIONS DM1-relevant disease signatures can be identified on a molecular level in peripheral blood, opening new avenues for drug discovery and therapy efficacy assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remco T P van Cruchten
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniël van As
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey C Glennon
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Baziel G M van Engelen
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter A C 't Hoen
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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8
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Kumar L, Bisen M, Khan A, Kumar P, Patel SKS. Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Musculoskeletal Diseases. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102477. [PMID: 36289739 PMCID: PMC9598837 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, injury, stiffness, and bone loss. The prevalence of these conditions is frequent among elderly populations with significant mobility and mortality rates. This may lead to extreme discomfort and detrimental effect on the patient’s health and socioeconomic situation. Muscles, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissue are vital for body function and movement. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are regulatory proteases involved in synthesizing, degrading, and remodeling extracellular matrix (ECM) components. By modulating ECM reconstruction, cellular migration, and differentiation, MMPs preserve myofiber integrity and homeostasis. In this review, the role of MMPs in skeletal muscle function, muscle injury and repair, skeletal muscle inflammation, and muscular dystrophy and future approaches for MMP-based therapies in musculoskeletal disorders are discussed at the cellular and molecule level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lokender Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, India
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (S.K.S.P.); Tel.: +91-017-9235-0000 (L.K.)
| | - Monish Bisen
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, India
| | - Azhar Khan
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan 173229, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Singh Patel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (S.K.S.P.); Tel.: +91-017-9235-0000 (L.K.)
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9
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Ohlendieck K, Swandulla D. Complexity of skeletal muscle degeneration: multi-systems pathophysiology and organ crosstalk in dystrophinopathy. Pflugers Arch 2021; 473:1813-1839. [PMID: 34553265 PMCID: PMC8599371 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-021-02623-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a highly progressive muscle wasting disorder due to primary abnormalities in one of the largest genes in the human genome, the DMD gene, which encodes various tissue-specific isoforms of the protein dystrophin. Although dystrophinopathies are classified as primary neuromuscular disorders, the body-wide abnormalities that are associated with this disorder and the occurrence of organ crosstalk suggest that a multi-systems pathophysiological view should be taken for a better overall understanding of the complex aetiology of X-linked muscular dystrophy. This article reviews the molecular and cellular effects of deficiency in dystrophin isoforms in relation to voluntary striated muscles, the cardio-respiratory system, the kidney, the liver, the gastrointestinal tract, the nervous system and the immune system. Based on the establishment of comprehensive biomarker signatures of X-linked muscular dystrophy using large-scale screening of both patient specimens and genetic animal models, this article also discusses the potential usefulness of novel disease markers for more inclusive approaches to differential diagnosis, prognosis and therapy monitoring that also take into account multi-systems aspects of dystrophinopathy. Current therapeutic approaches to combat muscular dystrophy are summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Ohlendieck
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, National University of Ireland, Co. Kildare, Maynooth, W23F2H6, Ireland.
- Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Maynooth, W23F2H6, Ireland.
| | - Dieter Swandulla
- Institute of Physiology, University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
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10
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Tsonaka R, Signorelli M, Sabir E, Seyer A, Hettne K, Aartsma-Rus A, Spitali P. Longitudinal metabolomic analysis of plasma enables modeling disease progression in Duchenne muscular dystrophy mouse models. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:745-755. [PMID: 32025735 PMCID: PMC7104681 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a severe pediatric neuromuscular disorder caused by the lack of dystrophin. Identification of biomarkers is needed to support and accelerate drug development. Alterations of metabolites levels in muscle and plasma have been reported in pre-clinical and clinical cross-sectional comparisons. We present here a 7-month longitudinal study comparing plasma metabolomic data in wild-type and mdx mice. A mass spectrometry approach was used to study metabolites in up to five time points per mouse at 6, 12, 18, 24 and 30 weeks of age, providing an unprecedented in depth view of disease trajectories. A total of 106 metabolites were studied. We report a signature of 31 metabolites able to discriminate between healthy and disease at various stages of the disease, covering the acute phase of muscle degeneration and regeneration up to the deteriorating phase. We show how metabolites related to energy production and chachexia (e.g. glutamine) are affected in mdx mice plasma over time. We further show how the signature is connected to molecular targets of nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical compounds currently in development as well as to the nitric oxide synthase pathway (e.g. arginine and citrulline). Finally, we evaluate the signature in a second longitudinal study in three independent mouse models carrying 0, 1 or 2 functional copies of the dystrophin paralog utrophin. In conclusion, we report an in-depth metabolomic signature covering previously identified associations and new associations, which enables drug developers to peripherally assess the effect of drugs on the metabolic status of dystrophic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Tsonaka
- Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Mirko Signorelli
- Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Ekrem Sabir
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kristina Hettne
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
| | - Pietro Spitali
