1
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Grit JL, Turner L, Essenburg CJ, Gallik KL, Dischinger PS, Shurlow ND, Pate MJ, Graveel CR, Steensma MR. Ex Vivo Patient-Derived Explant Model for Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Related Cutaneous Neurofibromas. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:2052-2065.e8. [PMID: 38395106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.01.032] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous neurofibromas (CNFs) are benign tumors that occur in the dermis of individuals with the inherited tumor predisposition disorder, neurofibromatosis type 1. CNFs cause disfigurement, pain, burning, and itching, resulting in substantially reduced QOL in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. CNFs are benign tumors that exhibit cellular and molecular heterogeneity, making it difficult to develop tractable in vitro or in vivo models. As a result, CNF research and drug discovery efforts have been limited. To address this need, we developed a reproducible patient-derived explant (PDE) ex vivo culture model using CNF tumors from patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. CNF PDEs remain viable in culture for over 9 days and recapitulate the cellular composition and molecular signaling of CNFs. Using CNF PDEs as a model system, we found that proliferation was associated with increased T-cell infiltration. Furthermore, we identified a pattern of reciprocal inflammatory signaling in CNF PDEs in which tumors rely on prostaglandin or leukotriene-mediated signaling pathways. As proof of principle, we show that ex vivo glucocorticoid treatment reduced the expression of proinflammatory genes, confirming that CNF PDEs are a useful model for both mechanistic studies and preclinical drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Grit
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Lisa Turner
- Pathology and Biorepository Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Curt J Essenburg
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Kristin L Gallik
- Optical Imaging Core, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Patrick S Dischinger
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Carrie R Graveel
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Matthew R Steensma
- Department of Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Corwell Health System, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA.
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2
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Meyerholz DK, Burrough ER, Kirchhof N, Anderson DJ, Helke KL. Swine models in translational research and medicine. Vet Pathol 2024; 61:512-523. [PMID: 38197394 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231222235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Swine are increasingly studied as animal models of human disease. The anatomy, size, longevity, physiology, immune system, and metabolism of swine are more like humans than traditional rodent models. In addition, the size of swine is preferred for surgical placement and testing of medical devices destined for humans. These features make swine useful for biomedical, pharmacological, and toxicological research. With recent advances in gene-editing technologies, genetic modifications can readily and efficiently be made in swine to study genetic disorders. In addition, gene-edited swine tissues are necessary for studies testing and validating xenotransplantation into humans to meet the critical shortfall of viable organs versus need. Underlying all of these biomedical applications, the knowledge of husbandry, background diseases and lesions, and biosecurity needs are important for productive, efficient, and reproducible research when using swine as a human disease model for basic research, preclinical testing, and translational studies.
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3
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Swier VJ, White KA, Negrão de Assis PL, Johnson TB, Leppert HG, Rechtzigel MJ, Meyerholz DK, Dodd RD, Quelle DE, Khanna R, Rogers CS, Weimer JM. NF1 +/ex42del miniswine model the cellular disruptions and behavioral presentations of NF1-associated cognitive and motor impairment. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13858. [PMID: 38932491 PMCID: PMC11208292 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13858] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cognitive or motor impairment is common among individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), an autosomal dominant tumor-predisposition disorder. As many as 70% of children with NF1 report difficulties with spatial/working memory, attention, executive function, and fine motor movements. In contrast to the utilization of various Nf1 mouse models, here we employ an NF1+/ex42del miniswine model to evaluate the mechanisms and characteristics of these presentations, taking advantage of a large animal species more like human anatomy and physiology. The prefrontal lobe, anterior cingulate, and hippocampus from NF1+/ex42del and wild-type miniswine were examined longitudinally, revealing abnormalities in mature oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, and microglial activation over time. Imbalances in GABA: Glutamate ratios and GAD67 expression were observed in the hippocampus and motor cortex, supporting the role of disruption in inhibitory neurotransmission in NF1 cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction. Moreover, NF1+/ex42del miniswine demonstrated slower and shorter steps, indicative of a balance-preserving response commonly observed in NF1 patients, and progressive memory and learning impairments. Collectively, our findings affirm the effectiveness of NF1+/ex42del miniswine as a valuable resource for assessing cognitive and motor impairments associated with NF1, investigating the involvement of specific neural circuits and glia in these processes, and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki J. Swier
