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De Grado A, Pisciotta C, Saveri P, Pareyson D. Will new investigational drugs change the way we treat Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease? Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:653-656. [PMID: 38712465 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2352635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amedeo De Grado
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pisciotta
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Saveri
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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Stavrou M, Kleopa KA. Gene therapies for CMT neuropathies: from the bench to the clinic. Curr Opin Neurol 2024:00019052-990000000-00173. [PMID: 38873808 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) neuropathies are rare, genetically heterogeneous and progressive diseases for which there are no approved treatments and their management remains mostly supportive and symptomatic. This review is intended to provide an update on recent developments in gene therapies for different CMT neuropathies. RECENT FINDINGS Increasing knowledge of disease pathomechanisms underlying several CMT types has facilitated the development of promising viral and nonviral gene therapy approaches. Some of these therapies are currently approaching the crucial step of moving from the bench to the clinic, having passed the proof-of-concept stage in rodent models and some also in larger animals. However, questions of optimal delivery route and dose, off-target effects, and possible payload toxicity remain to be clarified for several of these approaches. Furthermore, limited resources, the rarity of most CMT subtypes, and issues of safety and regulatory requirements, create the need for consensus guidelines and optimal clinical trial design. SUMMARY Promising gene therapies have been developed for several CMT neuropathies, with proof-of-principle demonstrated in relevant disease models. Advantages and drawbacks of each approach are discussed and remaining challenges are highlighted. Furthermore, we suggest important parameters that should be considered in order to successfully translate them into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics
| | - Kleopas A Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics
- Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
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3
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Scherer SS, Svaren J. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) Myelin Diseases. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2024; 16:a041376. [PMID: 38253417 PMCID: PMC11065170 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
This is a review of inherited and acquired causes of human demyelinating neuropathies and a subset of disorders that affect axon-Schwann cell interactions. Nearly all inherited demyelinating neuropathies are caused by mutations in genes that are expressed by myelinating Schwann cells, affecting diverse functions in a cell-autonomous manner. The most common acquired demyelinating neuropathies are Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic, inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, both of which are immune-mediated. An additional group of inherited and acquired disorders affect axon-Schwann cell interactions in the nodal region. Overall, these disorders affect the formation of myelin and its maintenance, with superimposed axonal loss that is clinically important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven S Scherer
- Department of Neurology, The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - John Svaren
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53705, USA
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Shi S, Ou X, Cheng D. Nanoparticle-Facilitated Therapy: Advancing Tools in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:19-34. [PMID: 38187908 PMCID: PMC10771795 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s442775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries, arising from a diverse range of etiologies such as trauma and underlying medical conditions, pose substantial challenges in both clinical management and subsequent restoration of functional capacity. Addressing these challenges, nanoparticles have emerged as a promising therapeutic modality poised to augment the process of peripheral nerve regeneration. However, a comprehensive elucidation of the complicated mechanistic foundations responsible for the favorable effects of nanoparticle-based therapy on nerve regeneration remains imperative. This review aims to scrutinize the potential of nanoparticles as innovative therapeutic carriers for promoting peripheral nerve repair. This review encompasses an in-depth exploration of the classifications and synthesis methodologies associated with nanoparticles. Additionally, we discuss and summarize the multifaceted roles that nanoparticles play, including neuroprotection, facilitation of axonal growth, and efficient drug delivery mechanisms. Furthermore, we present essential considerations and highlight the potential synergies of integrating nanoparticles with emerging technologies. Through this comprehensive review, we highlight the indispensable role of nanoparticles in propelling advancements in peripheral nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyan Shi
- Department of Hand Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an Honghui Hospital North District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuehai Ou
- Department of Hand Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an Honghui Hospital North District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Deliang Cheng
- Department of Hand Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an Honghui Hospital North District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710000, People’s Republic of China
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Zeng S, Yang H, Wang B, Xie Y, Xu K, Liu L, Cao W, Liu X, Tang B, Liu M, Zhang R. The MORC2 p.S87L mutation reduces proliferation of pluripotent stem cells derived from a patient with the spinal muscular atrophy-like phenotype by inhibiting proliferation-related signaling pathways. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:205-211. [PMID: 37488868 PMCID: PMC10479865 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.375347] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the microrchidia CW-type zinc finger protein 2 (MORC2) gene are the causative agent of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2Z (CMT2Z), and the hotspot mutation p.S87L is associated with a more severe spinal muscular atrophy-like clinical phenotype. The aims of this study were to determine the mechanism of the severe phenotype caused by the MORC2 p.S87L mutation and to explore potential treatment strategies. Epithelial cells were isolated from urine samples from a spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)-like patient (MORC2 p.S87L), a CMT2Z patient (MORC2 p.Q400R), and a healthy control and induced to generate pluripotent stem cells, which were then differentiated into motor neuron precursor cells. Next-generation RNA sequencing followed by KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes involved in the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways were enriched in the p.S87L SMA-like patient group and were significantly downregulated in induced pluripotent stem cells. Reduced proliferation was observed in the induced pluripotent stem cells and motor neuron precursor cells derived from the p.S87L SMA-like patient group compared with the CMT2Z patient group and the healthy control. G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest was observed in induced pluripotent stem cells derived from the p.S87L SMA-like patient. MORC2 p.S87L-specific antisense oligonucleotides (p.S87L-ASO-targeting) showed significant efficacy in improving cell proliferation and activating the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways in induced pluripotent stem cells. However, p.S87L-ASO-targeting did not rescue proliferation of motor neuron precursor cells. These findings suggest that downregulation of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways leading to reduced cell proliferation and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest in induced pluripotent stem cells might be the underlying mechanism of the severe p.S87L SMA-like phenotype. p.S87L-ASO-targeting treatment can alleviate disordered cell proliferation in the early stage of pluripotent stem cell induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Zeng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Honglan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Binghao Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yongzhi Xie
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wanqian Cao
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xionghao Liu
- Center for Medical Genetics & Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Beisha Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Mujun Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ruxu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
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Nam YH, Park S, Yum Y, Jeong S, Park HE, Kim HJ, Lim J, Choi BO, Jung SC. Preclinical Efficacy of Peripheral Nerve Regeneration by Schwann Cell-like Cells Differentiated from Human Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in C22 Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3334. [PMID: 38137555 PMCID: PMC10741921 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a hereditary disease with heterogeneous phenotypes and genetic causes. CMT type 1A (CMT1A) is a type of disease affecting the peripheral nerves and is caused by the duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene. Human tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (TMSCs) are useful for stem cell therapy in various diseases and can be differentiated into Schwann cell-like cells (TMSC-SCs). We investigated the potential of TMSC-SCs called neuronal regeneration-promoting cells (NRPCs) for peripheral nerve and muscle regeneration in C22 mice, a model for CMT1A. We transplanted NRPCs manufactured in a good manufacturing practice facility into the bilateral thigh muscles of C22 mice and performed behavior and nerve conduction tests and histological and ultrastructural analyses. Significantly, the motor function was much improved, the ratio of myelinated axons was increased, and the G-ratio was reduced by the transplantation of NRPCs. The sciatic nerve and gastrocnemius muscle regeneration of C22 mice following the transplantation of NRPCs downregulated PMP22 overexpression, which was observed in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that NRPCs are feasible for clinical research for the treatment of CMT1A patients. Research applying NRPCs to other peripheral nerve diseases is also needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Hwa Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea; (Y.H.N.); (S.P.); (Y.Y.); (S.J.)
