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Peng X, Chi Y, Wang J, Li S, Liu Y, Tang C, Zhou X, Lu X, Gao Y, Lai L, Chen M, Zou Q. Improvement of TaC9-ABE mediated correction of human SMN2 gene. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024. [PMID: 38923503 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a devastating neuromuscular disease caused by mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. Gene editing technology repairs the conversion of the 6th base T to C in exon 7 of the paralogous SMN2 gene, compensating for the SMN protein expression and promoting the survival and function of motor neurons. However, low editing efficiency and unintended off-target effects limit the application of this technology. Here, we optimized a TaC9-adenine base editor (ABE) system by combining Cas9 nickase with the transcription activator-like effector (TALE)-adenosine deaminase fusion protein to effectively and precisely edit SMN2 without detectable Cas9 dependent off-target effects in human cell lines. We also generated human SMA-induced pluripotent stem cells (SMA-iPSCs) through the mutation of the splice acceptor or deletion of the exon 7 of SMN1. TaC9-R10 induced 45% SMN2 T6 > C conversion in the SMA-iPSCs. The SMN2 T6 > C splice-corrected SMA-iPSCs were directionally differentiated into motor neurons, exhibiting SMN protein recovery and antiapoptosis ability. Therefore, the TaC9-ABE system with dual guides from the combination of Cas9 with TALE could be a potential therapeutic strategy for SMA with high efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Yue Chi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Jinling Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Shuangpeng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | | | - Chengcheng Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Xuan Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Liangxue Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Qingjian Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, South China Institute of Large Animal Models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, China
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Bai J, Qu Y, Huang W, Meng W, Zhan J, Wang H, Hou W, Jin Y, Mao A, Song F. A high-fidelity long-read sequencing-based approach enables accurate and effective genetic diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 553:117743. [PMID: 38158006 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to develop a high-fidelity long-read sequencing (LRS)-based approach to detect SMN gene variants in one step. It is challenging for conventional step-wise methods to simultaneously detect all kinds of variations between homologous SMN1 and SMN2. METHODS In this study, LRS was developed to analyze copy numbers (CNs), full sequences, and structure of SMN1 and SMN2. The results were compared with those from the step-wise methods in 202 samples from 67 families. RESULTS LRS achieved 100% (202/202) and 99.5% (201/202) accuracy for SMN1 and SMN2 CNs, respectively. It corrected SMN1 CNs from MLPA, which was caused by SNVs/indels that located in probe-binding region. LRS identified 23 SNVs/indels distributing throughout SMN1, including c.22dup and c.884A > T in trans-configuration, and a de novo variant c.41_42delinsC for the first time. LRS also identified a SMN2 variant c.346A > G. Moreover, it successfully determined Alu-mediated 8978-bp deletion encompassing exon 2a-5 and 1415-bp deletion disrupting exon 1, and the exact breakpoints of large deletions. Through haplotype-based pedigree trio analysis, LRS identified SMN1 2 + 0 carriers, and determined the distribution of SMN1 and SMN2 on two chromosomes. CONCLUSIONS LRS represents a more comprehensive and accurate diagnosis approach that is beneficial to early treatment and effective management of SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinli Bai
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yujin Qu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Wenchen Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Wanli Meng
- Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Jiahan Zhan
- Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Wenqi Hou
- Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Yuwei Jin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Aiping Mao
- Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China.
| | - Fang Song
- Department of Medical Genetics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China.
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Kubar A, Temel SG, Beken S, Onder G, Hatirnaz O, Korkmaz A, Alanay Y, Ozbek U, Sag SO, Ergoren MC, Kubar E, Sonmezalp CZ, Doğan O. A new line method; A direct test in spinal muscular atrophy screening for DBS. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2023; 11:e2270. [PMID: 37614112 PMCID: PMC10724511 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2270] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleic acid-based assays provide an opportunity to screen for genetically encoded diseases like spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), before the onset of symptoms. Nowadays, such assays could be easily utilized as high-throughputs in SMA to detect a homozygous deletion of exon 7 of the survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1) that is responsible for >95% of SMA patients. METHODS We developed a new line method (NLM) as a direct real time PCR test procedure without nucleic acid extraction in dried blood spots (DBS) to screen for homozygous deletion of exon 7 of the SMN1 gene. Performance of this setup was evaluated on 580 DBS newborn samples and air dried 50 DBS from whole blood including 20 samples for homozygous deletion of the SMN1 gene detected earlier with MLPA. RESULTS We found all 580 newborn DBS samples as wild type. DBS prepared from 50 whole blood samples also including 20 affected people were correctly identified as homozygous deletions and 30 wild types of exon 7 of SMN1 as before with MLPA. When the MLPA method was taken as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the NLM test were found 100% for the detection of SMN1 exon 7 homozygous deletion. CONCLUSION In the NLM, the total test duration has been reduced to less than 75 min without requiring any extra process such as DNA extraction step and sample plate preparation after the punching step. Thereby, newborn SMA screening with the NLM has gained an environmentally friendly feature with not requiring additional tedious steps.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sehime Gülsüm Temel
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of MedicineBursa Uludag UniversityBursaTurkey
- Department of Translational Medicine, Institute of Health SciencesBursa Uludag UniversityBursaTurkey
| | - Serdar Beken
- Department of Pediatrics, School of MedicineAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Gizem Onder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of of Health SciencesAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Ozden Hatirnaz
- Department of Basic Sciences, Medical Biology, School of MedicineAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Ayse Korkmaz
- Department of Pediatrics, School of MedicineAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Yasemin Alanay
- Department of Pediatrics, School of MedicineAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Ugur Ozbek
- Department of Medical Sciences, Medical Genetics, School of MedicineAcibadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Sebnem Ozemri Sag
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of MedicineBursa Uludag UniversityBursaTurkey
| | | | - Elif Kubar
- Ege University Faculty of MedicineDepartment of Medical GeneticsIzmirTurkey
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Angilletta I, Ferrante R, Giansante R, Lombardi L, Babore A, Dell’Elice A, Alessandrelli E, Notarangelo S, Ranaudo M, Palmarini C, De Laurenzi V, Stuppia L, Rossi C. Spinal Muscular Atrophy: An Evolving Scenario through New Perspectives in Diagnosis and Advances in Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14873. [PMID: 37834320 PMCID: PMC10573646 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914873] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) linked to 5q is a recessive motor neuron disease characterized by progressive and diffuse weakness and muscular atrophy. SMA is the most common neurodegenerative disease in childhood with an incidence of approximately 1 in 6000-10,000 live births, being long considered a leading cause of hereditary mortality in infancy, worldwide. The classification of SMA is based on the natural history of the disease, with a wide clinical spectrum of onset and severity. We are currently in a new therapeutic era, that, thanks to the widespread use of the newly approved disease-modifying therapies and the possibility of an early administration, should lead to a deep change in the clinical scenario and, thus, in the history of SMA. With the aim to achieve a new view of SMA, in this review we consider different aspects of this neuromuscular disease: the historical perspective, the clinical features, the diagnostic process, the psychological outcome, innovation in treatments and therapies, the possibility of an early identification of affected infants in the pre-symptomatic phase through newborn screening programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Angilletta
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Rossella Ferrante
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Roberta Giansante
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Lucia Lombardi
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandra Babore
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territory Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Anastasia Dell’Elice
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Elisa Alessandrelli
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Stefania Notarangelo
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Marianna Ranaudo
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Claudia Palmarini
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
| | - Vincenzo De Laurenzi
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territory Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Claudia Rossi
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (I.A.); (R.F.); (R.G.); (L.L.); (A.D.); (E.A.); (S.N.); (M.R.); (C.P.); (V.D.L.); (L.S.)