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases GroupSanford ResearchSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Katherine A. White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases GroupSanford ResearchSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | | | - Tyler B. Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases GroupSanford ResearchSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Hannah G. Leppert
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases GroupSanford ResearchSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
| | | | | | - Rebecca D. Dodd
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer CenterUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Dawn E. Quelle
- Department of Neuroscience and PharmacologyUniversity of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of MedicineUniversity of FloridaGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | | | - Jill M. Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases GroupSanford ResearchSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of South DakotaSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
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4
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Staedtke V, Anstett K, Bedwell D, Giovannini M, Keeling K, Kesterson R, Kim Y, Korf B, Leier A, McManus ML, Sarnoff H, Vitte J, Walker JA, Plotkin SR, Wallis D. Gene-targeted therapy for neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis: The path to clinical trials. Clin Trials 2024; 21:51-66. [PMID: 37937606 DOI: 10.1177/17407745231207970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Numerous successful gene-targeted therapies are arising for the treatment of a variety of rare diseases. At the same time, current treatment options for neurofibromatosis 1 and schwannomatosis are limited and do not directly address loss of gene/protein function. In addition, treatments have mostly focused on symptomatic tumors, but have failed to address multisystem involvement in these conditions. Gene-targeted therapies hold promise to address these limitations. However, despite intense interest over decades, multiple preclinical and clinical issues need to be resolved before they become a reality. The optimal approaches to gene-, mRNA-, or protein restoration and to delivery to the appropriate cell types remain elusive. Preclinical models that recapitulate manifestations of neurofibromatosis 1 and schwannomatosis need to be refined. The development of validated assays for measuring neurofibromin and merlin activity in animal and human tissues will be critical for early-stage trials, as will the selection of appropriate patients, based on their individual genotypes and risk/benefit balance. Once the safety of gene-targeted therapy for symptomatic tumors has been established, the possibility of addressing a wide range of symptoms, including non-tumor manifestations, should be explored. As preclinical efforts are underway, it will be essential to educate both clinicians and those affected by neurofibromatosis 1/schwannomatosis about the risks and benefits of gene-targeted therapy for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Staedtke
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kara Anstett
- Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Bedwell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Marco Giovannini
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC), University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kim Keeling
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Robert Kesterson
- Department of Cancer Precision Medicine, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - YooRi Kim
- Gilbert Family Foundation, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Bruce Korf
- Department of Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - André Leier
- Department of Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | | | - Jeremie Vitte
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC), University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - James A Walker
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott R Plotkin
- Department of Neurology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deeann Wallis
- Department of Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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5
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Fertitta L, Sarin KY, Bergqvist C, Patel E, Peiffer B, Moryousef S, Armand ML, Jannic A, Ferkal S, Ravaud P, Tran VT, Blakeley JO, Romo CG, Ezzedine K, Wolkenstein P. cNF-Skindex in Adults Living with Neurofibromatosis 1: Severity Strata in France and Validation in United States Adults. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:2226-2232.e1. [PMID: 37149083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous neurofibromas (cNF) contribute to the impairment of QOL in individuals with neurofibromatosis 1. The cNF-Skindex, validated in a French population, specifically assesses the cNF-related QOL. In this study, we first defined severity strata using an anchoring approach on the basis of patient's burden. In total, 209 patients answered the anchor question and the cNF-Skindex. We tested the agreement among the three strata, generated by all potential couples of cut-off values of the cNF-Skindex and the three strata defined in the anchor question. The cut-off values 12 and 49 provided the highest Kappa value (κ = 0.685, 95% confidence interval = 0.604-0.765). Second, we validated the score and the strata in a United States population using the answers provided by 220 French and 148 United States adults. In the multivariable linear regression analysis, the country of origin was not a factor associated with the score (P = 0.297). The number of cNF along the different severity strata was similar between the French and the United States populations. In conclusion, stratification constitutes a powerful tool to better interpret the cNF-Skindex in daily practice and in clinical trials. This study validates its use in two populations that together constitute a large cohort of patients willing to participate in clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fertitta
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Inserm U955, Mondor Institute for Biomedical Research, Creteil, France.