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea
| | - Saeyoung Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea; (Y.H.N.); (S.P.); (Y.Y.); (S.J.)
| | - Yoonji Yum
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea; (Y.H.N.); (S.P.); (Y.Y.); (S.J.)
| | - Soyeon Jeong
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea; (Y.H.N.); (S.P.); (Y.Y.); (S.J.)
| | - Hyo Eun Park
- Cellatoz Therapeutics Inc., Seongnam-si 13487, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (H.E.P.); (H.J.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Cellatoz Therapeutics Inc., Seongnam-si 13487, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (H.E.P.); (H.J.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Jaeseung Lim
- Cellatoz Therapeutics Inc., Seongnam-si 13487, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (H.E.P.); (H.J.K.); (J.L.)
| | - Byung-Ok Choi
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sung-Chul Jung
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea; (Y.H.N.); (S.P.); (Y.Y.); (S.J.)
- Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea
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Yoshioka Y, Taniguchi JB, Homma H, Tamura T, Fujita K, Inotsume M, Tagawa K, Misawa K, Matsumoto N, Nakagawa M, Inoue H, Tanaka H, Okazawa H. AAV-mediated editing of PMP22 rescues Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A features in patient-derived iPS Schwann cells. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2023; 3:170. [PMID: 38017287 PMCID: PMC10684506 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-023-00400-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) is one of the most common hereditary peripheral neuropathies caused by duplication of 1.5 Mb genome region including PMP22 gene. We aimed to correct the duplication in human CMT1A patient-derived iPS cells (CMT1A-iPSCs) by genome editing and intended to analyze the effect on Schwann cells differentiated from CMT1A-iPSCs. METHODS We designed multiple gRNAs targeting a unique sequence present at two sites that sandwich only a single copy of duplicated peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) genes, and selected one of them (gRNA3) from screening their efficiencies by T7E1 mismatch detection assay. AAV2-hSaCas9-gRNAedit was generated by subcloning gRNA3 into pX601-AAV-CMV plasmid, and the genome editing AAV vector was infected to CMT1A-iPSCs or CMT1A-iPSC-derived Schwann cell precursors. The effect of the genome editing AAV vector on myelination was evaluated by co-immunostaining of myelin basic protein (MBP), a marker of mature myelin, and microtubule-associated protein 2(MAP2), a marker of neurites or by electron microscopy. RESULTS Here we show that infection of CMT1A-iPS cells (iPSCs) with AAV2-hSaCas9-gRNAedit expressing both hSaCas9 and gRNA targeting the tandem repeat sequence decreased PMP22 gene duplication by 20-40%. Infection of CMT1A-iPSC-derived Schwann cell precursors with AAV2-hSaCas9-gRNAedit normalized PMP22 mRNA and PMP22 protein expression levels, and also ameliorated increased apoptosis and impaired myelination in CMT1A-iPSC-derived Schwann cells. CONCLUSIONS In vivo transfer of AAV2-hSaCas9-gRNAedit to peripheral nerves could be a potential therapeutic modality for CMT1A patient after careful examinations of toxicity including off-target mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Yoshioka
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Juliana Bosso Taniguchi
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hidenori Homma
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Takuya Tamura
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kyota Fujita
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Maiko Inotsume
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Tagawa
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Misawa
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0027, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Masanori Nakagawa
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Haruhisa Inoue
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
- Drug-discovery cellular basis development team, RIKEN BioResource Center, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hikari Tanaka
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
| | - Hitoshi Okazawa
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
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Itson-Zoske B, Gani U, Mikesell A, Qiu C, Fan F, Stucky C, Hogan Q, Shin SM, Yu H. Selective RNAi-silencing of Schwann cell Piezo1 alleviates mechanical hypersensitization following peripheral nerve injury. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3405016. [PMID: 37886453 PMCID: PMC10602140 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3405016/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported functional Piezo1 expression in Schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system. This study is designed to further investigate the role of Schwann cell Piezo1 in peripheral nociception. We first developed an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector that has primary Schwann cell tropism after delivery into the sciatic nerve. This was achieved by packing AAV-GFP transcribed by a hybrid CMV enhancer/chicken β-actin (CBA) promoter using a capsid AAVolig001 to generate AAVolig001-CBA-GFP. Five weeks after intrasciatic injection of AAVolig001-CBA-GFP in naïve rats, GFP expression was detected selectively in the Schwann cells of the sciatic nerve. A short hairpin RNA against rat Piezo1 (PZ1shRNA) was designed that showed efficient physical and functional knockdown of Piezo1 in NG108 neuronal cells. A dual promoter and bidirectional AAV encoding a U6-driven PZ1shRNA and CBA-transcribed GFP was packed with capsid olig001 (AAVolig001-PZ1shRNA), and AAV was injected into unilateral sciatic nerve immediately after induction of common peroneal nerve injury (CPNI). Results showed that the development of mechanical hypersensitivity in the CPNI rats injected with AAVolig001-PZ1shRNA was mitigated, compared to rats subjected with AAVolig001-scramble. Selective in vivo Schwann cell transduction and functional block of Piezo1 channel activity of primary cultured Schwann cells was confirmed. Together, our data demonstrate that 1) AAVolig001 has unique and selective primary tropism to Schwann cells via intrasciatic delivery and 2) Schwann cell Piezo1 contributes to mechanical hypersensitivity following nerve injury.