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZC, The Netherlands
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11
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McMillan HJ, Lochmüller H. Biomarkers in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:4-5. [PMID: 34076279 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hugh J McMillan
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Fortunato F, Ferlini A. Clinical application of molecular biomarkers in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: challenges and perspectives. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2021.1903872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Fortunato
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ferlini
- Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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13
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Koutsoulidou A, Phylactou LA. Circulating Biomarkers in Muscular Dystrophies: Disease and Therapy Monitoring. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2020; 18:230-239. [PMID: 32637452 PMCID: PMC7327849 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Muscular dystrophies are a group of inherited disorders that primarily affect the muscle tissues. Across the muscular dystrophies, symptoms commonly compromise the quality of life in all areas of functioning. It is well noted that muscular dystrophies need reliable and measurable biomarkers that will monitor the progress of the disease and evaluate the potential therapeutic approaches. In this review, we analyze the current findings regarding the development of blood-based circulating biomarkers for different types of muscular dystrophies. We emphasize those muscular dystrophies that gained particular interest for the development of biomarkers, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Becker muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy types 1 and 2, Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy, congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A, Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy types 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, recently renamed as limb-girdle muscular dystrophy R1 calpain3-related, R2 dysferlin-related, R5 γ-sarcoglycan-related, and R3 α-sarcoglycan-related. This review highlights the up-to-date progress in the development of biomarkers at the level of proteins, lipids, and metabolites, as well as microRNAs (miRNAs) that currently are the main potential biomarker candidates in muscular dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrie Koutsoulidou
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function & Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, PO Box 23462, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus.,Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, PO Box 23462, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Leonidas A Phylactou
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function & Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, PO Box 23462, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus.,Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, PO Box 23462, 1683 Nicosia, Cyprus
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14
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Al-Khalili Szigyarto C. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: recent advances in protein biomarkers and the clinical application. Expert Rev Proteomics 2020; 17:365-375. [PMID: 32713262 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2020.1773806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early biomarker discovery studies have praised the value of their emerging results, predicting an unprecedented impact on health care. Biomarkers are expected to provide tests with increased specificity and sensitivity compared to existing measures, improve the decision-making process, and accelerate the development of therapies. For rare disorders, like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) such biomarkers can assist the development of therapies, therefore also helping to find a cure for the disease. AREA COVERED State-of-the-art technologies have been used to identify blood biomarkers for DMD and efforts have been coordinated to develop and promote translation of biomarkers for clinical practice. Biomarker translation to clinical practice is however, adjoined by challenges related to the complexity of the disease, involving numerous biological processes, and the limited sample resources. This review highlights the current progress on the development of biomarkers, describing the proteomics technologies used, the most promising findings and the challenges encountered. EXPERT OPINION Strategies for effective use of samples combined with orthogonal proteomics methods for protein quantification are essential for translating biomarkers to the patient's bed side. Progress is achieved only if strong evidence is provided that the biomarker constitutes a reliable indicator of the patient's health status for a specific context of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Al-Khalili Szigyarto
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology , Solna, Sweden.,School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology , Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Signorelli M, Ayoglu B, Johansson C, Lochmüller H, Straub V, Muntoni F, Niks E, Tsonaka R, Persson A, Aartsma-Rus A, Nilsson P, Al-Khalili Szigyarto C, Spitali P. Longitudinal serum biomarker screening identifies malate dehydrogenase 2 as candidate prognostic biomarker for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2020; 11:505-517. [PMID: 31881125 PMCID: PMC7113516 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal disease for which no cure is available. Clinical trials have shown to be largely underpowered due to inter-individual variability and noisy outcome measures. The availability of biomarkers able to anticipate clinical benefit is highly needed to improve clinical trial design and facilitate drug development. METHODS In this study, we aimed to appraise the value of protein biomarkers to predict prognosis and monitor disease progression or treatment outcome in patients affected by DMD. We collected clinical data and 303 blood samples from 157 DMD patients in three clinical centres; 78 patients contributed multiple blood samples over time, with a median follow-up time of 2 years. We employed linear mixed models to identify biomarkers that are associated with disease progression, wheelchair dependency, and treatment with corticosteroids and performed survival analysis to find biomarkers whose levels are associated with time to loss of ambulation. RESULTS Our analysis led to the identification of 21 proteins whose levels significantly decrease with age and nine proteins whose levels significantly increase. Seven of these proteins are also