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Nakevska Z, Yokota T. Challenges and future perspective of antisense therapy for spinal muscular atrophy: A review. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151326. [PMID: 37295266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the most common genetic cause of infantile death, is caused by a mutation in the survival of motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1), leading to the death of motor neurons and progressive muscle weakness. SMN1 normally produces an essential protein called SMN. Although humans possess a paralogous gene called SMN2, ∼90% of the SMN it produces is non-functional. This is due to a mutation in SMN2 that causes the skipping of a required exon during splicing of the pre-mRNA. The first treatment for SMA, nusinersen (brand name Spinraza), was approved by the FDA in 2016 and by the EMU in 2017. Nusinersen is an antisense oligonucleotide-based therapy that alters the splicing of SMN2 to make functional full-length SMN protein. Despite the recent advancements in antisense oligonucleotide therapy and SMA treatment development, nusinersen is faced with a multitude of challenges, such as intracellular and systemic delivery. In recent years, the use of peptide-conjugated phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PPMOs) in antisense therapy has gained interest. These are antisense oligonucleotides conjugated to cell-penetrating peptides such as Pips and DG9, and they have the potential to address the challenges associated with delivery. This review focuses on the historic milestones, development, current challenges, and future perspectives of antisense therapy for SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorica Nakevska
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Alberta, 116 St. and 85 Ave., Edmonton AB T6G 2E1, Canada.
| | - Toshifumi Yokota
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 116 St. and 85 Ave., Edmonton AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 116 St. and 85 Ave., Edmonton AB T6G 2E1, Canada; The Friends of Garret Cumming Research and Muscular Dystrophy Canada HM Toupin Neurological Science Research Chair, 8812 112 St., Edmonton AB T6G 2H7, Canada.
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Nucleic acid therapy in pediatric cancer. Pharmacol Res 2022; 184:106441. [PMID: 36096420 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The overall survival, progress free survival, and life quality of cancer patients have improved due to the advance in minimally invasive surgery, precision radiotherapy, and various combined chemotherapy in the last decade. Furthermore, the discovery of new types of therapeutics, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and immune cell therapies have facilitated both patients and doctors to fight with cancers. Moreover, in the context of the development in biocompatible and cell type targeting nano-carriers as well as nucleic acid-based drugs for initiating and enhancing the anti-tumor response have come to the age. The treatment paradigms utilization of nucleic acids, including short interfering RNA (siRNA), antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), and messenger RNA (mRNA), can target specific protein expression to achieve the therapeutic effects. Over ten nucleic acid therapeutics have been approved by the FDA and EMA in rare diseases and genetic diseases as well as dozens of registered clinical trails for varies cancers. Though generally less dangerous of pediatric cancers than adult cancers was observed during the past decades, yet pediatric cancers accounted for a significant proportion of child deaths which hurt those family very deeply. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention for improving the treatment of pediatric cancer and discovering new nucleic acid therapeutics which may help to improve the therapeutic effect and prognoses in turns to ameliorate the survival period and quality of life for children patient. In this review, we focus on the nucleic acid therapy in pediatric cancers.
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Shih STF, Keller E, Wiley V, Wong M, Farrar MA, Chambers GM. Economic Evaluation of Newborn Screening for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency. Int J Neonatal Screen 2022; 8:ijns8030044. [PMID: 35892474 PMCID: PMC9326549 DOI: 10.3390/ijns8030044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence on the cost-effectiveness of newborn screening (NBS) for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) in the Australian policy context is lacking. In this study, a pilot population-based screening program in Australia was used to model the cost-effectiveness of NBS for SCID from the government perspective. Markov cohort simulations were nested within a decision analytic model to compare the costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) over a time horizon of 5 and 60 years for two strategies: (1) NBS for SCID and treat with early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT); (2) no NBS for SCID and treat with late HSCT. Incremental costs were compared to incremental QALYs to calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER). Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the model uncertainty and identify key parameters impacting on the ICER. In the long-term over 60 years, universal NBS for SCID would gain 10 QALYs at a cost of US $0.3 million, resulting in an ICER of US$33,600/QALY. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that more than half of the simulated ICERs were considered cost-effective against the common willingness-to-pay threshold of A$50,000/QALY (US$35,000/QALY). In the Australian context, screening for SCID should be introduced into the current NBS program from both clinical and economic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophy T. F. Shih
- Surveillance, Evaluation and Research Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Elena Keller
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centre for Big Data Research in Health and School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (E.K.); (G.M.C.)
| | - Veronica Wiley
- NSW Newborn Screening Programme, Children’s Hospital Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Melanie Wong
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;
| | - Michelle A. Farrar
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia;
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Georgina M. Chambers
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centre for Big Data Research in Health and School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (E.K.); (G.M.C.)
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Onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic infants with two copies of SMN2 at risk for spinal muscular atrophy type 1: the Phase III SPR1NT trial. Nat Med 2022; 28:1381-1389. [PMID: 35715566 PMCID: PMC9205281 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-022-01866-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
SPR1NT ( NCT03505099 ) was a Phase III, multicenter, single-arm study to investigate the efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec for presymptomatic children with biallelic SMN1 mutations treated at ≤6 weeks of life. Here, we report final results for 14 children with two copies of SMN2, expected to develop spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1. Efficacy was compared with a matched Pediatric Neuromuscular Clinical Research natural-history cohort (n = 23). All 14 enrolled infants sat independently for ≥30 seconds at any visit ≤18 months (Bayley-III item #26; P < 0.001; 11 within the normal developmental window). All survived without permanent ventilation at 14 months as per protocol; 13 maintained body weight (≥3rd WHO percentile) through 18 months. No child used nutritional or respiratory support. No serious adverse events were considered related to treatment by the investigator. Onasemnogene abeparvovec was effective and well-tolerated for children expected to develop SMA type 1, highlighting the urgency for universal newborn screening.
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Edinoff AN, Nguyen LH, Odisho AS, Maxey BS, Pruitt JW, Girma B, Cornett EM, Kaye AM, Kaye AD. The Antisense Oligonucleotide Nusinersen for Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Orthop Rev (Pavia) 2021; 13:24934. [PMID: 34745470 DOI: 10.52965/001c.24934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare, autosomal recessive neuromuscular degenerative disease characterized by loss of spinal cord motor neurons leading to progressive muscle wasting. The most common pathology results from a homozygous disruption in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene on chromosome 5q13 via deletion, conversion, or mutation. SMN2 is a near duplicate of SMN1 that can produce full-length SMN mRNA transcripts, but its overall production capability of these mRNA transcripts is lower than that seen in SMN1. This leads to lower levels of functional SMN protein within motor neurons. The FDA approved nusinersen in December 2016 to treat SMA associated with SMN1 gene mutation. It is administered directly to the central nervous system by intrathecal injection. An antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drug, nusinersen, provides an upcoming and promising treatment option for SMA and represents a novel pharmacological approach with a mechanism of action relevant for other neurodegenerative disorders. Nusinersen begins with four initial loading doses that are followed by three maintenance doses per year. Three major studies (CHERISH, ENDEAR, and NURTURE) have shown to improve motor function in early and late-onset individuals and reduce the chances of ventilator requirements in pre-symptomatic infants. Studies investigating the timing of drug delivery in mouse models of SMA report the best outcomes when drugs are delivered early before any significant motor function is lost. Nusinersen is a novel therapeutic approach with consistent results in all three studies and is proof of the novel concept for treating SMA and other neurodegenerative disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Long H Nguyen
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | - Amira S Odisho
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | | | - John W Pruitt
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | - Brook Girma
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | | | - Adam M Kaye
- Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
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Klotz J, Tesi Rocha C, Dunaway Young S, Duong T, Buu M, Sampson J, Day JW. Advances in the Therapy of Spinal Muscular Atrophy. J Pediatr 2021; 236:13-20.e1. [PMID: 34197889 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Klotz
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA.
