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Tankisi H, Bostock H, Tan SV, Howells J, Ng K, Z'Graggen WJ. Muscle excitability testing. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 164:1-18. [PMID: 38805900 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.04.022] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Conventional electrophysiological methods, i.e. nerve conduction studies and electromyography are suitable methods for the diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders, however, they provide limited information about muscle fibre membrane properties and underlying disease mechanisms. Muscle excitability testing is a technique that provides in vivo information about muscle fibre membrane properties such as membrane potential and ion channel function. Since the 1960s, various methodologies have been suggested to examine muscle membrane properties but technical difficulties have limited its use. In 2009, an automated, fast and simple application, the so-called multi-fibre muscle velocity recovery cycles (MVRC) has accelerated the use of muscle excitability testing. Later, frequency ramp and repetitive stimulation protocols have been developed. Though this method has been used mainly in research for revealing disease mechanisms across a broad range of neuromuscular disorders, it may have additional diagnostic uses; value has been shown particularly in muscle channelopathies. This review will provide a description of the state-of-the art of methodological and clinical studies for muscle excitability testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Tankisi
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - H Bostock
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, WC1N 3BG London, United Kingdom
| | - S V Tan
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, WC1N 3BG London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Howells
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - K Ng
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia; University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - W J Z'Graggen
- Departments Neurology and Neurosurgery, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Cannon SC. Periodic paralysis. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 203:39-58. [PMID: 39174253 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-90820-7.00002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Periodic paralysis is a rare, dominantly inherited disorder of skeletal muscle in which episodic attacks of weakness are caused by a transient impairment of fiber excitability. Attacks of weakness are often elicited by characteristic environmental triggers, which were the basis for clinically delineating subtypes of periodic paralysis and are an important distinction for optimal disease management. All forms of familial periodic paralysis are caused by mutations of ion channels, often selectively expressed in skeletal muscle, that destabilize the resting potential. The missense mutations usually alter channel function through gain-of-function changes rather than producing a complete loss-of-function null. The knowledge of which channel gene harbors a variant, whether that variant is expected to (or known to) alter function, and how altered function impairs fiber excitability aides in the interpretation of patient signs and symptoms, the interpretation of gene test results, and how to optimize therapeutic intervention for symptom management and improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Cannon
- Departments of Physiology and of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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Suetterlin K, Mӓnnikkӧ R, Jayaseelan DL. Inherited myotonias. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 203:25-38. [PMID: 39174252 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-90820-7.00008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The inherited myotonias are a complex group of diseases caused by variations in genes that encode or modulate the expression of ion channels that regulate muscle excitability. These variations alter muscle membrane excitability allowing mild depolarization, causing myotonic discharges. There are two groups of inherited myotonia, the dystrophic and the nondystrophic myotonias (NDM). Patients with NDM have a pure muscle phenotype with variations in channel genes expressed in muscle. The dystrophic myotonias are caused by genes that alter splicing leading to more systemic effects with myotonia being one of a number of systemic symptoms. This chapter therefore focuses on the key aspects of the NDMs. The NDMs manifest with varying clinical phenotypes, which change from infancy to adulthood. The pathogenicity of different variants can be determined using heterologous expression systems to understand the alteration in channel properties and predict the likelihood of causing disease. Myotonia itself can be managed by lifestyle modifications. A number of randomized controlled trials demonstrate efficacy of mexiletine and lamotrigine in treating myotonia, but there is an evidence that specific variants may be more or less well-treated by the different agents because of how they alter the channel kinetics. More work is needed to develop more targeted genetic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Suetterlin
- John Walton Centre for Muscular Dystrophy and AGE Research Group, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Roope Mӓnnikkӧ
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dipa L Jayaseelan
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.
