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Forni GL, Kattamis A, Kuo KHM, Maggio A, Sheth S, Taher AT, Viprakasit V. Iron chelation therapy for children with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: How young is too young? Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e31035. [PMID: 38753107 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
In this review, we provide a summary of evidence on iron overload in young children with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) and explore the ideal timing for intervention. Key data from clinical trials and observational studies of the three available iron chelators deferoxamine, deferiprone, and deferasirox are also evaluated for inclusion of subsets of young children, especially those less than 6 years of age. Evidence on the efficacy and safety of iron chelation therapy for children ≥2 years of age with transfusional iron overload is widely available. New data exploring the risks and benefits of early-start iron chelation in younger patients with minimal iron overload are also emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonis Kattamis
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kevin H M Kuo
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aurelio Maggio
- Campus of Haematology Franco and Piera Cutino, AOOR Villa Sofia-V. Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Sujit Sheth
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Department of Pediatrics & Thalassemia Center, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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2
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Li J, Lv A, Chen M, Xu L, Huang H. Activating transcription factor 4 in erythroid development and β -thalassemia: a powerful regulator with therapeutic potential. Ann Hematol 2024; 103:2659-2670. [PMID: 37906269 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05508-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) is a fundamental basic region/leucine zipper transcription factor, responds to various stress signals, and plays crucial roles in normal metabolic and stress response processes. Although its functions in human health and disease are not completely understood, compelling evidence underscores ATF4 is indispensable for multiple stages and lineages of erythroid development, including the regulation of fetal liver hematopoietic stem cells, induction of terminal erythroid differentiation, and maintenance of erythroid homeostasis. β -Thalassemia is a blood disorder arising from mutations in the β -globin gene. Reactivating the expression of the γ -globin gene in adult patients has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for ameliorating clinical symptoms associated with β -thalassemia. Recent research has suggested that ATF4 contributes to decreased fetal hemoglobin (HbF) level through its binding to potent negative regulators of HbF, such as BCL11A and MYB. Notably, evidence also suggests a contrasting outcome where increased ATF4 protein levels are associated with enhanced HbF at the transcriptional level. Consequently, the identification of mechanisms that modulate ATF4-mediated γ -globin transcription and its effects on erythroid development may unveil novel targets for β -thalassemia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingmin Li
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Aixiang Lv
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Meihuan Chen
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Key Laboratory for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Liangpu Xu
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Key Laboratory for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Huang
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
- Medical Genetic Diagnosis and Therapy Center, Fujian Key Laboratory for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China.
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Musallam KM, Sheth S, Cappellini MD, Forni GL, Maggio A, Taher AT. Anemia and iron overload as prognostic markers of outcomes in β-thalassemia. Expert Rev Hematol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39037857 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2024.2383420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ineffective erythropoiesis and subsequent anemia as well as primary and secondary (transfusional) iron overload are key drivers for morbidity and mortality outcomes in patients with β-thalassemia. AREAS COVERED In this review, we highlight evidence from observational studies evaluating the association between measures of anemia and iron overload versus outcomes in both non-transfusion-dependent and transfusion-dependent forms of β-thalassemia. EXPERT OPINION Several prognostic thresholds have been identified with implications for patient management. These have also formed the basis for the design of novel therapy clinical trials by informing eligibility and target endpoints. Still, several data gaps persist in view of the challenge of assessing prospective long-term outcomes in a chronic disease. Pooling insights on the prognostic value of different measures of disease mechanism will be key to design future scoring systems that can help optimize patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled M Musallam
- Center for Research on Rare Blood Disorders (CR-RBD), Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sujit Sheth
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Domenica Cappellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community, University of Milan, Ca' Granda Foundation IRCCS Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Aurelio Maggio
- Campus of Haematology Franco and Piera Cutino, AOOR Villa Sofia-V. Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Huang W, Liao G, Xiao J, Liu X, Yang K. Hydroxyurea achieved a hematologic response in a patient with β-thalassemia and secondary severe thrombocytosis post splenectomy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024:e31231. [PMID: 39054696 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Huang
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Guiping Liao
- Department of Hematology, The 923rd Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Nanning, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, China