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Pipis M, Won S, Poh R, Efthymiou S, Polke JM, Skorupinska M, Blake J, Rossor AM, Moran JJ, Munot P, Muntoni F, Laura M, Svaren J, Reilly MM. Post-transcriptional microRNA repression of PMP22 dose in severe Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1. Brain 2023; 146:4025-4032. [PMID: 37337674 PMCID: PMC10545524 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad203] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Copy number variation (CNV) may lead to pathological traits, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), the commonest inherited peripheral neuropathy, is due to a genomic duplication encompassing the dosage-sensitive PMP22 gene. MicroRNAs act as repressors on post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression and in rodent models of CMT1A, overexpression of one such microRNA (miR-29a) has been shown to reduce the PMP22 transcript and protein level. Here we present genomic and functional evidence, for the first time in a human CNV-associated phenotype, of the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR)-mediated role of microRNA repression on gene expression. The proband of the family presented with an early-onset, severe sensorimotor demyelinating neuropathy and harboured a novel de novo deletion in the PMP22 3'-UTR. The deletion is predicted to include the miR-29a seed binding site and transcript analysis of dermal myelinated nerve fibres using a novel platform, revealed a marked increase in PMP22 transcript levels. Functional evidence from Schwann cell lines harbouring the wild-type and mutant 3'-UTR showed significantly increased reporter assay activity in the latter, which was not ameliorated by overexpression of a miR-29a mimic. This shows the importance of miR-29a in regulating PMP22 expression and opens an avenue for therapeutic drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menelaos Pipis
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Seongsik Won
- Waisman Center and Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Roy Poh
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Stephanie Efthymiou
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - James M Polke
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Mariola Skorupinska
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Julian Blake
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich NR4 7UY, UK
| | - Alexander M Rossor
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - John J Moran
- Waisman Center and Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Pinki Munot
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Matilde Laura
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - John Svaren
- Waisman Center and Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Mary M Reilly
- Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
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Shen Z, Li M, He F, Huang C, Zheng Y, Wang Z, Ma S, Chen L, Liu Z, Zheng H, Xiong F. Intravenous Administration of an AAV9 Vector Ubiquitously Expressing C1orf194 Gene Improved CMT-Like Neuropathy in C1orf194 -/- Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:1835-1846. [PMID: 37843769 PMCID: PMC10684460 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01429-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, also known as hereditary motor sensory neuropathy, is a group of rare genetically heterogenous diseases characterized by progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, along with sensory deficits. Despite extensive pre-clinical and clinical research, no FDA-approved therapy is available for any CMT type. We previously identified C1ORF194, a novel causative gene for CMT, and found that both C1orf194 knock-in (I121N) and knockout mice developed clinical phenotypes similar to those in patients with CMT. Encouraging results of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy have stimulated the use of AAVs as vehicles for CMT gene therapy. Here, we present a gene therapy approach to restore C1orf194 expression in a knockout background. We used C1orf194-/- mice treated with AAV serotype 9 (AAV9) vector carrying a codon-optimized WT human C1ORF194 cDNA whose expression was driven by a ubiquitously expressed chicken β-actin promoter with a CMV enhancer. Our preclinical evaluation demonstrated the efficacy of AAV-mediated gene therapy in improving sensory and motor abilities, thus achieving largely normal gross motor performance and minimal signs of neuropathy, on the basis of neurophysiological and histopathological evaluation in C1orf194-/- mice administered AAV gene therapy. Our findings advance the techniques for delivering therapeutic interventions to individuals with CMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongrui Shen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meiyi Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei He
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingchun Zheng
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhikui Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shunfei Ma
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengshan Liu
- Division of Translational Neuroscience in Schizophrenia, Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Fu Xiong
- Department of Medical Genetics, Experimental Education/Administration Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Single Cell Technology and Application, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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11
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Nair MA, Niu Z, Madigan NN, Shin AY, Brault JS, Staff NP, Klein CJ. Clinical trials in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorders: a retrospective and preclinical assessment. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1251885. [PMID: 37808507 PMCID: PMC10556688 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1251885] [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: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the progression of clinical and preclinical trials in Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disorders. Background CMT has historically been managed symptomatically and with genetic counseling. The evolution of molecular and pathologic understanding holds a therapeutic promise in gene-targeted therapies. Methods ClinicalTrials.gov from December 1999 to June 2022 was data extracted for CMT with preclinical animal gene therapy trials also reviewed by PubMed search. Results The number of active trials was 1 in 1999 and 286 in 2022. Academic settings accounted for 91% and pharmaceutical companies 9%. Of the pharmaceutical and academic trials, 38% and 28%, respectively, were controlled, randomized, and double-blinded. Thirty-two countries participated: the United States accounted for 26% (75/286). In total, 86% of the trials were classified as therapeutic: 50% procedural (21% wrist/elbow surgery; 22% shock wave and hydrodissection therapy), 23% investigational drugs, 15% devices, and 11% physical therapy. Sixty-seven therapeutic trials (49%) were designated phases 1-2 and 51% phases 3-4. The remaining 14% represent non-therapeutic trials: diagnostic testing (3%), functional outcomes (4%), natural history (4%), and standard of care (3%). One-hundred and three (36%) resulted in publications. Phase I human pharmaceutical trials are focusing on the safety of small molecule therapies (n = 8) and AAV and non-viral gene therapy (n = 3). Preclinical animal gene therapy studies include 11 different CMT forms including viral, CRISPR-Cas9, and nanoparticle delivery. Conclusion Current CMT trials are exploring procedural and molecular therapeutic options with substantial participation of the pharmaceutical industry worldwide. Emerging drug therapies directed at molecular pathogenesis are being advanced in human clinical trials; however, the majority remain within animal investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malavika A. Nair