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Nuzhnyi EP, Arestova AS, Rossokhin AV, Protopopova AO, Abramycheva NY, Suponeva NA, Illarioshkin SN. Case report: A novel CACNA1S mutation associated with hypokalemic periodic paralysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1267426. [PMID: 37840943 PMCID: PMC10570449 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1267426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoKPP) is a rare neuromuscular genetic disorder causing recurrent episodes of flaccid paralysis. Most cases are associated with CACNA1S mutation, causing defect of calcium channel and subsequent impairment of muscle functions. Due to defined management approaches early diagnosis is crucial for promptly treatment and prevention new attacks. Materials and methods We report a case of HypoKPP associated with previously unreported mutation in CACNA1S gene (p.R900M). Molecular modeling of CaV1.1 was applied to evaluate its pathogenicity. Results As a patient referred between attacks neurological status, laboratory and neurophysiological examination were unremarkable. Molecular modeling predicted that the p.R900M mutation affects the process of calcium channels activation. Conclusion Novel CACNA1S mutation, associated with HypoKPP was identified. Monte-Carlo energy minimization of the CaV1.1 model supported the association of this mutation with this disease.
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Vivekanandam V, Jaibaji R, Sud R, Ellmers R, Skorupinska I, Germaine L, James N, Holmes S, Mannikko R, Jayaseelan D, Hanna MG. Prevalence of genetically confirmed skeletal muscle channelopathies in the era of next generation sequencing. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:270-273. [PMID: 36796140 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
We provide an up-to-date and accurate minimum point prevalence of genetically defined skeletal muscle channelopathies which is important for understanding the population impact, planning for treatment needs and future clinical trials. Skeletal muscle channelopathies include myotonia congenita (MC), sodium channel myotonia (SCM), paramyotonia congenita (PMC), hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (hyperPP), hypokalemic periodic paralysis (hypoPP) and Andersen- Tawil Syndrome (ATS). Patients referred to the UK national referral centre for skeletal muscle channelopathies and living in UK were included to calculate the minimum point prevalence using the latest data from the Office for National Statistics population estimate. We calculated a minimum point prevalence of all skeletal muscle channelopathies of 1.99/100 000 (95% CI 1.981-1.999). The minimum point prevalence of MC due to CLCN1 variants is 1.13/100 000 (95% CI 1.123-1.137), SCN4A variants which encode for PMC and SCM is 0.35/100 000 (95% CI 0.346 - 0.354) and for periodic paralysis (HyperPP and HypoPP) 0.41/100 000 (95% CI 0.406-0.414). The minimum point prevalence for ATS is 0.1/100 000 (95% CI 0.098-0.102). There has been an overall increase in point prevalence in skeletal muscle channelopathies compared to previous reports, with the biggest increase found to be in MC. This can be attributed to next generation sequencing and advances in clinical, electrophysiological and genetic characterisation of skeletal muscle channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinojini Vivekanandam
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Richa Sud
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Ellmers
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Iwona Skorupinska
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Germaine
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie James
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Holmes
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Roope Mannikko
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Dipa Jayaseelan
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Michael G Hanna
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, UCL QS Institute of Neurology, Queens Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
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Vivekanandam V, Jayaseelan D, Hanna MG. Muscle channelopathies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 195:521-532. [PMID: 37562884 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98818-6.00006-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Muscle channelopathies encompass a wide range of mainly episodic conditions that are characterized by muscle stiffness and weakness. The myotonic conditions, characterized predominantly by stiffness, include myotonia congenita, paramyotonia congenita, and sodium channel myotonia. The periodic paralysis conditions include hypokalemic periodic paralysis, hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, and Andersen-Tawil syndrome. Clinical history is key, and diagnosis is confirmed by next-generation genetic sequencing of a panel of known genes but can also be supplemented by neurophysiology studies and MRI. As genetic testing expands, so have the spectrum of phenotypes seen including pediatric presentations and congenital myopathies. Management of these conditions requires a multidisciplinary approach with extra support needed when patients require anesthetics or when pregnant. Patients with Andersen-Tawil syndrome will also need cardiac input. Diagnosis is important as symptomatic treatment is available for all of these conditions but need to be tailored to the gene and variant of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinojini Vivekanandam
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Michael G Hanna
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Queen Square UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.