| | | | | | - Tina Duong
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - MyMy Buu
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | - John W Day
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
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11
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Pino MG, Rich KA, Kolb SJ. Update on Biomarkers in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Biomark Insights 2021; 16:11772719211035643. [PMID: 34421296 PMCID: PMC8371741 DOI: 10.1177/11772719211035643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The availability of disease modifying therapies for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has created an urgent need to identify clinically meaningful biomarkers. Biomarkers present a means to measure and evaluate neurological disease across time. Changes in biomarkers provide insight into disease progression and may reveal biologic, physiologic, or pharmacologic phenomena occurring prior to clinical detection. Efforts to identify biomarkers for SMA, a genetic motor neuron disease characterized by motor neuron degeneration and weakness, have culminated in a number of putative molecular and physiologic markers that evaluate biological media (eg, blood and cerebrospinal fluid [CSF]) or nervous system function. Such biomarkers include SMN2 copy number, SMN mRNA and protein levels, neurofilament proteins (NFs), plasma protein analytes, creatine kinase (CK) and creatinine (Crn), and various electrophysiology and imaging measures. SMN2 copy number inversely correlates with disease severity and is the best predictor of clinical outcome in untreated individuals. SMN mRNA and protein are commonly measured in the blood or CSF of patients receiving SMA therapies, particularly those aimed at increasing SMN protein expression, and provide insight into current disease state. NFs have proven to be robust prognostic, disease progression, and pharmacodynamic markers for SMA infants undergoing treatment, but less so for adolescents and adults. Select plasma proteins are altered in SMA individuals and may track response to therapy. CK and Crn from blood correlate with motor function and disease severity status and are useful for predicting which individuals will respond to therapy. Electrophysiology measures comprise the most reliable means for monitoring motor function throughout disease course and are sensitive enough to detect neuromuscular changes before overt clinical manifestation, making them robust predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Finally, magnetic resonance imaging and muscle ultrasonography are non-invasive techniques for studying muscle structure and physiology and are useful diagnostic tools, but cannot reliably track disease progression. Importantly, biomarkers can provide information about the underlying mechanisms of disease as well as reveal subclinical disease progression, allowing for more appropriate timing and dosing of therapy for individuals with SMA. Recent therapeutic advancements in SMA have shown promising results, though there is still a great need to identify and understand the impact of biomarkers in modulating disease onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan G Pino
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State
University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kelly A Rich
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State
University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephen J Kolb
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State
University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry and
Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH,
USA
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12
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Romanelli Tavares VL, Monfardini F, Lourenço NCV, da Rocha KM, Weinmann K, Pavanello R, Zatz M. Newborn Screening for 5q Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Comparisons between Real-Time PCR Methodologies and Cost Estimations for Future Implementation Programs. Int J Neonatal Screen 2021; 7:ijns7030053. [PMID: 34449526 PMCID: PMC8396021 DOI: 10.3390/ijns7030053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the approval of modifying therapies for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), several protocols aiming to screen SMN1 homozygous deletion in a neonatal context have been published. However, no work has compared different methodologies along with detailed implementation costs for centers where the neonatal screening of SMA has not yet been implemented. Therefore, our work compared different qualitative real-time PCR approaches for SMA screening and the estimated costs of test implementation. Using Brazilian blood samples, the presence and absence (P/A) and melt curve protocols were analyzed. MLPA was used as a confirmatory test. The costs were calculated for the simplex and multiplex tests plus equipment. The test workflow was based on the present experience and literature report. The accuracy of the P/A protocol was 1 (95% CI 0.8677-1) using dried blood spots (DBS). The melt curve protocol also achieved 100% concordance. The consumable costs ranged from USD 1.68 to 4.42 and from USD 2.04 to 12.76 per reaction, for the simplex and multiplex tests, respectively. The equipment acquisition costs ranged from USD 44,817.07 to 467,253.10, with several factors influencing this value presented. Our work presents a framework for decision-making, with a project demonstration of the different assays that will be useful in dealing with the issues of cost and availability of reagents. Moreover, we present a literature review and discussion of important concerns regarding treatment policies. We take the first step towards a future SMA NBS pilot program where it is not yet a reality.
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13
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Yung NK, Maassel NL, Ullrich SJ, Ricciardi AS, Stitelman DH. A narrative review of in utero gene therapy: advances, challenges, and future considerations. Transl Pediatr 2021; 10:1486-1496. [PMID: 34189107 PMCID: PMC8192997 DOI: 10.21037/tp-20-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of in utero gene therapy (IUGT) represents a crossroad of technologic advancements and medical ethical boundaries. Several strategies have been developed for IUGT focusing on either modifying endogenous genes, replacing missing genes, or modifying gene transcription products. The list of candidate diseases such as hemoglobinopathies, cystic fibrosis, lysosomal storage disorders continues to grow with new strategies being developed as our understanding of their respective underlying molecular pathogenesis increases. Treatment in utero has several distinct advantages to postnatal treatment. Biologic and physiologic phenomena enable the delivery of a higher effective dose, generation of immune tolerance, and the prevention of phenotypic onset for genetic diseases. Therapeutic technology for IUGT including CRISPR-Cas9 systems, zinc finger nucleases (ZFN), and peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) has already shown promise in animal models and early postnatal clinical trials. While the ability to detect fetal diagnoses has dramatically improved with developments in ultrasound and next-generation sequencing, treatment options remain experimental, with several translational gaps remaining prior to implementation in the clinical realm. Complicating this issue, the potential diseases targeted by this approach are often debilitating and would otherwise prove fatal if not treated in some manner. The leap from small animals to large animals, and subsequently, to humans will require further vigorous testing of safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas K Yung
- Department of General Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nathan L Maassel
- Department of General Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sarah J Ullrich
- Department of General Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adele S Ricciardi
- Department of General Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David H Stitelman
- Department of General Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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14
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A Voluntary Statewide Newborn Screening Pilot for Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Results from Early Check. Int J Neonatal Screen 2021; 7:ijns7010020. [PMID: 33801060 PMCID: PMC8006221 DOI: 10.3390/ijns7010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prior to statewide newborn screening (NBS) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in North Carolina, U.S.A., we offered voluntary screening through the Early Check (EC) research study. Here, we describe the EC experience from October 2018 through December 2020. We enrolled a total of 12,065 newborns and identified one newborn with 0 copies of SMN1 and two copies of SMN2, consistent with severe early onset of SMA. We also detected one false positive result, likely stemming from an unrelated blood disorder associated with a low white blood cell count. We evaluated the timing of NBS for babies enrolled prenatally (n = 932) and postnatally (n = 11,133) and reasons for delays in screening and reporting. Although prenatal enrollment led to faster return of results (median = 13 days after birth), results for babies enrolled postnatally were still available within a timeframe (median = 21 days after birth) that allowed the opportunity to receive essential treatment early in life. We evaluated an SMA q-PCR screening method at two separate time points, confirming the robustness of the assay. The pilot project provided important information about SMA screening in anticipation of forthcoming statewide expansion as part of regular NBS.