- Department of Graduate Education, Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Zhiyv Niu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Alexander Y. Shin
- Division of Hand Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Jeffrey S. Brault
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Christopher J. Klein
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Neurology, Rochester, MN, United States
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12
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Mutschler C, Fazal SV, Schumacher N, Loreto A, Coleman MP, Arthur-Farraj P. Schwann cells are axo-protective after injury irrespective of myelination status in mouse Schwann cell-neuron cocultures. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261557. [PMID: 37642648 PMCID: PMC10546878 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelinating Schwann cell (SC)-dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neuron cocultures are an important technique for understanding cell-cell signalling and interactions during peripheral nervous system (PNS) myelination, injury, and regeneration. Although methods using rat SCs and neurons or mouse DRG explants are commonplace, there are no established protocols for compartmentalised myelinating cocultures with dissociated mouse cells. There consequently is a need for a coculture protocol that allows separate genetic manipulation of mouse SCs or neurons, or use of cells from different transgenic animals to complement in vivo mouse experiments. However, inducing myelination of dissociated mouse SCs in culture is challenging. Here, we describe a new method to coculture dissociated mouse SCs and DRG neurons in microfluidic chambers and induce robust myelination. Cocultures can be axotomised to study injury and used for drug treatments, and cells can be lentivirally transduced for live imaging. We used this model to investigate axon degeneration after traumatic axotomy and find that SCs, irrespective of myelination status, are axo-protective. At later timepoints after injury, live imaging of cocultures shows that SCs break up, ingest and clear axonal debris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Mutschler
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Shaline V. Fazal
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
- Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| | - Nathalie Schumacher
- Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders and Therapies, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Andrea Loreto
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Michael P. Coleman
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Peter Arthur-Farraj
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
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13
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Pisciotta C, Pareyson D. Gene therapy and other novel treatment approaches for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:627-635. [PMID: 37455204 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
There is still no effective drug treatment available for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Current management relies on rehabilitation therapy, surgery for skeletal deformities, and symptomatic treatment. The challenge is to find disease-modifying therapies. Several approaches, including gene silencing (by means of ASO, siRNA, shRNA, miRNA, CRISPR-Cas9 editing), to counteract the PMP22 gene overexpression in the most frequent CMT1A type are under investigation. PXT3003 is the compound in the most advanced phase for CMT1A, as a second phase-III trial is ongoing. Gene therapy to substitute defective genes (particularly in recessive forms associated with loss-of-function mutations) or insert novel ones (e.g., NT3 gene) are being developed and tested in animal models and in still exceptional cases have reached the clinical trial phase in humans. Novel treatment approaches are also aimed at developing compounds acting on pathways important for different CMT types. Modulation of the neuregulin pathway determining myelin thickness is promising for both hypo-demyelinating and hypermyelinating neuropathies; intervention on Unfolded Protein Response seems effective for rescuing misfolded myelin proteins such as MPZ in CMT1B. HDAC6 inhibitors improved axonal transport and ameliorated phenotypes in different CMT models. Other potential therapeutic strategies include targeting macrophages, lipid metabolism, and Nav1.8 sodium channel in demyelinating CMT and the P2×7 receptor, which regulates calcium influx into Schwann cells, in CMT1A. Further approaches are aimed at correcting metabolic abnormalities, including the accumulation of sorbitol caused by biallelic mutations in the sorbitol dehydrogenase (SORD) gene and of neurotoxic glycosphingolipids in HSN1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pisciotta
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurological Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
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14
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Van Lent J, Vendredy L, Adriaenssens E, Da Silva Authier T, Asselbergh B, Kaji M, Weckhuysen S, Van Den Bosch L, Baets J, Timmerman V. Downregulation of PMP22 ameliorates myelin defects in iPSC-derived human organoid cultures of CMT1A. Brain 2023; 146:2885-2896. [PMID: 36511878 PMCID: PMC10316758 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is the most common inherited disorder of the PNS. CMT1A accounts for 40-50% of all cases and is caused by a duplication of the PMP22 gene on chromosome 17, leading to dysmyelination in the PNS. Patient-derived models to study such myelination defects are lacking as the in vitro generation of human myelinating Schwann cells has proved to be particularly challenging. Here, we present an induced pluripotent stem cell-derived organoid culture, containing various cell types of the PNS, including myelinating human Schwann cells, which mimics the human PNS. Single-cell analysis confirmed the PNS-like cellular composition and provides insight into the developmental trajectory. We used this organoid model to study disease signatures of CMT1A, revealing early ultrastructural myelin alterations, including increased myelin periodic line distance and hypermyelination of small axons. Furthermore, we observed the presence of onion-bulb-like formations in a later developmental stage. These hallmarks were not present in the CMT1A-corrected isogenic line or in a CMT2A iPSC line, supporting the notion that these alterations are specific to CMT1A. Downregulation of PMP22 expression using short-hairpin RNAs or a combinatorial drug consisting of baclofen, naltrexone hydrochloride and D-sorbitol was able to ameliorate the myelin defects in CMT1A-organoids. In summary, this self-organizing organoid model can capture biologically meaningful features of the disease and capture the physiological complexity, forms an excellent model for studying demyelinating diseases and supports the therapeutic approach of reducing PMP22 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Van Lent
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Leen Vendredy
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Elias Adriaenssens
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Tatiana Da Silva Authier
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Bob Asselbergh
- Neuromics Support Facility, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Neuromics Support Facility, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Marcus Kaji
- Applied & Translational Neurogenomics Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Sarah Weckhuysen
- Applied & Translational Neurogenomics Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- VIB-Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Baets