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Klonizakis P, Klaassen RJ, Roy N, Papatsouma I, Mainou M, Christodoulou I, Tsapas A, Vlachaki E. Quality of Life in Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Patients in Greece Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Value Health Reg Issues 2024; 42:100986. [PMID: 38723367 DOI: 10.1016/j.vhri.2024.100986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The peak of the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging situation for transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) patients. The objectives of this study were to measure the quality of life (QoL) in TDT patients during the COVID-19 lockdown restriction measures, compare the results with the pre-COVID-19 era, and evaluate the influence of sociodemographic and clinical factors on QoL. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study of 110 consecutively selected adult TDT patients, during the stringent lockdown restriction measures implemented in Greece. All participants completed a combination of 2 QoL questionnaires, the generic Short-Form Health Survey 36 version 2 and the disease-specific Transfusion-Quality of life (TranQol). We used the "1/2 SD method," a distribution-based approach to calculate minimal clinically important differences and clinically compare the QoL scores between the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 era. A backward stepwise linear regression was selected to explore the influence of potential predictors on TranQol scores. RESULTS The Short-Form Health Survey 36 version 2 and TranQol scores remained low but not clinically different compared with the pre-COVID-19 era. Older, married, and higher educated TDT patients exhibited significantly lower TranQol summary scores. The patients who reported a negative effect of the COVID-19 pandemic had significantly lower TranQol scores in summary and all subdomains except for school and career. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, the overall QoL of TDT patients was clinically similar to the status of the pre-COVID-19 era. Nevertheless, most of the significant QoL subdomains were negatively affected, and distinct groups of TDT patients were more vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippos Klonizakis
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Robert J Klaassen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Ottawa, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Noémi Roy
- Department of Haematology, Oxford University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, England, UK
| | | | - Maria Mainou
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna Christodoulou
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Apostolos Tsapas
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efthymia Vlachaki
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Tanzi E, Di Modica SM, Bordini J, Olivari V, Pagani A, Furiosi V, Silvestri L, Campanella A, Nai A. Bone marrow Tfr2 deletion improves the therapeutic efficacy of the activin-receptor ligand trap RAP-536 in β-thalassemic mice. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:1313-1325. [PMID: 38629683 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a disorder characterized by anemia, ineffective erythropoiesis (IE), and iron overload, whose treatment still requires improvement. The activin receptor-ligand trap Luspatercept, a novel therapeutic option for β-thalassemia, stimulates erythroid differentiation inhibiting the transforming growth factor β pathway. However, its exact mechanism of action and the possible connection with erythropoietin (Epo), the erythropoiesis governing cytokine, remain to be clarified. Moreover, Luspatercept does not correct all the features of the disease, calling for the identification of strategies that enhance its efficacy. Transferrin receptor 2 (TFR2) regulates systemic iron homeostasis in the liver and modulates the response to Epo of erythroid cells, thus balancing red blood cells production with iron availability. Stimulating Epo signaling, hematopoietic Tfr2 deletion ameliorates anemia and IE in Hbbth3/+ thalassemic mice. To investigate whether hematopoietic Tfr2 inactivation improves the efficacy of Luspatercept, we treated Hbbth3/+ mice with or without hematopoietic Tfr2 (Tfr2BMKO/Hbbth3/+) with RAP-536, the murine analog of Luspatercept. As expected, both hematopoietic Tfr2 deletion and RAP-536 significantly ameliorate IE and anemia, and the combined approach has an additive effect. Since RAP-536 has comparable efficacy in both Hbbth3/+ and Tfr2BMKO/Hbbth3/+ animals, we propose that the drug promotes erythroid differentiation independently of TFR2 and EPO stimulation. Notably, the lack of Tfr2, but not RAP-536, can also attenuate iron-overload and related complications. Overall, our results shed further light on the mechanism of action of Luspatercept and suggest that strategies aimed at inhibiting hematopoietic TFR2 might improve the therapeutic efficacy of activin receptor-ligand traps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Tanzi
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Maria Di Modica
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Jessica Bordini
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- B-cell Neoplasia Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Violante Olivari
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Pagani
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Furiosi
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Silvestri
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Campanella
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- B-cell Neoplasia Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Nai
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Long J, Yu C, Sun L, Peng M, Song C, Mao A, Zhan J, Liu E. Comprehensive analysis of thalassemia alleles (CATSA) based on third-generation sequencing is a comprehensive and accurate approach for neonatal thalassemia screening. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 560:119749. [PMID: 38796052 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119749] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Thalassemia is one of the most common and damaging monogenic diseases in the world. It is caused by pathogenic variants of α- and/or β-globin genes, which disrupt the balance of these two protein chains and leads to α-thalassemia or β-thalassemia, respectively. Patients with α-thalassemia or β-thalassemia could exhibit a severe phenotype, with no simple and effective treatment. A three-tiered strategy of carrier screening, prenatal diagnosis and newborn screening has been established in China for the prevention and control of thalassemia, of which the first two parts have been studied thoroughly. The implementation of neonatal thalassemia screening is lagging, and the effectiveness of various screening programs has not yet been demonstrated. In this study, hemoglobin capillary electrophoresis (CE), hotspot testing method, and third-generation sequencing (TGS) were used in the variant detection of 2000 newborn samples, to assess the efficacy of these methods in neonatal thalassemia screening. Compared with CE (249, 12.45 %) and hotspot analysis (424, 21.2 %), CATSA detected the largest number of thalassemia variants (535, 26.75 %), which included 24 hotspot variants, increased copy number of α-globin gene, rare pathogenic variants, and three unreported potentially disease-causing variants. More importantly, CATSA directly determined the cis-trans relationship of variants in three newborns, which greatly shortens the clinical diagnosis time of thalassemia. CATSA showed a great advantage over other genetic tests and could become the most powerful technical support for the three-tiered prevention and control strategy of thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Long
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi 535099, China.