| | - Kavita Y Sarin
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - Christina Bergqvist
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Ekshika Patel
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, California, USA
| | - Bastien Peiffer
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Sabine Moryousef
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Marie-Laure Armand
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Arnaud Jannic
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Salah Ferkal
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France
| | - Philippe Ravaud
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Hôtel-Dieu Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, INRAE, Center for Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, Paris, France
| | - Viet-Thi Tran
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Hôtel-Dieu Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, INRAE, Center for Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, Paris, France
| | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carlos G Romo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Khaled Ezzedine
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Pierre Wolkenstein
- Department of Dermatology, National Referral Center for Neurofibromatosis, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Clinical Investigation Center, Inserm 1430, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Creteil, France; Inserm U955, Mondor Institute for Biomedical Research, Creteil, France; Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
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6
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Staedtke V, Topilko P, Le LQ, Grimes K, Largaespada DA, Cagan RL, Steensma MR, Stemmer-Rachamimov A, Blakeley JO, Rhodes SD, Ly I, Romo CG, Lee SY, Serra E. Existing and Developing Preclinical Models for Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Related Cutaneous Neurofibromas. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:1378-1387. [PMID: 37330719 PMCID: PMC11246562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is caused by a nonfunctional copy of the NF1 tumor suppressor gene that predisposes patients to the development of cutaneous neurofibromas (cNFs), the skin tumor that is the hallmark of this condition. Innumerable benign cNFs, each appearing by an independent somatic inactivation of the remaining functional NF1 allele, form in nearly all patients with NF1. One of the limitations in developing a treatment for cNFs is an incomplete understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and limitations in experimental modeling. Recent advances in preclinical in vitro and in vivo modeling have substantially enhanced our understanding of cNF biology and created unprecedented opportunities for therapeutic discovery. We discuss the current state of cNF preclinical in vitro and in vivo model systems, including two- and three-dimensional cell cultures, organoids, genetically engineered mice, patient-derived xenografts, and porcine models. We highlight the models' relationship to human cNFs and how they can be used to gain insight into cNF development and therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Staedtke
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
| | - Piotr Topilko
- Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Créteil, France
| | - Lu Q Le
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kevin Grimes
- SPARK Program in Translational Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA; Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - David A Largaespada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ross L Cagan
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew R Steensma
- Center for Cancer and Cell Biology, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Anat Stemmer-Rachamimov
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven D Rhodes
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ina Ly
- Stephen E. and Catherine Pappas Center for Neuro-Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos G Romo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sang Y Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eduard Serra
- Hereditary Cancer Group, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Can Ruti Campus, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
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7
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Knoernschild K, Johnson HJ, Schroeder KE, Swier VJ, White KA, Sato TS, Rogers CS, Weimer JM, Sieren JC. Magnetic resonance brain volumetry biomarkers of CLN2 Batten disease identified with miniswine model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5146. [PMID: 36991106 PMCID: PMC10060411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2 (CLN2) disease (Batten disease) is a rare pediatric disease, with symptom development leading to clinical diagnosis. Early diagnosis and effective tracking of disease progression are required for treatment. We hypothesize that brain volumetry is valuable in identifying CLN2 disease at an early stage and tracking disease progression in a genetically modified miniswine model. CLN2R208X/R208X miniswine and wild type controls were evaluated at 12- and 17-months of age, correlating to early and late stages of disease progression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T1- and T2-weighted data were acquired. Total intercranial, gray matter, cerebrospinal fluid, white matter, caudate, putamen, and ventricle volumes were calculated and expressed as proportions of the intracranial volume. The brain regions were compared between timepoints and cohorts using Gardner-Altman plots, mean differences, and confidence intervals. At an early stage of disease, the total intracranial volume (- 9.06 cm3), gray matter (- 4.37% 95 CI - 7.41; - 1.83), caudate (- 0.16%, 95 CI - 0.24; - 0.08) and putamen (- 0.11% 95 CI - 0.23; - 0.02) were all notably smaller in CLN2R208X/R208X miniswines versus WT, while cerebrospinal fluid was larger (+ 3.42%, 95 CI 2.54; 6.18). As the disease progressed to a later stage, the difference between the gray matter (- 8.27%, 95 CI - 10.1; - 5.56) and cerebrospinal fluid (+ 6.88%, 95 CI 4.31; 8.51) continued to become more pronounced, while others remained stable. MRI brain volumetry in this miniswine model of CLN2 disease is sensitive to early disease detection and longitudinal change monitoring, providing a valuable tool for pre-clinical treatment development and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Knoernschild