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Neuromuscular Reference Centre, Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Vincent Timmerman
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, and Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
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15
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Okamoto Y, Takashima H. The Current State of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1391. [PMID: 37510296 PMCID: PMC10379063 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071391] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and associated neuropathies are the most predominant genetically transmitted neuromuscular conditions; however, effective pharmacological treatments have not established. The extensive genetic heterogeneity of CMT, which impacts the peripheral nerves and causes lifelong disability, presents a significant barrier to the development of comprehensive treatments. An estimated 100 loci within the human genome are linked to various forms of CMT and its related inherited neuropathies. This review delves into prospective therapeutic strategies used for the most frequently encountered CMT variants, namely CMT1A, CMT1B, CMTX1, and CMT2A. Compounds such as PXT3003, which are being clinically and preclinically investigated, and a broad array of therapeutic agents and their corresponding mechanisms are discussed. Furthermore, the progress in established gene therapy techniques, including gene replacement via viral vectors, exon skipping using antisense oligonucleotides, splicing modification, and gene knockdown, are appraised. Each of these gene therapies has the potential for substantial advancements in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Okamoto
- Department of Neurology and Geriatrics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takashima
- Department of Neurology and Geriatrics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890-8544, Japan
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16
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Stavrou M, Kleopa KA. CMT1A current gene therapy approaches and promising biomarkers. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:1434-1440. [PMID: 36571339 PMCID: PMC10075121 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.361538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies (CMT) constitute a group of common but highly heterogeneous, non-syndromic genetic disorders affecting predominantly the peripheral nervous system. CMT type 1A (CMT1A) is the most frequent type and accounts for almost ~50% of all diagnosed CMT cases. CMT1A results from the duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene. Overexpression of PMP22 protein overloads the protein folding apparatus in Schwann cells and activates the unfolded protein response. This leads to Schwann cell apoptosis, dys- and de- myelination and secondary axonal degeneration, ultimately causing neurological disabilities. During the last decades, several different gene therapies have been developed to treat CMT1A. Almost all of them remain at the pre-clinical stage using CMT1A animal models overexpressing PMP22. The therapeutic goal is to achieve gene silencing, directly or indirectly, thereby reversing the CMT1A genetic mechanism allowing the recovery of myelination and prevention of axonal loss. As promising treatments are rapidly emerging, treatment-responsive and clinically relevant biomarkers are becoming necessary. These biomarkers and sensitive clinical evaluation tools will facilitate the design and successful completion of future clinical trials for CMT1A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kleopas A Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics; Center for Neuromuscular Disorders, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
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17
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Saidia AR, Ruel J, Bahloul A, Chaix B, Venail F, Wang J. Current Advances in Gene Therapies of Genetic Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12030738. [PMID: 36769387 PMCID: PMC9918155 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12030738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) refers to a range of hearing impairments characterized by an impaired transmission of sound from the cochlea to the brain. This defect can be due to a lesion or defect in the inner hair cell (IHC), IHC ribbon synapse (e.g., pre-synaptic release of glutamate), postsynaptic terminals of the spiral ganglion neurons, or demyelination and axonal loss within the auditory nerve. To date, the only clinical treatment options for ANSD are hearing aids and cochlear implantation. However, despite the advances in hearing-aid and cochlear-implant technologies, the quality of perceived sound still cannot match that of the normal ear. Recent advanced genetic diagnostics and clinical audiology made it possible to identify the precise site of a lesion and to characterize the specific disease mechanisms of ANSD, thus bringing renewed hope to the treatment or prevention of auditory neurodegeneration. Moreover, genetic routes involving the replacement or corrective editing of mutant sequences or defected genes to repair damaged cells for the future restoration of hearing in deaf people are showing promise. In this review, we provide an update on recent discoveries in the molecular pathophysiology of genetic lesions, auditory synaptopathy and neuropathy, and gene-therapy research towards hearing restoration in rodent models and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anissa Rym Saidia
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Ruel
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, 34295 Montpellier, France
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, UMR 7291, 13331 Marseille, France
| | - Amel Bahloul
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Benjamin Chaix
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Frédéric Venail
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, 34295 Montpellier, France
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier (INM), University Montpellier, INSERM, 34295 Montpellier, France
- Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-499-63-60-48
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18
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Beloribi-Djefaflia S, Attarian S. Treatment of Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2023; 179:35-48. [PMID: 36588067 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) is a heterogeneous group of inherited neuropathies that affect the peripheral nerves and slowly cause progressive disability. Currently, there is no effective therapy. Patients' management is based on rehabilitation and occupational therapy, fatigue, and pain treatment with regular follow-up according to the severity of the disease. In the last three decades, much progress has been made to identify mutations involved in the different types of CMT, decipher the pathophysiology of the disease, and identify key genes and pathways that could be targeted to propose new therapeutic strategies. Genetic therapy is one of the fields of interest to silence genes such as PMP22 in CMT1A or to express GJB1 in CMT1X. Among the most promising molecules, inhibitors of the NRG-1 axis and modulators of UPR or the HDACs enzyme family could be used in different types of CMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Beloribi-Djefaflia
- Reference center for neuromuscular disorders and ALS, AP-HM, CHU La Timone, Marseille, France
| | - S Attarian
- Reference center for neuromuscular disorders and ALS, AP-HM, CHU La Timone, Marseille, France; FILNEMUS, European Reference Network for Rare Diseases (ERN), Marseille, France; Medical Genetics, Aix Marseille Université-Inserm UMR_1251, 13005 Marseille, France.