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15
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Müller-Felber W, Vill K, Schwartz O, Gläser D, Nennstiel U, Wirth B, Burggraf S, Röschinger W, Becker M, Durner J, Eggermann K, Müller C, Hannibal I, Olgemöller B, Schara U, Blaschek A, Kölbel H. Infants Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and 4 SMN2 Copies through Newborn Screening - Opportunity or Burden? J Neuromuscul Dis 2020; 7:109-117. [PMID: 32144995 PMCID: PMC7175938 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-200475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Although the value of newborn screening (NBS) for early detection and treatment opportunity in SMA patients is generally accepted, there is still an ongoing discussion about the best strategy in children with 4 and more copies of the SMN2 gene. This gene is known to be the most important but not the only disease modifier. In our SMA-NBS pilot project in Germany comprising 278,970 infants screened between January 2018 and November 2019 were 38 positive cases with a homozygous SMN1 deletion. 40% of them had 4 or more SMN2 copies. The incidence for homozygous SMN1 deletion was 1 : 7350, which is within the known range of SMA incidence in Germany. Of the 15 SMA children with 4 SMN2 copies, one child developed physical signs of SMA by the age of 8 months. Reanalysis of the SMN2 copy number by a different test method revealed 3 copies. Two children had affected siblings with SMA Type III, who were diagnosed only after detection of the index patient in the NBS. One had a positive family history with an affected aunt (onset of disease at the age of 3 years). Three families were lost to medical follow up; two because of socioeconomic reasons and one to avoid the psychological stress associated with the appointments. Decisions on how to handle patients with 4 SMN2 copies are discussed in the light of the experience gathered from our NBS pilot SMA program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Müller-Felber
- Dr. v. Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, LMU - University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Vill
- Dr. v. Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, LMU - University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Oliver Schwartz
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Muenster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Dieter Gläser
- Genetikum ®, Center for Human Genetics, Neu-Ulm, Germany
| | - Uta Nennstiel
- Screening Center of the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Brunhilde Wirth
- Institute of Human Genetics, Center for Molecular Genetics Cologne and Center for Rare Diseases Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Jürgen Durner
- Labor Becker und Kollegen, Munich, Germany.,Department of Operative/Restorative Dentistry, Periodontology and Pedodontics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Goethestr. 70, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Katja Eggermann
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christine Müller
- Dr. v. Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, LMU - University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Iris Hannibal
- Dr. v. Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, LMU - University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Ulrike Schara
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, University of Essen, Germany
| | - Astrid Blaschek
- Dr. v. Hauner Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, LMU - University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Heike Kölbel
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, University of Essen, Germany
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16
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Dunaway Young S, Montes J, Salazar R, Glanzman AM, Pasternak A, Mirek E, Martens W, Finkel RS, Darras BT, De Vivo DC. Scoliosis Surgery Significantly Impacts Motor Abilities in Higher-functioning Individuals with Spinal Muscular Atrophy1. J Neuromuscul Dis 2020; 7:183-192. [PMID: 32083590 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-190462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weakness affects motor performance and causes skeletal deformities in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Scoliosis surgery decision-making is based on curve progression, pulmonary function, and skeletal maturity. Benefits include quality of life, sitting balance, and endurance. Post-operative functional decline has not been formally assessed. OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of scoliosis surgery on motor function in SMA types 2 and 3. METHODS Prospective data were acquired during a multicenter natural history study. Seventeen participants (12 type 2, 5 type 3 with 4 of the 5 having lost the ability to ambulate) had motor function assessed using the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) performed pre-operatively and at least 3 months post-operatively. Independent t-tests determined group differences based on post-operative HFMSE changes, age, and baseline HFMSE scores. RESULTS Three participants had minimal HFMSE changes (±2 points) representing stability (mean change = -0.7). Fourteen participants lost >3 points, representing a clinically meaningful progressive change (mean change = -12.1, SD = 8.9). No participant improved >2 points. There were no age differences between stable and progressive groups (p = 0.278), but there were significant differences between baseline HFMSE (p = 0.006) and change scores (p = 0.001). Post-operative changes were permanent over time. CONCLUSIONS Scoliosis surgery has an immediate impact on function. Baseline HFMSE scores anticipate post-operative loss as higher motor function scores were associated with worse decline. Instrumentation that includes fixation to the pelvis reduces flexibility, limiting the ability for compensatory maneuvers. These observations provide information to alert clinicians regarding surgical risk and to counsel families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Dunaway Young
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Montes
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel Salazar
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Allan M Glanzman
- Department of Physical Therapy, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amy Pasternak
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mirek
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Martens
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Richard S Finkel
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Nemours Children's Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Basil T Darras
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Darryl C De Vivo
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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17
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Kamusheva MS, Dimitrova MJ. Clinical and economic assessment of nusinersen: the Bulgarian perspective. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2020.1835641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stefanova Kamusheva
- Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Jordanova Dimitrova
- Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
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18
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González-Irazabal Y, Hernandez de Abajo G, Martínez-Morillo E. Identifying and overcoming barriers to harmonize newborn screening programs through consensus strategies. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2020; 58:29-48. [PMID: 32692303 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2020.1781778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The benefits of newborn screening (NBS) programs have been widely demonstrated after more than 50 years since first established. NBS enables the detection of the disease before the child shows clinical symptoms, allowing clinicians to act early and facilitating appropriate interventions to prevent or improve adverse outcomes. Delay or lack of medical intervention in these infants may lead to developmental delay, severe disability, or premature death. NBS programs have grown exponentially both in the number of diseases screened and in complexity, creating controversy. New technological advances, as well as the emergence of new therapies that require early disease detection, have allowed for the inclusion of new diseases in NBS screening programs. However, different countries and even different regions have in turn adopted very diverse strategies and diagnostic algorithms when it comes to NBS. There are many factors responsible for these differences, such as the health care system, available funds, local politics, professional groups, and others that depend on the position taken by policymakers. These differences in NBS have led to discrepancies in detection opportunities between countries or regions, which has led to many varied attempts to harmonize NBS programs but not all have been equally satisfactory. Some countries have achieved good results, but always within their borders. Therefore, there are still many differences between NBS programs at the international level that must be overcome. These advances have also brought considerable uncertainty regarding ethical aspects and balance between benefits and harms. For this reason, and so that the situation of disparity in the global NBS programs can be minimized, health authorities must work to develop uniform criteria for decision-making and to take a further step toward harmonization. To do so, it is necessary to identify the crucial factors that lead to the adoption of different NBS programs worldwide, in order to analyze their influence and find ways to overcome them.
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19
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Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neuromuscular disease caused by deletions or mutations in the survival motor neuron (SMN1) gene. SMA is characterized by loss of lower motor neurons (anterior horn cells) in the spinal cord and brainstem nuclei, leading to progressive symmetrical muscle weakness and atrophy. It affects approximately 1 in 6,000 to 1 in 10,000 individuals and is the most common inherited cause of childhood mortality, but this may soon change given recent developments. In December 2016, nusinersen, an antisense oligonucleotide drug, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of SMA, and in July 2018, SMA was added to the recommended uniform screening panel, a list of conditions that all states are encouraged to include in their newborn screening (NBS) panels. In this review, we begin with a brief clinical history of the diagnosis of SMA, discuss the current SMA clinical classification system, describe the current treatment, and discuss evolving treatment guidelines. We then discuss the path to include SMA in NBS programs as well as the controversies it engenders because the variability in age at symptom onset means early identification of asymptomatic patients who will not require therapy for years or decades. We also consider alternate population screening opportunities. Next, we consider experimental treatments. We conclude by supporting NBS for SMA with the caveat that a long-term follow-up registry is ethically essential to ensure that the benefits outweigh the harms for all screened infants, including those with milder and/or later-onset forms of SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lainie Friedman Ross
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, Surgery and the College; MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jennifer M Kwon
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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20