differentially expressed in non-ambulant patients, and three proteins are differentially expressed in patients treated with glucocorticosteroids. Treatment with corticosteroids was found to partly counteract the effect of disease progression on two biomarkers, namely, malate dehydrogenase 2 (MDH2, P = 0.0003) and ankyrin repeat domain 2 (P = 0.0005); however, patients treated with corticosteroids experienced a further reduction on collagen 1 serum levels (P = 0.0003), especially following administration of deflazacort. A time to event analysis allowed to further support the use of MDH2 as a prognostic biomarker as it was associated with an increased risk of wheelchair dependence (P = 0.0003). The obtained data support the prospective evaluation of the identified biomarkers in natural history and clinical trials as exploratory biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS We identified a number of serum biomarkers associated with disease progression, loss of ambulation, and treatment with corticosteroids. The identified biomarkers are promising candidate prognostic and surrogate biomarkers, which may support drug developers if confirmed in prospective studies. The serum levels of MDH2 are of particular interest, as they correlate with disease stage and response to treatment with corticosteroids, and are also associated with the risk of wheelchair dependency and pulmonary function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Signorelli
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Burcu Ayoglu
- Department of Protein Sciences, SciLifeLab, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Camilla Johansson
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Centro Nacional de Análisis Genómico (CNAG-CRG), Center for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Volker Straub
- MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Erik Niks
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roula Tsonaka
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anja Persson
- Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annemieke Aartsma-Rus
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Nilsson
- Division of Affinity Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Department of Protein Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cristina Al-Khalili Szigyarto
- Department of Protein Sciences, SciLifeLab, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Protein Science, School of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pietro Spitali
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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16
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Grounds MD, Terrill JR, Al-Mshhdani BA, Duong MN, Radley-Crabb HG, Arthur PG. Biomarkers for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: myonecrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:13/2/dmm043638. [PMID: 32224496 PMCID: PMC7063669 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.043638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked disease that causes severe loss of muscle mass and function in young children. Promising therapies for DMD are being developed, but the long lead times required when using clinical outcome measures are hindering progress. This progress would be facilitated by robust molecular biomarkers in biofluids, such as blood and urine, which could be used to monitor disease progression and severity, as well as to determine optimal drug dosing before a full clinical trial. Many candidate DMD biomarkers have been identified, but there have been few follow-up studies to validate them. This Review describes the promising biomarkers for dystrophic muscle that have been identified in muscle, mainly using animal models. We strongly focus on myonecrosis and the associated inflammation and oxidative stress in DMD muscle, as the lack of dystrophin causes repeated bouts of myonecrosis, which are the key events that initiate the resultant severe dystropathology. We discuss the early events of intrinsic myonecrosis, along with early regeneration in the context of histological and other measures that are used to quantify its incidence. Molecular biomarkers linked to the closely associated events of inflammation and oxidative damage are discussed, with a focus on research related to protein thiol oxidation and to neutrophils. We summarise data linked to myonecrosis in muscle, blood and urine of dystrophic animal species, and discuss the challenge of translating such biomarkers to the clinic for DMD patients, especially to enhance the success of clinical trials. Summary: This Review discusses biomarkers in blood and urine linked to myonecrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress, to enhance development of therapies for DMD, and the challenges to be overcome for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda D Grounds
- School of Human Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jessica R Terrill
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Basma A Al-Mshhdani
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Marisa N Duong
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Hannah G Radley-Crabb
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health and Innovation Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Peter G Arthur
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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17
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Ebrahimpoor M, Spitali P, Hettne K, Tsonaka R, Goeman J. Simultaneous Enrichment Analysis of all Possible Gene-sets: Unifying Self-Contained and Competitive Methods. Brief Bioinform 2019; 21:1302-1312. [PMID: 31297505 PMCID: PMC7373179 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbz074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Studying sets of genomic features is increasingly popular in genomics, proteomics and metabolomics since analyzing at set level not only creates a natural connection to biological knowledge but also offers more statistical power. Currently, there are two gene-set testing approaches, self-contained and competitive, both of which have their advantages and disadvantages, but neither offers the final solution. We introduce simultaneous enrichment analysis (SEA), a new approach for analysis of feature sets in genomics and other omics based on a new unified null hypothesis, which includes the self-contained and competitive null hypotheses as special cases. We employ closed testing using Simes tests to test this new hypothesis. For every feature set, the proportion of active features is estimated, and a confidence bound is provided. Also, for every unified null hypotheses, a \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
\usepackage{amsmath}
\usepackage{wasysym}
\usepackage{amsfonts}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\usepackage{amsbsy}
\usepackage{upgreek}