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Suetterlin K, Matthews E, Sud R, McCall S, Fialho D, Burge J, Jayaseelan D, Haworth A, Sweeney MG, Kullmann DM, Schorge S, Hanna MG, Männikkö R. Translating genetic and functional data into clinical practice: a series of 223 families with myotonia. Brain 2022; 145:607-620. [PMID: 34529042 PMCID: PMC9014745 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput DNA sequencing is increasingly employed to diagnose single gene neurological and neuromuscular disorders. Large volumes of data present new challenges in data interpretation and its useful translation into clinical and genetic counselling for families. Even when a plausible gene is identified with confidence, interpretation of the clinical significance and inheritance pattern of variants can be challenging. We report our approach to evaluating variants in the skeletal muscle chloride channel ClC-1 identified in 223 probands with myotonia congenita as an example of these challenges. Sequencing of CLCN1, the gene that encodes CLC-1, is central to the diagnosis of myotonia congenita. However, interpreting the pathogenicity and inheritance pattern of novel variants is notoriously difficult as both dominant and recessive mutations are reported throughout the channel sequence, ClC-1 structure-function is poorly understood and significant intra- and interfamilial variability in phenotype is reported. Heterologous expression systems to study functional consequences of CIC-1 variants are widely reported to aid the assessment of pathogenicity and inheritance pattern. However, heterogeneity of reported analyses does not allow for the systematic correlation of available functional and genetic data. We report the systematic evaluation of 95 CIC-1 variants in 223 probands, the largest reported patient cohort, in which we apply standardized functional analyses and correlate this with clinical assessment and inheritance pattern. Such correlation is important to determine whether functional data improves the accuracy of variant interpretation and likely mode of inheritance. Our data provide an evidence-based approach that functional characterization of ClC-1 variants improves clinical interpretation of their pathogenicity and inheritance pattern, and serve as reference for 34 previously unreported and 28 previously uncharacterized CLCN1 variants. In addition, we identify novel pathogenic mechanisms and find that variants that alter voltage dependence of activation cluster in the first half of the transmembrane domains and variants that yield no currents cluster in the second half of the transmembrane domain. None of the variants in the intracellular domains were associated with dominant functional features or dominant inheritance pattern of myotonia congenita. Our data help provide an initial estimate of the anticipated inheritance pattern based on the location of a novel variant and shows that systematic functional characterization can significantly refine the assessment of risk of an associated inheritance pattern and consequently the clinical and genetic counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Suetterlin
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- AGE Research Group, NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Emma Matthews
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Atkinson Morley Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Neurology, St Georges University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Richa Sud
- Neurogenetics Unit, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Samuel McCall
- Neurogenetics Unit, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Doreen Fialho
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - James Burge
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Dipa Jayaseelan
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Andrea Haworth
- Neurogenetics Unit, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Mary G Sweeney
- Neurogenetics Unit, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Dimitri M Kullmann
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Schorge
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, UK
| | - Michael G Hanna
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Roope Männikkö
- MRC International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
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Wu F, Quinonez M, Cannon SC. Gating pore currents occur in CaV1.1 domain III mutants associated with HypoPP. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212609. [PMID: 34463712 PMCID: PMC8563280 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202112946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the voltage sensor domain (VSD) of CaV1.1, the α1S subunit of the L-type calcium channel in skeletal muscle, are an established cause of hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP). Of the 10 reported mutations, 9 are missense substitutions of outer arginine residues (R1 or R2) in the S4 transmembrane segments of the homologous domain II, III (DIII), or IV. The prevailing view is that R/X mutations create an anomalous ion conduction pathway in the VSD, and this so-called gating pore current is the basis for paradoxical depolarization of the resting potential and weakness in low potassium for HypoPP fibers. Gating pore currents have been observed for four of the five CaV1.1 HypoPP mutant channels studied to date, the one exception being the charge-conserving R897K in R1 of DIII. We tested whether gating pore currents are detectable for the other three HypoPP CaV1.1 mutations in DIII. For the less conserved R1 mutation, R897S, gating pore currents with exceptionally large amplitude were observed, correlating with the severe clinical phenotype of these patients. At the R2 residue, gating pore currents were detected for R900G but not R900S. These findings show that gating pore currents may occur with missense mutations at R1 or R2 in S4 of DIII and that the magnitude of this anomalous inward current is mutation specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenfen Wu