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Liu B, Lu Y, Wu B, Yang L, Liu R, Wang H, Dong X, Li G, Qin Q, Zhou W. Survival Motor Neuron Gene Copy Number Analysis by Exome Sequencing: Assisting Spinal Muscular Atrophy Diagnosis and Carrier Screening. J Mol Diagn 2020; 22:619-628. [PMID: 32092542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a leading genetic cause of infant death, influenced by the copy number of two highly homologous genes: SMN1 and SMN2. Although exome sequencing is widely applied for genetic testing, SMA diagnosis and carrier screening have not been incorporated in routine data analysis and lack evaluation in clinical applications. We established a workflow for the SMN gene copy number analysis through uniquely mapped reads on exon 7 of SMN genes and the control region. The workflow was applied retrospectively in the enrolled cohort and validated with multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification. The predictions of this method are completely consistent with a benchmark data set (n = 104). The retrospective analysis in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit cohort detected and confirmed eight SMN1 homozygous deletions and 60 carriers (n = 3734). With experimental confirmation, the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the area under the curve of 100% and 97.8%, respectively, in predicting SMN1 homozygous and heterozygous deletion events, and 99.2% and 96.2%, respectively, in SMN2 deletion and duplication events. The results showed favorable ability in SMN genes copy number status prediction based on real clinical sequencing data. This study provides a precise and portable workflow for SMN genes copy number analysis based on exome sequencing, assisting SMA diagnosing, carrier screening, and disease severity warning in clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulan Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Clinical Genetic Center, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Renchao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Huijun Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinran Dong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Qin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenhao Zhou
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Pediatrics Research Institute, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Clinical Genetic Center, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Lin Y, Lin CH, Yin X, Zhu L, Yang J, Shen Y, Yang C, Chen X, Hu H, Ma Q, Shi X, Shen Y, Hu Z, Huang C, Huang X. Newborn Screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in China Using DNA Mass Spectrometry. Front Genet 2019; 10:1255. [PMID: 31921298 PMCID: PMC6928056 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.01255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder and the leading genetic cause of infant mortality. Early detection of SMA through newborn screening (NBS) is essential to selecting pre-symptomatic treatment and ensuring optimal outcome, as well as, prompting the urgent need for effective screening methods. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of applying an Agena iPLEX SMA assay in NBS for SMA in China. Methods: We developed an Agena iPLEX SMA assay based on the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and evaluated the performance of this assay through assessment of 167 previously-genotyped samples. Then we conducted a pilot study to apply this assay for SMA NBS. The SMN1 and SMN2 copy number of screen-positive patients were determined by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of the Agena iPLEX SMA assay were both 100%. Three patients with homozygous SMN1 deletion were successfully identified and conformed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis. Two patients had two SMN2 copies, which was correlated with severe SMA type I phenotype; both of them exhibited neurogenic lesion and with decreased muscle power. Another patient with four SMN2 copies, whose genotype correlated with milder SMA type III or IV phenotype, had normal growth and development without clinical symptoms. Conclusions: The Agena iPLEX SMA assay is an effective and reliable approach for population-based SMA NBS. The first large-scale pilot study using this assay in the Mainland of China showed that large-scale implementation of population-based NBS for SMA is feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Lin
- Department of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China.,Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Quanzhou Maternity and Children's Hospital, Quanzhou, China
| | - Chien-Hsing Lin
- Department of Research and Development, Feng Chi Biotech Corp, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Xiaoshan Yin
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, The University of Edinburg, Edinburg, United Kingdom
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Translational Medicine, Hangzhou Genuine Clinical Laboratory Co. Ltd, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianbin Yang
- Department of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuyan Shen
- Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Huaihua Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Huaihua, China
| | - Chiju Yang
- Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Jining Maternal and Child Health Family Service Center, Jining, China
| | - Xigui Chen
- Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Jining Maternal and Child Health Family Service Center, Jining, China
| | - Haili Hu
- Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Hefei Women and Children's Health Care Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Qingqing Ma
- Neonatal Disease Screening Center, Hefei Women and Children's Health Care Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Xueqin Shi
- Department of Pediatrics, Yancheng Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Yancheng, China
| | - Yaping Shen
- Department of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hu
- Department of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenggang Huang
- Research and Development Center, Zhejiang Biosan Biochemical Technologies Co., Ltd, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinwen Huang
- Department of Genetics and Metabolism, Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
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22
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High-throughput genetic newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy by rapid nucleic acid extraction from dried blood spots and 384-well qPCR. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 28:23-30. [PMID: 31363188 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0476-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishing nucleic acid-based assays for genetic newborn screening (NBS) provides the possibility to screen for genetically encoded diseases like spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), best before the onset of symptoms. Such assays should be easily scalable to 384-well reactions that make the screening of up to 2000 samples per day possible. We developed a test procedure based on a cleanup protocol for dried blood spots and a quantitative (q)PCR to screen for a homozygous deletion of exon 7 of the survival of motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1) that is responsible for >95% of SMA patients. Performance of this setup is evaluated in detail and tested on routine samples. Our cleanup method for nucleic acids from dried blood spots yields enough DNA for diverse subsequent qPCR applications. To date, we have applied this approach to test 213,279 samples within 18 months. Thirty patients were identified and confirmed, implying an incidence of 1:7109 for the homozygous deletion. Using our cleanup method, a rapid workflow could be established to prepare nucleic acids from dried blood spot cards. Targeting the exon 7 deletion, no invalid, false-positive, or false-negative results were reported to date. This allows timely identification of the disease and grants access to the recently introduced treatment options, in most cases before the onset of symptoms. Carriers are not identified, thus, there are no concerns of whether to report them.
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Bailey DB, Gehtland LM, Lewis MA, Peay H, Raspa M, Shone SM, Taylor JL, Wheeler AC, Cotten M, King NMP, Powell CM, Biesecker B, Bishop CE, Boyea BL, Duparc M, Harper BA, Kemper AR, Lee SN, Moultrie R, Okoniewski KC, Paquin RS, Pettit D, Porter KA, Zimmerman SJ. Early Check: translational science at the intersection of public health and newborn screening. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:238. [PMID: 31315600 PMCID: PMC6636013 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1606-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Newborn screening (NBS) occupies a unique space at the intersection of translational science and public health. As the only truly population-based public health program in the United States, NBS offers the promise of making the successes of translational medicine available to every infant with a rare disorder that is difficult to diagnose clinically, but for which strong evidence indicates that presymptomatic treatment will substantially improve outcomes. Realistic NBS policy requires data, but rare disorders face a special challenge: Screening cannot be done without supportive data, but adequate data cannot be collected in the absence of large-scale screening. The magnitude and scale of research to provide this expanse of data require working with public health programs, but most do not have the resources or mandate to conduct research. Methods To address this gap, we have established Early Check, a research program in partnership with a state NBS program. Early Check provides the infrastructure needed to identify conditions for which there have been significant advances in treatment potential, but require a large-scale, population-based study to test benefits and risks, demonstrate feasibility, and inform NBS policy. Discussion Our goal is to prove the benefits of a program that can, when compared with current models, accelerate understanding of diseases and treatments, reduce the time needed to consider inclusion of appropriate conditions in the standard NBS panel, and accelerate future research on new NBS conditions, including clinical trials for investigational interventions. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov registration #NCT03655223. Registered on August 31, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald B Bailey
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Lisa M Gehtland
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | | | - Holly Peay
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Melissa Raspa
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Scott M Shone
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Jennifer L Taylor
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Anne C Wheeler
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | | | | | - Cynthia M Powell
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Beth Lincoln Boyea
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Martin Duparc
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Blake A Harper
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | | | - Stacey N Lee
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | | | - Katherine C Okoniewski
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | | | - Denise Pettit
- North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Katherine Ackerman Porter
- Center for Newborn Screening, Ethics, and Disability Studies, RTI International, 3040 E. Cornwallis Rd., Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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Srivastava G, Srivastava P. Spinal muscular atrophy – a revisit of the diagnosis and treatment modalities. Int J Neurosci 2019; 129:1103-1118. [DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2019.1635128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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25
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Perspectives in genetic counseling for spinal muscular atrophy in the new therapeutic era: early pre-symptomatic intervention and test in minors. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 27:1774-1782. [PMID: 31053787 PMCID: PMC6871529 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0415-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal-recessive neuromuscular disorder representing a continuous spectrum of muscular weakness ranging from compromised neonates to adults with minimal manifestations. Patients show homozygous absence or disease-causing variants of the SMN1 gene (−/− or 0/0) and in carriers only one copy is absent or mutated (1/0). Genetic diagnosis and counseling in SMA present several challenges, including the existence of carriers (2/0) that are undistinguishable of non-carriers (1/1) with current genetic testing methods and the report of patients (0/0) with very mild manifestations and even asymptomatic that are discovered when a full symptomatic case appears in the family. Younger asymptomatic siblings of symptomatic SMA patients are usually never tested until adolescence or adult life. However, following regulatory approval of the first tailored treatment for SMA, the prospects for care of these patients have changed. Early testing, including pre-symptomatic newborn screening and confirmation of diagnosis would change proactive measures and opportunities for therapy based in the actual landscape of new treatments. This review discusses the challenges and new perspectives of genetic counseling in SMA.