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Drive cc704 GH, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Hans J Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kimberly E Schroeder
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Drive cc704 GH, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Vicki J Swier
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Katherine A White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Takashi S Sato
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Drive cc704 GH, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | | | - Jill M Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jessica C Sieren
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, 200 Hawkins Drive cc704 GH, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
- Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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8
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Swier VJ, White KA, Johnson TB, Sieren JC, Johnson HJ, Knoernschild K, Wang X, Rohret FA, Rogers CS, Pearce DA, Brudvig JJ, Weimer JM. A Novel Porcine Model of CLN2 Batten Disease that Recapitulates Patient Phenotypes. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:1905-1919. [PMID: 36100791 PMCID: PMC9723024 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01296-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CLN2 Batten disease is a lysosomal disorder in which pathogenic variants in CLN2 lead to reduced activity in the enzyme tripeptidyl peptidase 1. The disease typically manifests around 2 to 4 years of age with developmental delay, ataxia, seizures, inability to speak and walk, and fatality between 6 and 12 years of age. Multiple Cln2 mouse models exist to better understand the etiology of the disease; however, these models are unable to adequately recapitulate the disease due to differences in anatomy and physiology, limiting their utility for therapeutic testing. Here, we describe a new CLN2R208X/R208X porcine model of CLN2 disease. We present comprehensive characterization showing behavioral, pathological, and visual phenotypes that recapitulate those seen in CLN2 patients. CLN2R208X/R208X miniswine present with gait abnormalities at 6 months of age, ERG waveform declines at 6-9 months, vision loss at 11 months, cognitive declines at 12 months, seizures by 15 months, and early death at 18 months due to failure to thrive. CLN2R208X/R208X miniswine also showed classic storage material accumulation and glial activation in the brain at 6 months, and cortical atrophy at 12 months. Thus, the CLN2R208X/R208X miniswine model is a valuable resource for biomarker discovery and therapeutic development in CLN2 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki J Swier
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Katherine A White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Tyler B Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jessica C Sieren
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Hans J Johnson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kevin Knoernschild
- Department of Radiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | | | | | - David A Pearce
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jon J Brudvig
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jill M Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
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9
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Lunney JK, Van Goor A, Walker KE, Hailstock T, Franklin J, Dai C. Importance of the pig as a human biomedical model. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabd5758. [PMID: 34818055 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd5758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan K Lunney
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Angelica Van Goor
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Kristen E Walker
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Taylor Hailstock
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Jasmine Franklin
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Chaohui Dai
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, BARC, NEA, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
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10
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Rabab’h O, Gharaibeh A, Al-Ramadan A, Ismail M, Shah J. Pharmacological Approaches in Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Nervous System Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153880. [PMID: 34359780 PMCID: PMC8345673 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common cancer predisposition genetic disease that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In this literature review, we discuss the major pathways in the nervous system that are affected by NF1, tumors that are associated with NF1, drugs that target these pathways, and genetic models of NF1. We also summarize the latest updates from clinical trials that are evaluating pharmacological agents to treat these tumors and discuss the efforts that are being made to cure the disease in the future Abstract Neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant genetic disease and a common tumor predisposition syndrome that affects 1 in 3000 to 4000 patients in the USA. Although studies have been conducted to better understand and manage this disease, the underlying pathogenesis of neurofibromatosis type 1 has not been completely elucidated, and this disease is still associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Treatment options are limited to surgery with chemotherapy for tumors in cases of malignant transformation. In this review, we summarize the advances in the development of targeted pharmacological interventions for neurofibromatosis type 1 and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Rabab’h
- Insight Research Institute, Flint, MI 48507, USA; (O.R.); (A.G.); (A.A.-R.); (M.I.)