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19
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Pisciotta C, Shy ME. Hereditary neuropathy. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 195:609-617. [PMID: 37562889 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98818-6.00009-1] [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
The hereditary neuropathies, collectively referred as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and related disorders, are heterogeneous genetic peripheral nerve disorders that collectively comprise the commonest inherited neurological disease with an estimated prevalence of 1:2500 individuals. The field of hereditary neuropathies has made significant progress in recent years with respect to both gene discovery and treatment as a result of next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach. These investigations which have identified over 100 causative genes and new mutations have made the classification of CMT even more challenging. Despite so many different mutated genes, the majority of CMT forms share a similar clinical phenotype, and due to this phenotypic homogeneity, genetic testing in CMT is increasingly being performed through the use of NGS panels. The majority of patients still have a mutation in one the four most common genes (PMP22 duplication-CMT1A, MPZ-CMT1B, GJB1-CMTX1, and MFN2-CMT2A). This chapter focuses primarily on these four forms and their potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pisciotta
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
| | - Michael E Shy
- Department of Neurology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, United States
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20
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Ding Y, Zhang Y, Liu X. Combinational treatments of RNA interference and extracellular vesicles in the spinocerebellar ataxia. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1043947. [PMID: 36311034 PMCID: PMC9606576 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1043947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease (ND) with a high mortality rate. Symptomatic treatment is the only clinically adopted treatment. However, it has poor effect and serious complications. Traditional diagnostic methods [such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] have drawbacks. Presently, the superiority of RNA interference (RNAi) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) in improving SCA has attracted extensive attention. Both can serve as the potential biomarkers for the diagnosing and monitoring disease progression. Herein, we analyzed the basis and prospect of therapies for SCA. Meanwhile, we elaborated the development and application of miRNAs, siRNAs, shRNAs, and EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of SCA. We propose the combination of RNAi and EVs to avoid the adverse factors of their respective treatment and maximize the benefits of treatment through the technology of EVs loaded with RNA. Obviously, the combinational therapy of RNAi and EVs may more accurately diagnose and cure SCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Ding
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuehong Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical College, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- *Correspondence: Xuehong Liu,
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21
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Kramarz C, Rossor AM. Neurological update: hereditary neuropathies. J Neurol 2022; 269:5187-5191. [PMID: 35596796 PMCID: PMC9363318 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11164-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this update, we review the recent discovery of autosomal recessive variants in sorbitol dehydrogenase as one of the commonest and potentially treatable causes of hereditary motor neuropathy and CMT2. We also report on recent therapeutic advances in hereditary neuropathy including the use of lipid nanoparticle sequestered antisense oligonucleotides in CMT1A and lipid nanoparticle delivered CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in ATTR amyloidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kramarz
- Department of Neuromuscular Disease, Queen Square UCL Institute of Neurology and the National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Alexander M Rossor
- Department of Neuromuscular Disease, Queen Square UCL Institute of Neurology and the National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
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22
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Stavrou M, Kagiava A, Choudury SG, Jennings MJ, Wallace LM, Fowler AM, Heslegrave A, Richter J, Tryfonos C, Christodoulou C, Zetterberg H, Horvath R, Harper SQ, Kleopa KA. A translatable RNAi-driven gene therapy silences PMP22/Pmp22 genes and improves neuropathy in CMT1A mice. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:159814. [PMID: 35579942 PMCID: PMC9246392 DOI: 10.1172/jci159814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), the most common inherited demyelinating peripheral neuropathy, is caused by PMP22 gene duplication. Overexpression of WT PMP22 in Schwann cells destabilizes the myelin sheath, leading to demyelination and ultimately to secondary axonal loss and disability. No treatments currently exist that modify the disease course. The most direct route to CMT1A therapy will involve reducing PMP22 to normal levels. To accomplish this, we developed a gene therapy strategy to reduce PMP22 using artificial miRNAs targeting human PMP22 and mouse Pmp22 mRNAs. Our lead therapeutic miRNA, miR871, was packaged into an adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) vector and delivered by lumbar intrathecal injection into C61-het mice, a model of CMT1A. AAV9-miR871 efficiently transduced Schwann cells in C61-het peripheral nerves and reduced human and mouse PMP22 mRNA and protein levels. Treatment at early and late stages of the disease significantly improved multiple functional outcome measures and nerve conduction velocities. Furthermore, myelin pathology in lumbar roots and femoral motor nerves was ameliorated. The treated mice also showed reductions in circulating biomarkers of CMT1A. Taken together, our data demonstrate that AAV9-miR871–driven silencing of PMP22 rescues a CMT1A model and provides proof of principle for treating CMT1A using a translatable gene therapy approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alexia Kagiava
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Sarah G Choudury
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, United States of America
| | - Matthew J Jennings
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsay M Wallace
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, United States of America
| | - Allison M Fowler
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, United States of America
| | - Amanda Heslegrave
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Richter
- Department of Molecular Virology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Christina Tryfonos
- Department of Molecular Virology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Christina Christodoulou
- Department of Molecular Virology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Göteborgs University, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Rita Horvath
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Scott Q Harper
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, United States of America
| | - Kleopas A Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
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23
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Bai Y, Treins C, Volpi VG, Scapin C, Ferri C, Mastrangelo R, Touvier T, Florio F, Bianchi F, Del Carro U, Baas FF, Wang D, Miniou P, Guedat P, Shy ME, D'Antonio M. Treatment with IFB-088 Improves Neuropathy in CMT1A and CMT1B Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:4159-4178. [PMID: 35501630 PMCID: PMC9167212 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02838-y] [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: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), caused by duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene, and CMT1B, caused by mutations in myelin protein zero (MPZ) gene, are the two most common forms of demyelinating CMT (CMT1), and no treatments are available for either. Prior studies of the MpzSer63del mouse model of CMT1B have demonstrated that protein misfolding, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) contributed to the neuropathy. Heterozygous patients with an arginine to cysteine mutation in MPZ (MPZR98C) develop a severe infantile form of CMT1B which is modelled by MpzR98C/ + mice that also show ER stress and an activated UPR. C3-PMP22 mice are considered to effectively model CMT1A. Altered proteostasis, ER stress and activation of the UPR have been demonstrated in mice carrying Pmp22 mutations. To determine whether enabling the ER stress/UPR and readjusting protein homeostasis would effectively treat these models of CMT1B and CMT1A, we administered Sephin1/IFB-088/icerguestat, a UPR modulator which showed efficacy in the MpzS63del model of CMT1B, to heterozygous MpzR98C and C3-PMP22 mice. Mice were analysed by behavioural, neurophysiological, morphological and biochemical measures. Both MpzR98C/ + and C3-PMP22 mice improved in motor function and neurophysiology. Myelination, as demonstrated by g-ratios and myelin thickness, improved in CMT1B and CMT1A mice and markers of UPR activation returned towards wild-type values. Taken together, our results demonstrate the capability of IFB-088 to treat a second mouse model of CMT1B and a mouse model of CMT1A, the most common form of CMT. Given the recent benefits of IFB-088 treatment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis animal models, these data demonstrate its potential in managing UPR and ER stress for multiple mutations in CMT1 as well as in other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhong Bai
- Department of Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | | | - Vera G Volpi
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Scapin
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia Ferri
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosa Mastrangelo
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Thierry Touvier
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Florio
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Bianchi
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Ubaldo Del Carro
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Frank F Baas
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - David Wang
- Department of Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | | | | | - Michael E Shy
- Department of Neurology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Maurizio D'Antonio
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute DIBIT, 20132, Milan, Italy.