| | - Chunhui Yu
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi 535099, China
| | - Lei Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi 535099, China
| | - Mingkui Peng
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi 535099, China
| | - Chuanlu Song
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi 535099, China
| | - Aiping Mao
- Third-Generation Sequencing BU, Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Jiahan Zhan
- Third-Generation Sequencing BU, Berry Genomics Corporation, Beijing 102200, China
| | - Enqi Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
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Malagù M, Tonet E, Orazio G, Longo F, De Raffele M, Sirugo P, Capanni A, Clò S, Berloni ML, Marchini F, Manfrini M, Mari E, Soffritti O, Culcasi M, Balla C, Vitali F, Cossu A, Bertini M. Association between Epicardial Adipose Tissue and Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3471. [PMID: 38930000 PMCID: PMC11205093 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13123471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Modern treatments for transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDβT) have allowed patients to reach high life expectancy with no iron overload. Despite survival improvement, atrial fibrillation (AF) has emerged as a relevant issue. AF pathophysiology and characteristics in TDβT are different than in the general population. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) may play a role but its relationship with AF in patients with TDβT has not been explored. Methods: A monocentric, cross-sectional study, enrolling consecutive patients with TDβT. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) was evaluated at magnetic resonance. Characteristics of patients with and without history of AF were investigated. Factors independently associated with AF prevalence were analyzed. Results: A total of 116 patients were enrolled. All patients were treated with regular chelation therapy. The prevalence of AF was 29.3% (34/116). Cardiac T2* and liver iron concentration were no different between patients with and without AF. EAT thickness was significantly higher in patients with AF at left atrium, right atrium and right ventricle (5.0 vs. 4.0 mm, p < 0.01, 4.4 vs. 4.0, p = 0.02 and 5.0 vs. 4.3, p = 0.04). Patients with AF presented with older age, (53 vs. 49 years, p < 0.01), more hypothyroidism (44.1 vs. 20.7%, p = 0.01), pulmonary hypertension (23.5 vs. 2.4% p < 0.01), splenectomy (88.2 vs. 64.6%, p = 0.01), higher right and left atrial volume (61 vs. 40 and 74 vs. 43 mL, both p < 0.01). At multivariable analysis, hypothyroidism, left atrial volume and left atrial EAT were independently associated with AF (odds ratio 9.95, 1.09 and 1.91, respectively). Conclusions: In a contemporary cohort of patients with TDβT, treated with regular chelation therapy, prevalence of AF was unrelated to iron overload. EAT was independently associated with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Malagù
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Tonet
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Orazio
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Filomena Longo
- Day Hospital Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina De Raffele
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Sirugo
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Capanni
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Clò
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Federico Marchini
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Manfrini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Centre for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisa Mari
- Day Hospital Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Olga Soffritti
- Day Hospital Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Culcasi
- Day Hospital Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristina Balla
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Vitali
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alberto Cossu
- Radiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Bertini
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
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Pokharel B, Ravikumar Y, Rathinavel L, Chewonarin T, Pongpom M, Tipsuwan W, Koonyosying P, Srichairatanakool S. The Discovery of Selective Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 5 Inhibitors in the Management of β-Thalassemia through Computational Methods. Molecules 2024; 29:2662. [PMID: 38893537 PMCID: PMC11173459 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29112662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
β-Thalassemia is an inherited genetic disorder associated with β-globin chain synthesis, which ultimately becomes anemia. Adenosine-2,3-dialdehyde, by inhibiting arginine methyl transferase 5 (PRMT5), can induce fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels. Hence, the materialization of PRMT5 inhibitors is considered a promising therapy in the management of β-thalassemia. This study conducted a virtual screening of certain compounds similar to 5'-deoxy-5'methyladenosine (3XV) using the PubChem database. The top 10 compounds were chosen based on the best docking scores, while their interactions with the PRMT5 active site were analyzed. Further, the top two compounds demonstrating the lowest binding energy were subjected to drug-likeness analysis and pharmacokinetic property predictions, followed by molecular dynamics simulation studies. Based on the molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) score and molecular interactions, (3R,4S)-2-(6-aminopurin-9-yl)-5-[(4-ethylcyclohexyl)sulfanylmethyl]oxolane-3,4-diol (TOP1) and 2-(6-Aminopurin-9-yl)-5-[(6-aminopurin-9-yl)methylsulfanylmethyl]oxolane-3,4-diol (TOP2) were identified as potential hit compounds, while TOP1 exhibited higher binding affinity and stabler binding capabilities than TOP2 during molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) analysis. Taken together, the outcomes of our study could aid researchers in identifying promising PRMT5 inhibitors. Moreover, further investigations through in vivo and in vitro experiments would unquestionably confirm that this compound could be employed as a therapeutic drug in the management of β-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishant Pokharel