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He X, Zhang X, Jing H, Zhang X, Gao M, Chen H, Geng J, Zheng Z, Fu Q, Zhu Z, Zheng J. Rare Copy Number Variations Might Not be Involved in the Molecular Pathogenesis of PA-IVS in an Unselected Chinese Cohort. Pediatr Cardiol 2019; 40:762-767. [PMID: 30868185 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-019-02062-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Congenital heart defect (CHD) is one of the most common birth defects in China, while pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PA-IVS) is the life-threatening form of CHD. Numerous previous studies revealed that rare copy number variants (CNVs) play important roles in CHD, but little is known about the prevalence and role of rare CNVs in PA-IVS. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide scanning of rare CNVs in an unselected cohort consisted of 54 Chinese patients with PA-IVS and 20 patients with pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect (PA-VSD). CNVs were identified in 6/20 PA-VSD patients (30%), and three of these CNVs (15%) were considered potentially pathogenic. Two pathogenic CNVs occurred at a known CHD locus (22q11.2) and one likely pathogenic deletion located at 13q12.12. However, no rare CNVs were detected in patients with PA-IVS. Potentially pathogenic CNVs were more enriched in PA-VSD patients than in PA-IVS patients (p = 0.018). No rare CNVs were detected in patients with PA-IVS in our study. PA/IVS might be different from PA/VSD in terms of genetics as well as anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin He
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhang
- The Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Hui Jing
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xiaoyang Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Manchen Gao
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Huiwen Chen
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Juan Geng
- Hangzhou Joingenome Diagnostics, Hangzhou, 311188, China
| | - Zhaojing Zheng
- Hangzhou Joingenome Diagnostics, Hangzhou, 311188, China
| | - Qihua Fu
- The Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zhongqun Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Jinghao Zheng
- Department of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1678 Dongfang Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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Glascock J, Sampson J, Haidet-Phillips A, Connolly A, Darras B, Day J, Finkel R, Howell RR, Klinger K, Kuntz N, Prior T, Shieh PB, Crawford TO, Kerr D, Jarecki J. Treatment Algorithm for Infants Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy through Newborn Screening. J Neuromuscul Dis 2018; 5:145-158. [PMID: 29614695 PMCID: PMC6004919 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-180304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by the degeneration of alpha motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscular atrophy. SMA is caused by deletions or mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1). In humans, a nearly identical copy gene, SMN2, is present. Because SMN2 has been shown to decrease disease severity in a dose-dependent manner, SMN2 copy number is predictive of disease severity. Objective: To develop a treatment algorithm for SMA-positive infants identified through newborn screening based upon SMN2 copy number. Methods: A working group comprised of 15 SMA experts participated in a modified Delphi process, moderated by a neutral third-party expert, to develop treatment guidelines. Results: The overarching recommendation is that all infants with two or three copies of SMN2 should receive immediate treatment (n = 13). For those infants in which immediate treatment is not recommended, guidelines were developed that outline the timing and appropriate screens and tests to be used to determine the timing of treatment initiation. Conclusions: The identification SMA affected infants via newborn screening presents an unprecedented opportunity for achievement of maximal therapeutic benefit through the administration of treatment pre-symptomatically. The recommendations provided here are intended to help formulate treatment guidelines for infants who test positive during the newborn screening process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anne Connolly
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Basil Darras
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John Day
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Richard Finkel
- Nemours Children's Hospital, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - R Rodney Howell
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Nancy Kuntz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas Prior
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Perry B Shieh
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Thomas O Crawford
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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28
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Tizzano EF, Zafeiriou D. Prenatal aspects in spinal muscular atrophy: From early detection to early presymptomatic intervention. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:944-950. [PMID: 30219357 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
With the recent advances in spinal muscular atrophy therapies, the complete scenario of standard of care and following up is changing not only in the clinical field with new phenotypes emerging but also with new expectations for patients, caregivers and health providers. The actual evidence indicates that early intervention and treatment is crucial for better response and prognosis. Knowledge of the prenatal and pre-symptomatic postnatal stages of the disease are becoming essential to consider the opportunities of timely diagnosis and to decide the earliest therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo F Tizzano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics and Rare Diseases Unit and Medicine Genetics Group, VHIR, Hospital Valle Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; CIBERER, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Dimitrios Zafeiriou
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, "Hippokratio" General Hospital, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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29
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Tizzano EF. Advanced therapies in rare diseases: the example of spinal muscular atrophy. Med Clin (Barc) 2018; 151:275-277. [PMID: 29685310 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo F Tizzano
- Área de Genética Clínica y Molecular-Unidad Funcional de Enfermedades Raras, Grupo de Medicina Genética VHIR, CIBERER, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, España.
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30
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Tizzano EF. Advanced therapies in rare diseases: The example of spinal muscular atrophy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcle.2018.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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31
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32
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Sampaio H, Wilcken B, Farrar M. Screening for spinal muscular atrophy. Med J Aust 2018; 209:147-148. [DOI: 10.5694/mja17.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bridget Wilcken
- Sydney Childrenˈs Hospital, Sydney, NSW
- Childrenˈs Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW
| | - Michelle Farrar
- Sydney Childrenˈs Hospital, Sydney, NSW
- UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW
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33
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Sumner CJ, Crawford TO. Two breakthrough gene-targeted treatments for spinal muscular atrophy: challenges remain. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:3219-3227. [PMID: 29985170 DOI: 10.1172/jci121658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The motor neuron disease spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is caused by recessive, loss-of-function mutations of the survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1). Alone, such mutations are embryonically lethal, but SMA patients retain a paralog gene, SMN2, that undergoes alternative pre-mRNA splicing, producing low levels of SMN protein. By mechanisms that are not well understood, reduced expression of the ubiquitously expressed SMN protein causes an early-onset motor neuron disease that often results in infantile or childhood mortality. Recently, striking clinical improvements have resulted from two novel treatment strategies to increase SMN protein by (a) modulating the splicing of existing SMN2 pre-mRNAs using antisense oligonucleotides, and (b) transducing motor neurons with self-complementary adeno-associated virus 9 (scAAV9) expressing exogenous SMN1 cDNA. We review the recently published clinical trial results and discuss the differing administration, tissue targeting, and potential toxicities of these two therapies. We also focus on the challenges that remain, emphasizing the many clinical and biologic questions that remain open. Answers to these questions will enable further optimization of these remarkable SMA treatments as well as provide insights that may well be useful in application of these therapeutic platforms to other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas O Crawford
- Department of Neurology.,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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34
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Cossu G, Birchall M, Brown T, De Coppi P, Culme-Seymour E, Gibbon S, Hitchcock J, Mason C, Montgomery J, Morris S, Muntoni F, Napier D, Owji N, Prasad A, Round J, Saprai P, Stilgoe J, Thrasher A, Wilson J. Lancet Commission: Stem cells and regenerative medicine. Lancet 2018; 391:883-910. [PMID: 28987452 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(17)31366-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Cossu
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Manchester. Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK.
| | | | | | - Paolo De Coppi
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sahra Gibbon
- Department of Anthropology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Chris Mason
- Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering, UCL and AvroBio, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Steve Morris
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - David Napier
- Department of Anthropology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nazanin Owji
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jeff Round
- Department of Health Economics, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Prince Saprai
- Faculty of Laws, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jack Stilgoe
- Department of Science and Technology Studies, University College London, London, UK
| | - Adrian Thrasher
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - James Wilson
- Department of Philosophy, University College London, London, UK
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Mammas IN, Spandidos DA. Spinal muscular atrophy type I and the dual role of viruses: An interview with Professor Basil T. Darras, Professor of Neurology (Pediatrics) at Harvard Medical School. Exp Ther Med 2018; 15:3673-3679. [PMID: 29556256 PMCID: PMC5844113 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.5884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
According to Professor Basil T. Darras, Professor of Neurology (Pediatrics) at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Program at Boston Children's Hospital in Boston (MA, USA), the diagnosis of SMA type I is clinical and is based on detailed general physical and neurological examinations. SMA type I remains the most common genetic disease resulting in death in infancy and is really devastating for the child, the parents, as well as the medical professionals with the privilege of caring for patients with SMA and their parents. The proposed management options include: i) no respiratory support; ii) non-invasive ventilation; and iii) tracheotomy with mechanical ventilation. Deciding, which option is the best, is indeed a very personal decision. The optimal clinical care should be extremely mindful of parents' wishes and management goals with regard to the quality of life. Since the end of 2016 in the USA, and recently in Europe, there exists the possibility of accessing a novel treatment drug for SMA, namely Nusinersen. This antisense oligonucleotide is administered intrathecally and increases the production of the fully functional SMN protein, thus improving motor function, the quality of life and survival. Among the ongoing clinical trials, oral treatment with RG7916, a small molecule SMN2 splicing modifier, appears to be really promising. Gene therapy using viral vectors is expected to offer an 'one and done' therapy and possibly a cure, if administered early in life, before any symptoms appear. It is really interesting that viruses, which at the moment are the cause of death of children with SMA, if genetically modified, may be used for their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis N Mammas
- Department of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Department of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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36
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Correlation between SMA type and SMN2 copy number revisited: An analysis of 625 unrelated Spanish patients and a compilation of 2834 reported cases. Neuromuscul Disord 2018; 28:208-215. [PMID: 29433793 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disorder caused by loss or mutations in SMN1. According to age of onset, achieved motor abilities, and life span, SMA patients are classified into type I (never sit), II (never walk unaided) or III (achieve independent walking abilities). SMN2, the highly homologous copy of SMN1, is considered the most important phenotypic modifier of the disease. Determination of SMN2 copy number is essential to establish careful genotype-phenotype correlations, predict disease evolution, and to stratify patients for clinical trials. We have determined SMN2 copy numbers in 625 unrelated Spanish SMA patients with loss or mutation of both copies of SMN1 and a clear assignation of the SMA type by clinical criteria. Furthermore, we compiled data from relevant worldwide reports that link SMN2 copy number with SMA severity published from 1999 to date (2834 patients with different ethnic and geographic backgrounds). Altogether, we have assembled a database with a total of 3459 patients to delineate more universal prognostic rules regarding the influence of SMN2 copy number on SMA phenotype. This issue is crucial in the present scenario of therapeutic advances with the perspective of SMA neonatal screening and early diagnosis to initiate treatments.