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles CA
| | - Marbella Quinonez
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles CA
| | - Stephen C Cannon
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles CA
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Maggi L, Bonanno S, Altamura C, Desaphy JF. Ion Channel Gene Mutations Causing Skeletal Muscle Disorders: Pathomechanisms and Opportunities for Therapy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061521. [PMID: 34208776 PMCID: PMC8234207 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle ion channelopathies (SMICs) are a large heterogeneous group of rare genetic disorders caused by mutations in genes encoding ion channel subunits in the skeletal muscle mainly characterized by myotonia or periodic paralysis, potentially resulting in long-term disabilities. However, with the development of new molecular technologies, new genes and new phenotypes, including progressive myopathies, have been recently discovered, markedly increasing the complexity in the field. In this regard, new advances in SMICs show a less conventional role of ion channels in muscle cell division, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Hence, SMICs represent an expanding and exciting field. Here, we review current knowledge of SMICs, with a description of their clinical phenotypes, cellular and molecular pathomechanisms, and available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Maggi
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Silvia Bonanno
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disorders Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Concetta Altamura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.A.); (J.-F.D.)
| | - Jean-François Desaphy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.A.); (J.-F.D.)
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Desaphy JF, Altamura C, Vicart S, Fontaine B. Targeted Therapies for Skeletal Muscle Ion Channelopathies: Systematic Review and Steps Towards Precision Medicine. J Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 8:357-381. [PMID: 33325393 PMCID: PMC8203248 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-200582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skeletal muscle ion channelopathies include non-dystrophic myotonias (NDM), periodic paralyses (PP), congenital myasthenic syndrome, and recently identified congenital myopathies. The treatment of these diseases is mainly symptomatic, aimed at reducing muscle excitability in NDM or modifying triggers of attacks in PP. OBJECTIVE This systematic review collected the evidences regarding effects of pharmacological treatment on muscle ion channelopathies, focusing on the possible link between treatments and genetic background. METHODS We searched databases for randomized clinical trials (RCT) and other human studies reporting pharmacological treatments. Preclinical studies were considered to gain further information regarding mutation-dependent drug effects. All steps were performed by two independent investigators, while two others critically reviewed the entire process. RESULTS For NMD, RCT showed therapeutic benefits of mexiletine and lamotrigine, while other human studies suggest some efficacy of various sodium channel blockers and of the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (CAI) acetazolamide. Preclinical studies suggest that mutations may alter sensitivity of the channel to sodium channel blockers in vitro, which has been translated to humans in some cases. For hyperkalemic and hypokalemic PP, RCT showed efficacy of the CAI dichlorphenamide in preventing paralysis. However, hypokalemic PP patients carrying sodium channel mutations may have fewer benefits from CAI compared to those carrying calcium channel mutations. Few data are available for treatment of congenital myopathies. CONCLUSIONS These studies provided limited information about the response to treatments of individual mutations or groups of mutations. A major effort is needed to perform human studies for designing a mutation-driven precision medicine in muscle ion channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Desaphy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Concetta Altamura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Savine Vicart
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Recherche en Myologie-UMR 974, Reference center in neuro-muscular channelopathies, Institute of Myology, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Bertrand Fontaine
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Recherche en Myologie-UMR 974, Reference center in neuro-muscular channelopathies, Institute of Myology, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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11