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.P.); (Y.R.); (T.C.); (P.K.)
| | - Yuvaraj Ravikumar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.P.); (Y.R.); (T.C.); (P.K.)
| | | | - Teera Chewonarin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.P.); (Y.R.); (T.C.); (P.K.)
| | - Monsicha Pongpom
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Wachiraporn Tipsuwan
- Division of Biochemistry, School of Medical Science, University of Phayao, Phayao 5600, Thailand;
| | - Pimpisid Koonyosying
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.P.); (Y.R.); (T.C.); (P.K.)
| | - Somdet Srichairatanakool
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.P.); (Y.R.); (T.C.); (P.K.)
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10
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Takagi K, Kasai H, Tani H, Sakao S, Sugiura T, Suzuki T. Macitentan Administration for Pulmonary Hypertension Due to β-thalassemia with Multiple Organ Failure. Intern Med 2024; 63:1585-1590. [PMID: 37952959 PMCID: PMC11189700 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.2307-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
A 51-year-old Thai woman diagnosed with β-thalassemia underwent regular blood transfusion and iron-chelating therapy. However, after voluntarily discontinuing treatment, the patient developed progressive dyspnea and was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension following right heart catheterization. Despite resuming blood transfusions, her condition did not improve. Because the patient had a history of multiple organ failure, curative treatment for β-thalassemia was not feasible, and macitentan was administered. Despite experiencing hypotension as an adverse event, her condition remained stable during macitentan treatment. Thus, macitentan may be well tolerated in patients with pulmonary hypertension caused by β-thalassemia with multiple organ dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Takagi
- Department of Respirology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Hajime Kasai
- Department of Respirology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tani
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Seiichiro Sakao
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW), Japan
| | - Toshihiko Sugiura
- Department of Respirology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
| | - Takuji Suzuki
- Department of Respirology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan
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Tuo Y, Li Y, Li Y, Ma J, Yang X, Wu S, Jin J, He Z. Global, regional, and national burden of thalassemia, 1990-2021: a systematic analysis for the global burden of disease study 2021. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 72:102619. [PMID: 38745964 PMCID: PMC11090906 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anemia is a significant contributor to the global disease burden, of which thalassemia is the most common hereditary anaemic disease. Previous estimates were based on data that were geographically limited and lacked comprehensive global analysis. This study provides the prevalence, incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of thalassemia in 204 countries and regions of thalassemia between 1990 and 2021, focusing on the age structure and time trends of the disease burden. To provide effective information for health policy, allocation of medical resources and optimization of patient management programs. Methods Using the standardised Global Burden of Disease (GBD) methodologies, we aimed to derive a more precise representation of the health burden posed by thalassemia by considering four distinct types of epidemiological data, namely the incidence at birth, prevalence, mortality and DALYs. The presented data were meticulously estimated and displayed both as numerical counts and as age-standardised rates per 100,000 persons of the population, accompanied by uncertainty interval (UI) to highlight potential statistical variability. The temporal trends spanning the years 1990-2021 were subjected to a rigorous examination utilizing Joinpoint regression analysis. This methodological approach facilitated the computation of the annual percentage change (APC) and the average annual percentage change (AAPC), along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Findings Globally, the age-standardized prevalence rates (ASPR), age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR), and age-standardized DALYs rates for thalassemia in 2021 were 18.28 per 100,000 persons (95% UI 15.29-22.02), 1.93 per 100,000 persons (95% UI 1.51-2.49), 0.15 per 100,000 persons(95% UI 0.11-0.20), and 11.65 per 100,000 persons (95% UI 8.24-14.94), respectively. Compared to 1990, these rates have decreased by 0.18 (95% UI -0.22 to -0.14), 0.25 (95% UI -0.30 to -0.19), 0.48 (95% UI -0.60 to -0.28), and 0.49 (95% UI -0.62 to -0.29) respectively. In 2021, the ASIR of thalassemia was highest in East Asia at 7.35 per 100,000 persons (95% UI 5.37-10.04), and ASMR was highest in Southeast Asia at 0.37 per 100,000 persons (95% UI 0.29-0.45).Gender comparisons showed negligible differences in disease burden, with the highest prevalence noted in children under five, decreasing with age. The global ASPR and ASMR declined from 1990 to 2021 overall, though an increasing trend in prevalence was found among the elderly. Joinpoint analysis revealed that the global ASPR increased between 2018 and 2021 (APC = 9.2%, 95% CI: 4.8%-13.8%, P < 0.001), ASIR decreased (APC = -7.68%, 