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24
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Caillaud M, Gobeaux F, Hémadi M, Boutary S, Guenoun P, Desmaële D, Couvreur P, Wien F, Testard F, Massaad-Massade L. Supramolecular organization and biological interaction of squalenoyl siRNA nanoparticles. Int J Pharm 2021; 609:121117. [PMID: 34562556 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Small interfering RNAs (siRNA) are attractive and powerful tools to inhibit the expression of a targeted gene. However, their extreme hydrophilicities combined with a negative charge and short plasma half-life counteract their use as therapeutics. Previously, we chemically linked siRNA to squalene (SQ) which self-assembled as nanoparticles (NPs) with pharmacological efficiency in cancers and recently in a hereditary neuropathy. In order to understand the siRNA-SQ NP assembly and fate once intravenously injected, the present study detailed characterization of siRNA-SQ NP structure and its interaction with serum components. From SAXS and SANS analysis, we propose that the siRNA-SQ bioconjugate self-assembled as 11-nm diameter supramolecular assemblies, which are connected one to another to form spherical nanoparticles of around 130-nm diameter. The siRNA-SQ NPs were stable in biological media and interacted with serum components, notably with albumin and LDL. The high specificity of siRNA to decrease or normalize gene expression and the high colloidal stability when encapsulated into squalene nanoparticles offer promising targeted therapy with wide applications for pathologies with gene expression dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Caillaud
- U1195 Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System, INSERM U1195 and University Paris-Saclay, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Frédéric Gobeaux
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, NIMBE, LIONS, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Miryana Hémadi
- Université de Paris, CNRS-UMR 7086, Interfaces, Traitements, Organisation et DYnamique des Systèmes (ITODYS), UFR de Chimie, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Suzan Boutary
- U1195 Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System, INSERM U1195 and University Paris-Saclay, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Patrick Guenoun
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, NIMBE, LIONS, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Didier Desmaële
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 8612, Université Paris-Saclay, 92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Patrick Couvreur
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 8612, Université Paris-Saclay, 92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | | | - Fabienne Testard
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, NIMBE, LIONS, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Liliane Massaad-Massade
- U1195 Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System, INSERM U1195 and University Paris-Saclay, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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25
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Pisciotta C, Saveri P, Pareyson D. Challenges in Treating Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease and Related Neuropathies: Current Management and Future Perspectives. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1447. [PMID: 34827446 PMCID: PMC8615778 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is still no effective drug treatment available for Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies (CMT). Current management relies on rehabilitation therapy, surgery for skeletal deformities, and symptomatic treatment of pain; fatigue and cramps are frequent complaints that are difficult to treat. The challenge is to find disease-modifying therapies. Several approaches, including gene silencing, to counteract the PMP22 gene overexpression in the most frequent CMT1A type are under investigation. PXT3003 is the compound in the most advanced phase for CMT1A, as a second-phase III trial is ongoing. Gene therapy to substitute defective genes or insert novel ones and compounds acting on pathways important for different CMT types are being developed and tested in animal models. Modulation of the Neuregulin pathway determining myelin thickness is promising for both hypo-demyelinating and hypermyelinating neuropathies; intervention on Unfolded Protein Response seems effective for rescuing misfolded myelin proteins such as P0 in CMT1B. HDAC6 inhibitors improved axonal transport and ameliorated phenotypes in different CMT models. Other potential therapeutic strategies include targeting macrophages, lipid metabolism, and Nav1.8 sodium channel in demyelinating CMT and the P2X7 receptor, which regulates calcium influx into Schwann cells, in CMT1A. Further approaches are aimed at correcting metabolic abnormalities, including the accumulation of sorbitol caused by biallelic mutations in the sorbitol dehydrogenase (SORD) gene and of neurotoxic glycosphingolipids in HSN1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Davide Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (P.S.)