- Center for Cognition and Neuroethics, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI 48502, USA
| | - Abeer Gharaibeh
- Insight Research Institute, Flint, MI 48507, USA; (O.R.); (A.G.); (A.A.-R.); (M.I.)
- Center for Cognition and Neuroethics, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI 48502, USA
- Insight Institute of Neurosurgery & Neuroscience, Flint, MI 48507, USA
- Insight Surgical Hospital, Warren, MI 48091, USA
| | - Ali Al-Ramadan
- Insight Research Institute, Flint, MI 48507, USA; (O.R.); (A.G.); (A.A.-R.); (M.I.)
- Center for Cognition and Neuroethics, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI 48502, USA
| | - Manar Ismail
- Insight Research Institute, Flint, MI 48507, USA; (O.R.); (A.G.); (A.A.-R.); (M.I.)
| | - Jawad Shah
- Insight Research Institute, Flint, MI 48507, USA; (O.R.); (A.G.); (A.A.-R.); (M.I.)
- Center for Cognition and Neuroethics, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI 48502, USA
- Insight Institute of Neurosurgery & Neuroscience, Flint, MI 48507, USA
- Insight Surgical Hospital, Warren, MI 48091, USA
- Department of Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Correspondence:
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Osum SH, Watson AL, Largaespada DA. Spontaneous and Engineered Large Animal Models of Neurofibromatosis Type 1. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1954. [PMID: 33669386 PMCID: PMC7920315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are crucial to understanding human disease biology and developing new therapies. By far the most common animal used to investigate prevailing questions about human disease is the mouse. Mouse models are powerful tools for research as their small size, limited lifespan, and defined genetic background allow researchers to easily manipulate their genome and maintain large numbers of animals in general laboratory spaces. However, it is precisely these attributes that make them so different from humans and explains, in part, why these models do not accurately predict drug responses in human patients. This is particularly true of the neurofibromatoses (NFs), a group of genetic diseases that predispose individuals to tumors of the nervous system, the most common of which is Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Despite years of research, there are still many unanswered questions and few effective treatments for NF1. Genetically engineered mice have drastically improved our understanding of many aspects of NF1, but they do not exemplify the overall complexity of the disease and some findings do not translate well to humans due to differences in body size and physiology. Moreover, NF1 mouse models are heavily reliant on the Cre-Lox system, which does not accurately reflect the molecular mechanism of spontaneous loss of heterozygosity that accompanies human tumor development. Spontaneous and genetically engineered large animal models may provide a valuable supplement to rodent studies for NF1. Naturally occurring comparative models of disease are an attractive prospect because they occur on heterogeneous genetic backgrounds and are due to spontaneous rather than engineered mutations. The use of animals with naturally occurring disease has been effective for studying osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and diabetes. Spontaneous NF-like symptoms including neurofibromas and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) have been documented in several large animal species and share biological and clinical similarities with human NF1. These animals could provide additional insight into the complex biology of NF1 and potentially provide a platform for pre-clinical trials. Additionally, genetically engineered porcine models of NF1 have recently been developed and display a variety of clinical features similar to those seen in NF1 patients. Their large size and relatively long lifespan allow for longitudinal imaging studies and evaluation of innovative surgical techniques using human equipment. Greater genetic, anatomic, and physiologic similarities to humans enable the engineering of precise disease alleles found in human patients and make them ideal for preclinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies of small molecule, cellular, and gene therapies prior to clinical trials in patients. Comparative genomic studies between humans and animals with naturally occurring disease, as well as preclinical studies in large animal disease models, may help identify new targets for therapeutic intervention and expedite the translation of new therapies. In this review, we discuss new genetically engineered large animal models of NF1 and cases of spontaneous NF-like manifestations in large animals, with a special emphasis on how these comparative models could act as a crucial translational intermediary between specialized murine models and NF1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara H. Osum