95% CI: -10.88% to -4.36%, P < 0.001), and there was a significant rise in ASMR from 2019 to 2021 (APC = 4.8%, 95% CI: 0.1%-9.6%, P < 0.05). Trends in ASPR and ASMR varied across regions, with notable changes in South Asia. Interpretation The global burden of thalassemia, reflected in its prevalence, incidence, mortality, and DALYs, exhibits significant disparities. Geographic and demographic shifts in disease distribution have been observed from 1990 to 2021, with an overall decrease in burden, yet an increase in cases among the elderly population. Analysis of epidemiological trends over time highlights the influence of health policies and significant public health interventions on thalassemia outcomes. There data are crucial for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers to refine and enhance management strategies, aiming to further mitigate thalassemia's global impact. Funding National Natural Science Foundation of China; Guizhou Province Science and Technology Project; Guizhou Province Science and Technology Foundation of Health Commission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Tuo
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Blood Diseases, CAMS Key Laboratory of Gene Therapy for Blood Diseases, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Jianjuan Ma
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yang
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Shasha Wu
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Jiao Jin
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Zhixu He
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Department of Pediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Tissue Injury Repair and Regenerative Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zuiyi, 563000, China
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12
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Ling L, Wang F, Li Y, He S, Wu F, Yang L, Xu L, Wang T, Zhou S, Yang F, Wei Z, Yang L, Yang Z, Fang X, Zhou Y, Xue J, Yin X, Wei H, Yu D. Depletion of miR-144/451 alleviates anemia in β-thalassemic mice. Blood Adv 2024; 8:2565-2570. [PMID: 37285799 PMCID: PMC11145754 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ling
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fangfang Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, Yangzhou University Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yaoyao Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Sheng He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Shuting Zhou
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zichen Wei
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Fang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yali Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The 923 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jun Xue
- Department of Hematology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolin Yin
- Department of Hematology, The 923 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hongwei Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Duonan Yu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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13
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Fragkou N, Vlachaki E, Goulis I, Sinakos E. Liver disease in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia: The emerging role of metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:671-677. [PMID: 38818299 PMCID: PMC11135276 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i5.671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In this Editorial, we highlight the possible role that metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) may play in the future, regarding liver disease in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDBT). MASLD is characterized by excessive accumulation of fat in the liver (hepatic steatosis), in the presence of cardiometabolic factors. There is a strong correlation between the occurrence of MASLD and insulin resistance, while its increased prevalence parallels the global epidemic of diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity. Patients with TDBT need regular transfusions for life to ensure their survival. Through these transfusions, a large amount of iron is accumulated, which causes saturation of transferrin and leads to the circulation of free iron molecules, which cause damage to vital organs (primarily the liver and myocardium). Over the past, the main mechanisms for the development of liver disease in these patients have been the toxic effect of iron on the liver and chronic hepatitis C, for which modern and effective treatments have been found, resulting in successful treatment. Additional advances in the treatment and monitoring of these patients have led to a reduction in deaths, and an increase in their life expectancy. This increased survival makes them vulnerable to the onset of diseases, which until recently were mainly related to the non-thalassemic general population, such as obesity and DM. There is insufficient data in the literature regarding the prevalence of MASLD in this population or on the risk factors for its occurrence. However, it was recently shown by a study of 45 heavily transfused patients with beta-thalassemia (Padeniya et al, BJH), that the presence of steatosis is a factor influencing the value of liver elastography and thus liver fibrosis. These findings suggest that future research in the field of liver disease in patients with TDBT should be focused on the occurrence, the risk factors, and the effect of MASLD on these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Fragkou
- 4 Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Efthimia Vlachaki
- 2 Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Ioannis Goulis
- 4 Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Sinakos
- 4 Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokratio Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece.