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26
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Abstract
Demyelinating forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) are genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous and result from highly diverse biological mechanisms including gain of function (including dominant negative effects) and loss of function. While no definitive treatment is currently available, rapid advances in defining the pathomechanisms of demyelinating CMT have led to promising pre-clinical studies, as well as emerging clinical trials. Especially promising are the recently completed pre-clinical genetic therapy studies in PMP-22, GJB1, and SH3TC2-associated neuropathies, particularly given the success of similar approaches in humans with spinal muscular atrophy and transthyretin familial polyneuropathy. This article focuses on neuropathies related to mutations in PMP-22, MPZ, and GJB1, which together comprise the most common forms of demyelinating CMT, as well as on select rarer forms for which promising treatment targets have been identified. Clinical characteristics and pathomechanisms are reviewed in detail, with emphasis on therapeutically targetable biological pathways. Also discussed are the challenges facing the CMT research community in its efforts to advance the rapidly evolving biological insights to effective clinical trials. These considerations include the limitations of currently available animal models, the need for personalized medicine approaches/allele-specific interventions for select forms of demyelinating CMT, and the increasing demand for optimal clinical outcome assessments and objective biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Fridman
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 E 17th Avenue, Mailstop B185, Room 5113C, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Mario A Saporta
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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27
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Animal Models as a Tool to Design Therapeutical Strategies for CMT-like Hereditary Neuropathies. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11091237. [PMID: 34573256 PMCID: PMC8465478 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11091237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since ancient times, animal models have provided fundamental information in medical knowledge. This also applies for discoveries in the field of inherited peripheral neuropathies (IPNs), where they have been instrumental for our understanding of nerve development, pathogenesis of neuropathy, molecules and pathways involved and to design potential therapies. In this review, we briefly describe how animal models have been used in ancient medicine until the use of rodents as the prevalent model in present times. We then travel along different examples of how rodents have been used to improve our understanding of IPNs. We do not intend to describe all discoveries and animal models developed for IPNs, but just to touch on a few arbitrary and paradigmatic examples, taken from our direct experience or from literature. The idea is to show how strategies have been developed to finally arrive to possible treatments for IPNs.
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28
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Pisciotta C, Saveri P, Pareyson D. Updated review of therapeutic strategies for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and related neuropathies. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:701-713. [PMID: 34033725 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1935242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and related neuropathies represent the most prevalent inherited neuromuscular disorders. Nonetheless, there is still no pharmacological treatment available for any CMT type. However, the landscape is rapidly evolving and several novel approaches are providing encouraging results in preclinical studies and leading to clinical trials.Areas covered: The authors review the most promising therapies under study and the ongoing/planned clinical trials. Several approaches to address PMP22 overexpression underlying CMT1A, the most frequent subtype, are being tested. Gene silencing, targeting PMP22, and gene therapy, to introduce specific genes or to substitute or modulate defective ones, are being experimented in animal models. Compounds acting on ER stress, unfolded protein response, neuregulin pathways, phosphoinositides metabolism, axonal transport and degeneration, inflammation, polyol pathway, deoxysphingolipid metabolism, purine nucleotide pool are potential therapeutic candidates for different forms of CMT and related neuropathies.Expert opinion: We are getting closer to find effective therapies for CMT, but are far behind the exciting examples of other genetic neuromuscular disorders. The authors analyze the possible reasons for this gap and the way to fill it. Preclinical and clinical research is ongoing with coordinated efforts and they are confident that in the next few years we will see the first effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pisciotta
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Saveri
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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29
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Stavrou M, Sargiannidou I, Georgiou E, Kagiava A, Kleopa KA. Emerging Therapies for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Inherited Neuropathies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6048. [PMID: 34205075 PMCID: PMC8199910 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited neuropathies known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease are genetically heterogeneous disorders affecting the peripheral nerves, causing significant and slowly progressive disability over the lifespan. The discovery of their diverse molecular genetic mechanisms over the past three decades has provided the basis for developing a wide range of therapeutics, leading to an exciting era of finding treatments for this, until now, incurable group of diseases. Many treatment approaches, including gene silencing and gene replacement therapies, as well as small molecule treatments are currently in preclinical testing while several have also reached clinical trial stage. Some of the treatment approaches are disease-specific targeted to the unique disease mechanism of each CMT form, while other therapeutics target common pathways shared by several or all CMT types. As promising treatments reach the stage of clinical translation, optimal outcome measures, novel biomarkers and appropriate trial designs are crucial in order to facilitate successful testing and validation of novel treatments for CMT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Stavrou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Irene Sargiannidou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Elena Georgiou
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Alexia Kagiava
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Kleopas A. Kleopa
- Neuroscience Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (M.S.); (I.S.); (E.G.); (A.K.)
- Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
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30
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Abstract
This « Magnum Opus » emphasizes that serendipity is a corner stone in research. The paths of discovery and innovation often result from the interdisciplinarity of scientific areas that are a priori disconnected from each other. In the 1970s, fundamental discoveries in cell biology led to unexpected advances in galenic pharmacy with the emergence of nanotechnologies for the intracellular delivery of non diffusing molecules. As well, fluorescein-loaded polyacrylamide nanocapsules were shown to deliver this fluorescent agent precisely into cellular lysosomes which represented a seminal observation. However, due to the lack of biodegradability of this carrier polymer, this approach was still far from therapeutic application. The use of cyanoacrylates as surgical glue inspired us to use this material in the design of the first biodegradable nanoparticles for human use. Capable of transporting compounds with anti-tumor activity, these polyalkylcyanoacrylate nanoparticles demonstrated the unexpected property of overcoming multi-drug resistance. This discovery led to the development of a nanomedicine that has completed phase III clinical trials for the treatment of resistant hepatocarcinoma. Going beyond the state-of-the art, a step ahead in the nanomedicine field was the drug « squalenoylation » technology, which represents a shift from the « physical » to the « chemical » encapsulation paradigm. The bioconjugation of anticancer and other drugs to squalene, a natural and biocompatible lipid, enabled a dramatic increase in drug payload, and eliminated the so-called « burst release » of drug: Two major drawbacks commonly associated with drug nanoencapsulation. The drug « squalenoylation » approach resulted in a generic nanomedicine platform with broad pharmacological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Couvreur
- Institut Galien Paris-Sud, UMR 8612, CNRS, Univ Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Pharmacie, 5 rue Jean-Baptiste Clément, F-92296 Châtenay-Malabry, Cedex, France..
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