- Masonic Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | | | - David A. Largaespada
- Masonic Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
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An executive functioning perspective in neurofibromatosis type 1: from ADHD and autism spectrum disorder to research domains. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:2321-2332. [PMID: 32617712 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-020-04745-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a rare monogenic disorder associated with executive function (EF) deficits and heightened risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The goal of this paper is to understand how EFs provide a common foundation to understand vulnerabilities for ADHD and ASD within NF1. METHODS A literature review and synthesis was conducted. RESULTS EF difficulties in working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and planning are evident in NF1, ADHD, and ASD. However, relatively little is known about the heterogeneity of EFs and ADHD and ASD outcomes in NF1. Assessment of ADHD and ASD in NF1 is based on behavioral symptoms without understanding neurobiological contributions. Recent efforts are promoting the use of dimensional and multidisciplinary methods to better understand normal and abnormal behavior, including integrating information from genetics to self-report measures. CONCLUSION NF1 is a monogenic disease with well-developed molecular and phenotypic research as well as complementary animal models. NF1 presents an excellent opportunity to advance our understanding of the neurobiological impact of known pathogenic variation in normal and abnormal neural pathways implicated in human psychopathology. EFs are core features of NF1, ADHD, and ASD, and these neurodevelopmental outcomes are highly prevalent in NF1. We propose a multilevel approach for understanding EFs in patients with NF1.This is essential to advance targeted interventions for NF1 patients and to advance the exciting field of research in this condition.
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Cui XW, Ren JY, Gu YH, Li QF, Wang ZC. NF1, Neurofibromin and Gene Therapy: Prospects of Next-Generation Therapy. Curr Gene Ther 2020; 20:100-108. [PMID: 32767931 DOI: 10.2174/1566523220666200806111451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 [NF1] is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder affecting multiple organs. NF1 is well known for its various clinical manifestations, including café-au-late macules, Lisch nodules, bone deformity and neurofibromas. However, there is no effective therapy for NF1. Current therapies are aimed at alleviating NF1 clinical symptoms but not curing the disease. By altering pathogenic genes, gene therapy regulates cell activities at the nucleotide level. In this review, we described the structure and functions of neurofibromin domains, including GAP-related domain [GRD], cysteine-serine rich domain [CSRD], leucine-rich domain [LRD] and C-terminal domain [CTD], which respectively alter downstream pathways. By transfecting isolated sequences of these domains, researchers can partially restore normal cell functions in neurofibroma cell lines. Furthermore, recombinant transgene sequences may be designed to encode truncated proteins, which is functional and easy to be packaged into viral vectors. In addition, the treatment effect of gene therapy is also determined by various factors such as the vectors selection, transgene packaging strategies and drug administration. We summarized multiple NF1 gene therapy strategies and discussed their feasibility from multiple angles. Different protein domains alter the function and downstream pathways of neurofibromin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Wei Cui
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jie-Yi Ren
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yi-Hui Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qing-Feng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Zhi-Chao Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
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