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Piolatto A, Gaglioti CM, Tesio N, Clemente MG, Culcasi M, Matrone A, Pila MP, Sambataro A, Longo F, Origa R, Ferrero GB. Deferasirox film-coated tablet-associated ulcerative colitis: An emerging pattern in thalassemia patients? Br J Haematol 2024. [PMID: 38782586 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Piolatto
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Reference Centre for Haemoglobinopathies, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Carmen Maria Gaglioti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Reference Centre for Haemoglobinopathies, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Nicolò Tesio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Reference Centre for Haemoglobinopathies, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Clemente
- S.S.D. Thalassemia, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, "Antonio Cao" Children Hospital, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Martina Culcasi
- S.S.D. Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, A.O.U. Arcispedale Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Cona, Italy
| | - Alessio Matrone
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Reference Centre for Haemoglobinopathies, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Pila
- S.S.D. Thalassemia, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, "Antonio Cao" Children Hospital, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Angela Sambataro
- Gastroenterology Unit, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Filomena Longo
- S.S.D. Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies, A.O.U. Arcispedale Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Cona, Italy
| | - Raffaella Origa
- S.S.D. Thalassemia, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, "Antonio Cao" Children Hospital, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Ferrero
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Reference Centre for Haemoglobinopathies, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, University of Torino, Orbassano, Italy
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15
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Locatelli F, Lang P, Wall D, Meisel R, Corbacioglu S, Li AM, de la Fuente J, Shah AJ, Carpenter B, Kwiatkowski JL, Mapara M, Liem RI, Cappellini MD, Algeri M, Kattamis A, Sheth S, Grupp S, Handgretinger R, Kohli P, Shi D, Ross L, Bobruff Y, Simard C, Zhang L, Morrow PK, Hobbs WE, Frangoul H. Exagamglogene Autotemcel for Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:1663-1676. [PMID: 38657265 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa2309673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) is a nonviral cell therapy designed to reactivate fetal hemoglobin synthesis through ex vivo clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 gene editing of the erythroid-specific enhancer region of BCL11A in autologous CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). METHODS We conducted an open-label, single-group, phase 3 study of exa-cel in patients 12 to 35 years of age with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia and a β0/β0, β0/β0-like, or non-β0/β0-like genotype. CD34+ HSPCs were edited by means of CRISPR-Cas9 with a guide mRNA. Before the exa-cel infusion, patients underwent myeloablative conditioning with pharmacokinetically dose-adjusted busulfan. The primary end point was transfusion independence, defined as a weighted average hemoglobin level of 9 g per deciliter or higher without red-cell transfusion for at least 12 consecutive months. Total and fetal hemoglobin concentrations and safety were also assessed. RESULTS A total of 52 patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia received exa-cel and were included in this prespecified interim analysis; the median follow-up was 20.4 months (range, 2.1 to 48.1). Neutrophils and platelets engrafted in each patient. Among the 35 patients with sufficient follow-up data for evaluation, transfusion independence occurred in 32 (91%; 95% confidence interval, 77 to 98; P<0.001 against the null hypothesis of a 50% response). During transfusion independence, the mean total hemoglobin level was 13.1 g per deciliter and the mean fetal hemoglobin level was 11.9 g per deciliter, and fetal hemoglobin had a pancellular distribution (≥94% of red cells). The safety profile of exa-cel was generally consistent with that of myeloablative busulfan conditioning and autologous HSPC transplantation. No deaths or cancers occurred. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with exa-cel, preceded by myeloablation, resulted in transfusion independence in 91% of patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia. (Supported by Vertex Pharmaceuticals and CRISPR Therapeutics; CLIMB THAL-111 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03655678.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Locatelli
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Peter Lang
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Donna Wall
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Roland Meisel
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Selim Corbacioglu
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Amanda M Li
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Josu de la Fuente
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Ami J Shah
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Ben Carpenter
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Janet L Kwiatkowski
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Markus Mapara
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Robert I Liem
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Maria Domenica Cappellini
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Mattia Algeri