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Vivekanandam V, Männikkö R, Matthews E, Hanna MG. Improving genetic diagnostics of skeletal muscle channelopathies. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2020; 20:725-736. [PMID: 32657178 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2020.1782195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Skeletal muscle channelopathies are rare inherited conditions that cause significant morbidity and impact on quality of life. Some subsets have a mortality risk. Improved genetic methodology and understanding of phenotypes have improved diagnostic accuracy and yield. AREAS COVERED We discuss diagnostic advances since the advent of next-generation sequencing and the role of whole exome and genome sequencing. Advances in genotype-phenotype-functional correlations have improved understanding of inheritance and phenotypes. We outline new phenotypes, particularly in the pediatric setting and consider co-existing mutations that may act as genetic modifiers. We also discuss four newly identified genes associated with skeletal muscle channelopathies. EXPERT OPINION Next-generation sequencing using gene panels has improved diagnostic rates, identified new mutations, and discovered patients with co-existing pathogenic mutations ('double trouble'). This field has previously focussed on single genes, but we are now beginning to understand interactions between co-existing mutations, genetic modifiers, and their role in pathomechanisms. New genetic observations in pediatric presentations of channelopathies broadens our understanding of the conditions. Genetic and mechanistic advances have increased the potential to develop treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinojini Vivekanandam
- Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery , London, UK
| | - Roope Männikkö
- Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery , London, UK
| | - Emma Matthews
- Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery , London, UK
| | - Michael G Hanna
- Queen Square Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases and Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL and National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery , London, UK
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Zhao C, Tang D, Huang H, Tang H, Yang Y, Yang M, Luo Y, Tao H, Tang J, Zhou X, Shi X. Myotonia congenita and periodic hypokalemia paralysis in a consanguineous marriage pedigree: Coexistence of a novel CLCN1 mutation and an SCN4A mutation. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233017. [PMID: 32407401 PMCID: PMC7224471 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myotonia congenita and hypokalemic periodic paralysis type 2 are both rare genetic channelopathies caused by mutations in the CLCN1 gene encoding voltage-gated chloride channel CLC-1 and the SCN4A gene encoding voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.4. The patients with concomitant mutations in both genes manifested different unique symptoms from mutations in these genes separately. Here, we describe a patient with myotonia and periodic paralysis in a consanguineous marriage pedigree. By using whole-exome sequencing, a novel F306S variant in the CLCN1 gene and a known R222W mutation in the SCN4A gene were identified in the pedigree. Patch clamp analysis revealed that the F306S mutant reduced the opening probability of CLC-1 and chloride conductance. Our study expanded the CLCN1 mutation database. We emphasized the value of whole-exome sequencing for differential diagnosis in atypical myotonic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - DongFang Tang
- The National & Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haiyan Tang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Intensive Care Unit, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yingying Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huai Tao
- Depatment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianguang Tang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xi Zhou
- The National & Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- * E-mail: (XZ); (XLS)
| | - Xiaoliu Shi
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- * E-mail: (XZ); (XLS)
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13
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Altamura C, Desaphy JF, Conte D, De Luca A, Imbrici P. Skeletal muscle ClC-1 chloride channels in health and diseases. Pflugers Arch 2020; 472:961-975. [PMID: 32361781 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-020-02376-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In 1970, the study of the pathomechanisms underlying myotonia in muscle fibers isolated from myotonic goats highlighted the importance of chloride conductance for skeletal muscle function; 20 years later, the human ClC-1 chloride channel has been cloned; last year, the crystal structure of human protein has been solved. Over the years, the efforts of many researchers led to significant advances in acknowledging the role of ClC-1 in skeletal muscle physiology and the mechanisms through which ClC-1 dysfunctions lead to impaired muscle function. The wide spectrum of pathophysiological conditions associated with modification of ClC-1 activity, either as the primary cause, such as in myotonia congenita, or as a secondary adaptive mechanism in other neuromuscular diseases, supports the idea that ClC-1 is relevant to preserve not only for skeletal muscle excitability, but also for skeletal muscle adaptation to physiological or harmful events. Improving this understanding could open promising avenues toward the development of selective and safe drugs targeting ClC-1, with the aim to restore normal muscle function. This review summarizes the most relevant research on ClC-1 channel physiology, associated diseases, and pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Altamura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Jean-Francois Desaphy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Diana Conte
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Annamaria De Luca
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Imbrici
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
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14