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A next-generation newborn screening pilot study: NGS on dried blood spots detects causal mutations in patients with inherited metabolic diseases. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17641. [PMID: 29247206 PMCID: PMC5732277 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18038-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The range of applications performed on dried blood spots (DBS) widely broadened during the past decades to now include next-generation sequencing (NGS). Previous publications provided a general overview of NGS capacities on DBS-extracted DNA but did not focus on the identification of specific disorders. We thus aimed to demonstrate that NGS was reliable for detecting pathogenic mutations on genomic material extracted from DBS. Assuming the future implementation of NGS technologies into newborn screening (NBS), we conducted a pilot study on fifteen patients with inherited metabolic disorders. Blood was collected from DBS. Whole-exome sequencing was performed, and sequences were analyzed with a specific focus on genes related to NBS. Results were compared to the known pathogenic mutations previously identified by Sanger sequencing. Causal mutations were readily characterized, and multiple polymorphisms have been identified. According to variant database prediction, an unexplained homozygote pathogenic mutation, unrelated to patient’s disorder, was also found in one sample. While amount and quality of DBS-extracted DNA are adequate to identify causal mutations by NGS, bioinformatics analysis revealed critical drawbacks: coverage fluctuations between regions, difficulties in identifying insertions/deletions, and inconsistent reliability of database-referenced variants. Nevertheless, results of this study lead us to consider future perspectives regarding “next-generation” NBS.
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Ross LF, Clarke AJ. A Historical and Current Review of Newborn Screening for Neuromuscular Disorders From Around the World: Lessons for the United States. Pediatr Neurol 2017; 77:12-22. [PMID: 29079012 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to review the history of newborn screening for three neuromuscular disorders (Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Pompe disease, and spinal muscular atrophy [SMA]) to determine best practices. METHODS The history of newborn screening for Duchenne muscular dystrophy began in 1975 with the measurement of creatinine kinase on newborn male blood spots from two Midwestern hospitals in the United States. Over the next 40 years, ten programs were implemented around the globe although none currently remain. The first experimental pilot program for Pompe disease began in 2005 in Taiwan. In 2013, Missouri was the first US state to implement Pompe newborn screening before its inclusion in the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) in 2015 by the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (United States). In 2008, SMA was reviewed and rejected for inclusion in the RUSP because no treatment existed. With the approval of nusinersen in late 2016, spinal muscular atrophy is being reconsidered for the RUSP. RESULTS A condition should meet public health screening criteria to be included in the RUSP. Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Pompe, and SMA challenge traditional screening criteria: Duchenne muscular dystrophy does not present in infancy and lacks effective treatment; Pompe and SMA may not present until adulthood; and safety and efficacy of long-term intrathecal treatment for SMA is unknown. Potential reproductive benefit and improved research recruitment do not justify a public health screening program. CONCLUSIONS This review provides lessons that could benefit US public health departments as they consider expanding screening to include neuromuscular disorders like Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Pompe, and SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lainie Friedman Ross
- Clinical Ethics, Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine, Surgery and the College, MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago Illinois.
| | - Angus John Clarke
- Clinical Genetics, Institute of Cancer & Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Chien YH, Chiang SC, Weng WC, Lee NC, Lin CJ, Hsieh WS, Lee WT, Jong YJ, Ko TM, Hwu WL. Presymptomatic Diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Through Newborn Screening. J Pediatr 2017; 190:124-129.e1. [PMID: 28711173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To demonstrate the feasibility of presymptomatic diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) through newborn screening (NBS). STUDY DESIGN We performed a screening trial to assess all newborns who underwent routine newborn metabolic screening at the National Taiwan University Hospital newborn screening center between November 2014 and September 2016. A real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) genotyping assay for the SMN1/SMN2 intron 7 c.888+100A/G polymorphism was performed to detect homozygous SMN1 deletion using dried blood spot (DBS) samples. Then the exon 7 c.840C>T mutation and SMN2 copy number were determined by both droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) using the original screening DBS and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) using a whole blood sample. RESULTS Of the 120 267 newborns, 15 tested positive according to the RT-PCR assay. The DBS ddPCR assay excluded 8 false-positives, and the other 7 patients were confirmed by the MLPA assay. Inclusion of the second-tier DBS ddPCR screening assay resulted in a positive prediction value of 100%. The incidence of SMA was 1 in 17 181 (95% CI, 1 in 8323 to 1 in 35 468). Two of the 3 patients with 2 copies of SMN2 and all 4 patients with 3 or 4 copies of SMN2 were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. Five of the 8 false-positives were caused by intragenic recombination between SMN1 and SMN2. CONCLUSION Newborn screening can detect patients affected by SMA before symptom onset and enable early therapeutic intervention. A combination of a RT-PCR and a second-tier ddPCR can accurately diagnose SMA from DBS samples with no false-positives. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02123186.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hsiu Chien
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chuan Chiang
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chin Weng
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ni-Chung Lee
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Jie Lin
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Shiun Hsieh
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Tso Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Jyh Jong
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics and Laboratory Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsang-Ming Ko
- Genephile Bioscience Laboratory, Ko's Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wuh-Liang Hwu
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder of motor neurons in the anterior horns of the spinal cord and brainstem that results in muscle atrophy and weakness. SMA is an autosomal recessive disease linked to deletions of the SMN1 gene on chromosome 5q. Humans have a duplicate gene (SMN2) whose product can mitigate disease severity, leading to the variability in severity and age of onset of disease, and is therefore a target for drug development. RECENT FINDINGS Advances in preclinical and clinical trials have paved the way for novel therapeutic options for SMA patients, including many currently in clinical trials. In 2016, the first treatment for SMA has been approved in the USA, an antisense oligonucleotide that increases full-length protein product derived from SMN2. The approval of a first treatment for SMA and the rapid advances in clinical trials provide the prospect for multiple approaches to disease modification. There are several other promising therapeutics in different stages of development, based on approaches such as neuroprotection, or gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Bharucha-Goebel
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
- Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhoood Section (NNDCS)/NINDS/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Petra Kaufmann
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)/NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Abstract
Despite significant advances in basic research, the treatment of degenerative diseases of the nervous system remains one of the greatest challenges for translational medicine. The childhood onset motor neuron disorder spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has been viewed as one of the more tractable targets for molecular therapy due to a detailed understanding of the molecular genetic basis of the disease. In SMA, inactivating mutations in the SMN1 gene can be partially compensated for by limited expression of SMN protein from a variable number of copies of the SMN2 gene, which provides both a molecular explanation for phenotypic severity and a target for therapy. The advent of the first tailored molecular therapy for SMA, based on modulating the splicing behaviour of the SMN2 gene provides, for the first time, a treatment which alters the natural history of motor neuron degeneration. Here we consider how this will change the landscape for diagnosis, clinical management and future therapeutic trials in SMA, as well as the implications for the molecular therapy of other neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - E F Tizzano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Rare Diseases Unit, Hospital Valle Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERER, Barcelona, Spain
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Glascock J, Lenz M, Hobby K, Jarecki J. Cure SMA and our patient community celebrate the first approved drug for SMA. Gene Ther 2017; 24:498-500. [PMID: 28504658 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2017.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cure SMA is dedicated to the treatment and cure of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)-a disease affecting motor neurons, that robs patients of their ability to walk, eat and even breathe. Since 1984, we have directed and invested in comprehensive research that has shaped the scientific community's understanding of SMA. On 23 December, 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced approval of Spinraza, a treatment developed by Biogen and Ionis, making it the first-ever approved therapy for SMA. Cure SMA provided early research funding in 2003 leading to the discovery of ISS-N1 sequence, now targeted by Spinraza. We are pleased that our strategy of providing seed funding for research to either identify new therapeutic strategies or de-risk early stage ones, has proven successful with Spinraza's approval. The approval of Spinraza provides great hope to the SMA community and represents decades of hard work and perseverance by families, researchers, pharmaceutical companies and the FDA. Our hope is that Spinraza is the leading edge of a robust drug pipeline, and with our deep expertise in every aspect of SMA, we remain committed to do everything we can to support research and drug development to achieve the greatest possible effect for each and every SMA patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Glascock