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Antonis Kattamis
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Sujit Sheth
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Stephan Grupp
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Rupert Handgretinger
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Puja Kohli
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Daoyuan Shi
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Leorah Ross
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Yael Bobruff
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Christopher Simard
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Lanju Zhang
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Phuong Khanh Morrow
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - William E Hobbs
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
| | - Haydar Frangoul
- From IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù (F.L., M.A.) and Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (F.L.), Rome, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan (M.D.C.), and the Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro (M.A.) - all in Italy; University Children's Hospital Tübingen (R.H.), and the Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) "Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies" and the German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Tübingen, University of Tübingen (P.L.), Tübingen, the Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf (R.M.), and the University of Regensburg, Regensburg (S.C.) - all in Germany; the Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto (D.W.), and BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver (A.M.L.) - all in Canada; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital (J.F.), and University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (B.C.) - both in London; Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA (A.J.S.); Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (J.L.K., S.G.); Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University (M.M.), and Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University (S.S.) - both in New York; Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago (R.I.L.); National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens (A.K.); Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (P.K., D.S., L.R., Y.B., C.S., L.Z., W.E.H.), and CRISPR Therapeutics, Cambridge (P.K.M.) - both in Massachusetts; and Sarah Cannon Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville (H.F.)
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16
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Zhang L, Wang L, Long J, Yin Y, Patil S. Nutritional and Body Composition Changes in Paediatric β-Thalassemia Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Retrospective Study Using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. J Multidiscip Healthc 2024; 17:2203-2214. [PMID: 38751668 PMCID: PMC11094366 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s463796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This retrospective study evaluated nutritional status and body composition changes in paediatric β-thalassemia (β-TM) patients before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and explored their relationship with HSCT outcomes. Methods A cohort of 40 paediatric β-TM patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT was assessed for their nutritional status, anthropometric parameters, including body mass index (BMI), weight, and height, and body composition parameters pre-and post-HSCT, focusing on BIA measurements, including intracellular water (ICW), extracellular water (ECW), fat mass (FAT), fat-free mass (FFM), Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM), soft Lean Mass (SLM), percent body fat (PBF), Body Cell Mass (BCM), Phase angle (PA) and muscle balance pre- and post-HSCT. Post-HSCT clinical outcomes, including acute graft-vs-host disease (aGVHD), engraftment time, oral mucositis (OM), sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), and diarrhoea in relation to nutrition status after HSCT were analysed. Results After HSCT, 28.21% experienced diminished nutritional status, with 71.43% of those who were wasting before HSCT showing diminished nutritional status, significantly higher than the normal group (18.75%, P = 0.012). Anthropometric changes included significant weight reduction (87.5%, 22.15 ± 7.46 vs 20.74 ± 6.57, P < 0.001) and BMI decrease (90%, 15.19 ± 1.70 vs 14.05 ± 1.48, P < 0.001). Body composition parameters, which are FFM, SMM, SLM, ICW, ECW, BCM, and PA (18.26 ± 5.71 vs 17.27 ± 5.19, 8.68 ± 3.30 vs 7.93 ± 3.02, 17.11 ± 5.28 vs 16.06 ± 4.84, 8.19 ± 2.54 vs 7.62 ± 2.31, 5.15 ± 1.58 vs 4.94 ± 1.47, 11.74 ± 3.63 vs 10.92 ± 3.32, 4.42 ± 0.50 vs 3.90 ± 0.57, respectively, P < 0.001) analysis revealed significant decreases. No significant differences in clinical outcomes were observed based on nutritional status. Conclusion Paediatric β-TM patients undergoing HSCT exhibit significant changes in nutrition status and body composition, emphasizing the need for focused attention on malnourished children who are more prone to diminished nutritional status. Comprehensive BIA aids in understanding the impact, urging consideration for extended follow-up and larger cohorts in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyang Zhang
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiewen Long
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Yin
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sandip Patil
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, 518000, People’s Republic of China
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17