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Pagliarani S, Lucchiari S, Scarlato M, Redaelli E, Modoni A, Magri F, Fossati B, Previtali SC, Sansone VA, Lecchi M, Lo Monaco M, Meola G, Comi GP. Sodium Channel Myotonia Due to Novel Mutations in Domain I of Na v1.4. Front Neurol 2020; 11:255. [PMID: 32411069 PMCID: PMC7201054 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sodium channel myotonia is a form of muscle channelopathy due to mutations that affect the Nav1.4 channel. We describe seven families with a series of symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to clearly myotonic signs that have in common two novel mutations, p.Ile215Thr and p.Gly241Val, in the first domain of the Nav1.4 channel. The families described have been clinically and genetically evaluated. p.Ile215Thr and p.Gly241Val lie, respectively, on extracellular and intracellular loops of the first domain of the Nav1.4 channel. We assessed that the p.Ile215Thr mutation can be related to a founder effect in people from Southern Italy. Electrophysiological evaluation of the channel function showed that the voltage dependence of the activation for both the mutant channels was significantly shifted toward hyperpolarized potentials (Ile215Thr: -28.6 ± 1.5 mV and Gly241Val: -30.2 ± 1.3 mV vs. WT: -18.5 ± 1.3 mV). The slow inactivation was also significantly affected, whereas fast inactivation showed a different behavior in the two mutants. We characterized two novel mutations of the SCN4A gene expanding the knowledge about genetics of mild forms of myotonia, and we present, to our knowledge, the first homozygous patient with sodium channel myotonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Pagliarani
- Dino Ferrari Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sabrina Lucchiari
- Dino Ferrari Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Scarlato
- Department of Neurology and INSPE, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Redaelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Modoni
- Institute of Neurology, Area of Neuroscience, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Magri
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neurology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Fossati
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, casa di Cura del Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valeria A. Sansone
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan; The NEMO (NEuroMuscular Omniservice) Clinical Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Lecchi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences and Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Lo Monaco
- Institute of Neurology, Area of Neuroscience, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- MIA (Myotonics in Association), Portici, Italy
| | - Giovanni Meola
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, casa di Cura del Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo P. Comi
- Dino Ferrari Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Milan, Italy
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15
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Morales F, Pusch M. An Up-to-Date Overview of the Complexity of Genotype-Phenotype Relationships in Myotonic Channelopathies. Front Neurol 2020; 10:1404. [PMID: 32010054 PMCID: PMC6978732 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myotonic disorders are inherited neuromuscular diseases divided into dystrophic myotonias and non-dystrophic myotonias (NDM). The latter is a group of dominant or recessive diseases caused by mutations in genes encoding ion channels that participate in the generation and control of the skeletal muscle action potential. Their altered function causes hyperexcitability of the muscle membrane, thereby triggering myotonia, the main sign in NDM. Mutations in the genes encoding voltage-gated Cl− and Na+ channels (respectively, CLCN1 and SCN4A) produce a wide spectrum of phenotypes, which differ in age of onset, affected muscles, severity of myotonia, degree of hypertrophy, and muscle weakness, disease progression, among others. More than 200 CLCN1 and 65 SCN4A mutations have been identified and described, but just about half of them have been functionally characterized, an approach that is likely extremely helpful to contribute to improving the so-far rather poor clinical correlations present in NDM. The observed poor correlations may be due to: (1) the wide spectrum of symptoms and overlapping phenotypes present in both groups (Cl− and Na+ myotonic channelopathies) and (2) both genes present high genotypic variability. On the one hand, several mutations cause a unique and reproducible phenotype in most patients. On the other hand, some mutations can have different inheritance pattern and clinical phenotypes in different families. Conversely, different mutations can be translated into very similar phenotypes. For these reasons, the genotype-phenotype relationships in myotonic channelopathies are considered complex. Although the molecular bases for the clinical variability present in myotonic channelopathies remain obscure, several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the variability, which include: (a) differential allelic expression; (b) trans-acting genetic modifiers; (c) epigenetic, hormonal, or environmental factors; and (d) dominance with low penetrance. Improvements in clinical tests, the recognition of the different phenotypes that result from particular mutations and the understanding of how a mutation affects the structure and function of the ion channel, together with genetic screening, is expected to improve clinical correlation in NDMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Morales
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Salud, Universidad de Costa, San José, Costa Rica
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