- Cure SMA, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, USA
| | - M Lenz
- Cure SMA, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, USA
| | - K Hobby
- Cure SMA, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, USA
| | - J Jarecki
- Cure SMA, Elk Grove Village, Illinois, USA
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Boardman FK, Young PJ, Griffiths FE. Newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy: The views of affected families and adults. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:1546-1561. [PMID: 28374951 PMCID: PMC5485005 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the leading genetic causes of infant death worldwide. However, due to a lack of treatments, SMA has historically fallen short of Wilson‐Jungner criteria. While studies have explored the acceptability of expanded newborn screening to the general public, the views of affected families have been largely overlooked. This is in spite of the potential for direct impacts on them and their unique positioning to consider the value of early diagnosis. We have previously reported data on attitudes toward pre‐conception and prenatal genetic screening for SMA among affected families (adults with SMA [n = 82] and family members [n = 255]). Here, using qualitative interview [n = 36] and survey data [n = 337], we report the views of this same cohort toward newborn screening. The majority (70%) of participants were in favor, however, all subgroups (except adults with type II) preferred pre‐conception and/or prenatal screening to newborn screening. Key reasons for newborn screening support were: (1) the potential for improved support; (2) the possibility of enrolling pre‐symptomatic children on clinical trials. Key reasons for non‐support were: (1) concerns about impact on the early experiences of the family; (2) inability to treat. Importantly, participants did not view the potential for inaccurate typing as a significant obstacle to the launch of a population‐wide screening program. This study underscores the need to include families affected by genetic diseases within consultations on screening. This is particularly important for conditions such as SMA which challenge traditional screening criteria, and for which new therapeutics are emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity K Boardman
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Philip J Young
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Frances E Griffiths
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
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Donlin-Asp PG, Fallini C, Campos J, Chou CC, Merritt ME, Phan HC, Bassell GJ, Rossoll W. The Survival of Motor Neuron Protein Acts as a Molecular Chaperone for mRNP Assembly. Cell Rep 2017; 18:1660-1673. [PMID: 28199839 PMCID: PMC5492976 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.01.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a motor neuron disease caused by reduced levels of the survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein. SMN is part of a multiprotein complex that facilitates the assembly of spliceosomal small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs). SMN has also been found to associate with mRNA-binding proteins, but the nature of this association was unknown. Here, we have employed a combination of biochemical and advanced imaging methods to demonstrate that SMN promotes the molecular interaction between IMP1 protein and the 3' UTR zipcode region of β-actin mRNA, leading to assembly of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes that associate with the cytoskeleton to facilitate trafficking. We have identified defects in mRNP assembly in cells and tissues from SMA disease models and patients that depend on the SMN Tudor domain and explain the observed deficiency in mRNA localization and local translation, providing insight into SMA pathogenesis as a ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-assembly disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul G Donlin-Asp
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Claudia Fallini
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jazmin Campos
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ching-Chieh Chou
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Megan E Merritt
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Han C Phan
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Gary J Bassell
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Wilfried Rossoll
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Laboratory of Translational Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Willingness to Pay for a Newborn Screening Test for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Pediatr Neurol 2017; 66:69-75. [PMID: 27769729 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The current US mandatory newborn screening panel does not include spinal muscular atrophy, the most common fatal genetic disease among children. We assessed population preferences for newborn screening for spinal muscular atrophy, and how test preferences varied depending on immediate treatment implications. METHODS We conducted an online willingness-to-pay survey of US adults (n = 982). Respondents were asked to imagine being parents of a newborn. Each respondent was presented with two hypothetical scenarios following the spinal muscular atrophy screening test: current standard of care (no treatment available) and one of three randomly assigned scenarios (new treatment available to improve functioning, survival, or both). We used a bidding game to elicit willingness to pay for the spinal muscular atrophy test, and performed a two-part model to estimate median and mean willingness-to-pay values. RESULTS Most respondents (79% to 87%) would prefer screening their newborns for spinal muscular atrophy. People expressed a willingness to pay for spinal muscular atrophy screening even without an available therapy (median: $142; mean: $253). Willingness to pay increased with treatment availability (median: $161 to $182; mean: $270 to $297) and respondent income. Most respondents considered test accuracy, treatment availability, and treatment effectiveness very important or important factors in deciding willingness to pay. CONCLUSIONS Most people would prefer and would be willing to pay for testing their newborn for spinal muscular atrophy, even in the absence of direct treatment. People perceive the spinal muscular atrophy test more valuable if treatment were available to improve the newborn's functioning and survival. Despite preferences for the test information, adding spinal muscular atrophy to newborn screening programs remains controversial. Future studies are needed to determine how early detection may impact long-term patient outcomes.
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Burns JK, Kothary R, Parks RJ. Opening the window: The case for carrier and perinatal screening for spinal muscular atrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 26:551-9. [PMID: 27460292 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2016.06.459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common genetically inherited neurodegenerative disease that leads to infant mortality worldwide. SMA is caused by genetic deletion or mutation in the survival of motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, which results in a deficiency in SMN protein. For reasons that are still unclear, SMN protein deficiency predominantly affects α-motor neurons, resulting in their degeneration and subsequent paralysis of limb and trunk muscles, progressing to death in severe cases. Emerging evidence suggests that SMN protein deficiency also affects the heart, autonomic nervous system, skeletal muscle, liver, pancreas and perhaps many other organs. Currently, there is no cure for SMA. Patient treatment includes respiratory care, physiotherapy, and nutritional management, which can somewhat ameliorate disease symptoms and increase life span. Fortunately, several novel therapies have advanced to human clinical trials. However, data from studies in animal models of SMA indicate that the greatest therapeutic benefit is achieved through initiating treatment as early as possible, before widespread loss of motor neurons has occurred. In this review, we discuss the merit of carrier and perinatal patient screening for SMA considering the efficacy of emerging therapeutics and the physical, emotional and financial burden of the disease on affected families and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K Burns
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; University of Ottawa Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Rashmi Kothary
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; University of Ottawa Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Robin J Parks
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; University of Ottawa Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
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Moultrie RR, Kish-Doto J, Peay H, Lewis MA. A Review on Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes. J Genet Couns 2016; 25:892-900. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9955-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a devastating motor neuron disease primarily affecting children, for which there is currently no known disease-modifying therapy or cure. The identification of the disease gene, survival motor neuron, led to an expansion in SMA research and allowed the creation of numerous animal and cellular models. This led to a significant increase in our understanding of the pathophysiology of SMA, culminating in the development of multiple SMN-dependent and -independent therapies. Among the most exciting options, viral gene therapy has emerged as one leading candidate. A growing body of pre-clinical evidence suggests that administration of scAAV9 carrying an SMN transgene can be both efficacious and translationally viable. In this article, we briefly review the progress which has been made in the field, and provide a commentary on some of the challenges which remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Gillingwater
- a 1 Centre for Integrative Physiology, University of Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, Edinburgh, UK
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