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\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}
\begin{document}
}{}$P$\end{document}-value is calculated, which is adjusted for family-wise error rate. SEA does not need to assume that the features are independent. Moreover, users are allowed to choose the feature set(s) of interest after observing the data. We develop a novel pipeline and apply it on RNA-seq data of dystrophin-deficient mdx mice, showcasing the flexibility of the method. Finally, the power properties of the method are evaluated through simulation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitra Ebrahimpoor
- Medical statistics, Department of Biomedical Data Science, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pietro Spitali
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kristina Hettne
- Medical statistics, Department of Biomedical Data Science, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roula Tsonaka
- Medical statistics, Department of Biomedical Data Science, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle Goeman
- Medical statistics, Department of Biomedical Data Science, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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18
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Catapano F, Domingos J, Perry M, Ricotti V, Phillips L, Servais L, Seferian A, Groot ID, Krom YD, Niks EH, Verschuuren JJ, Straub V, Voit T, Morgan J, Muntoni F. Downregulation of miRNA-29, -23 and -21 in urine of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Epigenomics 2018; 10:875-889. [PMID: 29564913 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2018-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To study the signature of 87 urinary miRNAs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients, select the most dysregulated and determine statistically significant differences in their expression between controls, ambulant (A) and nonambulant (NA) DMD patients, and patients on different corticosteroid regimens. Patients/materials & methods: Urine was collected from control (n = 20), A (n = 31) and NA (n = 23) DMD patients. miRNA expression was measured by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. RESULTS miR-29c-3p was significantly downregulated in A DMD patients while miR-23b-3p and miR-21-5p were significantly downregulated in NA DMD patients compared with age-matched controls. CONCLUSION miR-29c-3p, miR-23b-3p and miR-21-5p are promising novel noninvasive biomarkers for DMD, and miR-29c-3p levels are differentially affected by different steroid regimens, supporting the antifibrotic effect of steroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catapano
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Joana Domingos
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Mark Perry
- School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, St Michael's Building, Portsmouth PO1 2DT, UK
| | - Valeria Ricotti
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Lauren Phillips
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Laurent Servais
- Institute I-Motion, Hôpital Armand Trousseau, Paris 75571-12, France.,Centre de Référence des maladies Neuromusculaires, CHU de Liège, Liège 4000, Belgium
| | - Andreea Seferian
- Institute I-Motion, Hôpital Armand Trousseau, Paris 75571-12, France
| | - Imelda de Groot
- Department of Rehabilitation, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne D Krom
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Erik H Niks
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Jgm Verschuuren
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Volker Straub
- Northern Genetics Service, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Institute of Human Genetics, International Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Thomas Voit
- National Institute for Health Research, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Jennifer Morgan
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Molecular Neurosciences Section, Developmental Neurosciences Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK
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19
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Fallon JR, McNally EM. Non-Glycanated Biglycan and LTBP4: Leveraging the extracellular matrix for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy therapeutics. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:616-627. [PMID: 29481844 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays key roles in normal and diseased skeletal and cardiac muscle. In healthy muscle the ECM is essential for transmitting contractile force, maintaining myofiber integrity and orchestrating cellular signaling. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is caused by loss of dystrophin, a cytosolic protein that anchors a transmembrane complex and serves as a vital link between the actin cytoskeleton and the basal lamina. Loss of dystrophin leads to membrane fragility and impaired signaling, resulting in myofiber death and cycles of inflammation and regeneration. Fibrosis is also a cardinal feature of DMD. In this review, we will focus on two cases where understanding the normal function and regulation of ECM in muscle has led to the discovery of candidate therapeutics for DMD. Biglycan is a small leucine rich repeat ECM protein present as two glycoforms in muscle that have dramatically different functions. One widely expressed form is biglycan proteoglycan (PG) that bears two chondroitin sulfate GAG chains (typically chondroitin sulfate) and two N-linked carbohydrates. The second glycoform, referred to as 'NG' (non-glycanated) biglycan, lacks the GAG side chains. NG, but not PG biglycan recruits utrophin, an autosomal paralog of dystrophin, and an NOS-containing signaling complex to the muscle cell membrane. Recombinant NG biglycan can be systemically delivered to dystrophic mice where it upregulates utrophin at the membrane and improves muscle health and function. An optimized version of NG biglycan, 'TVN-102', is under development as a candidate therapeutic for DMD. A second matrix-embedded protein being evaluated for therapeutic potential is latent TGFβ binding protein 4 (LTBP4). Identified in a genomic screen for modifiers of muscular dystrophy, LTBP4 binds both TGFβ and myostatin. Genetic studies identified the hinge region of LTBP4 as linked to TGFβ release and contributing to the "hyper-TGFβ" signaling state that promotes fibrosis in muscular dystrophy. This hinge region can be stabilized by antibodies directed towards this domain. Stabilizing the hinge region of LTBP4 is expected to reduce latent TGFβ release and thus reduce fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R Fallon
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, United States.
| | - Elizabeth M McNally
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
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