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Laurent M, Geoffroy M, Pavani G, Guiraud S. CRISPR-Based Gene Therapies: From Preclinical to Clinical Treatments. Cells 2024; 13:800. [PMID: 38786024 PMCID: PMC11119143 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100800] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein have emerged as a revolutionary gene editing tool to treat inherited disorders affecting different organ systems, such as blood and muscles. Both hematological and neuromuscular genetic disorders benefit from genome editing approaches but face different challenges in their clinical translation. The ability of CRISPR/Cas9 technologies to modify hematopoietic stem cells ex vivo has greatly accelerated the development of genetic therapies for blood disorders. In the last decade, many clinical trials were initiated and are now delivering encouraging results. The recent FDA approval of Casgevy, the first CRISPR/Cas9-based drug for severe sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia, represents a significant milestone in the field and highlights the great potential of this technology. Similar preclinical efforts are currently expanding CRISPR therapies to other hematologic disorders such as primary immunodeficiencies. In the neuromuscular field, the versatility of CRISPR/Cas9 has been instrumental for the generation of new cellular and animal models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), offering innovative platforms to speed up preclinical development of therapeutic solutions. Several corrective interventions have been proposed to genetically restore dystrophin production using the CRISPR toolbox and have demonstrated promising results in different DMD animal models. Although these advances represent a significant step forward to the clinical translation of CRISPR/Cas9 therapies to DMD, there are still many hurdles to overcome, such as in vivo delivery methods associated with high viral vector doses, together with safety and immunological concerns. Collectively, the results obtained in the hematological and neuromuscular fields emphasize the transformative impact of CRISPR/Cas9 for patients affected by these debilitating conditions. As each field suffers from different and specific challenges, the clinical translation of CRISPR therapies may progress differentially depending on the genetic disorder. Ongoing investigations and clinical trials will address risks and limitations of these therapies, including long-term efficacy, potential genotoxicity, and adverse immune reactions. This review provides insights into the diverse applications of CRISPR-based technologies in both preclinical and clinical settings for monogenic blood disorders and muscular dystrophy and compare advances in both fields while highlighting current trends, difficulties, and challenges to overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Laurent
- INTEGRARE, UMR_S951, Genethon, Inserm, Univ Evry, Université Paris-Saclay, 91190 Evry, France
| | | | - Giulia Pavani
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Simon Guiraud
- SQY Therapeutics, 78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
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18
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Hu J, Zhong Y, Xu P, Xin L, Zhu X, Jiang X, Gao W, Yang B, Chen Y. β-Thalassemia gene editing therapy: Advancements and difficulties. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38036. [PMID: 38701251 PMCID: PMC11062644 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
β-Thalassemia is the world's number 1 single-gene genetic disorder and is characterized by suppressed or impaired production of β-pearl protein chains. This results in intramedullary destruction and premature lysis of red blood cells in peripheral blood. Among them, patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia face the problem of long-term transfusion and iron chelation therapy, which leads to clinical complications and great economic stress. As gene editing technology improves, we are seeing the dawn of a cure for the disease, with its reduction of ineffective erythropoiesis and effective prolongation of survival in critically ill patients. Here, we provide an overview of β-thalassemia distribution and pathophysiology. In addition, we focus on gene therapy and gene editing advances. Nucleic acid endonuclease tools currently available for gene editing fall into 3 categories: zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR-Cas9) nucleases. This paper reviews the exploratory applications and exploration of emerging therapeutic tools based on 3 classes of nucleic acid endonucleases in the treatment of β-thalassemia diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hu
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yebing Zhong
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Pengxiang Xu
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Liuyan Xin
- Hematology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaodan Zhu
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinghui Jiang
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weifang Gao
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bin Yang
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yijian Chen
- The First Clinical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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19
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Pholngam N, Jamrus P, Viwatpinyo K, Kiatpakdee B, Vadolas J, Chaichompoo P, Ngampramuan S, Svasti S. Cognitive impairment and hippocampal neuronal damage in β-thalassaemia mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10054. [PMID: 38698053 PMCID: PMC11066061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60459-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
β-Thalassaemia is one of the most common genetic diseases worldwide. During the past few decades, life expectancy of patients has increased significantly owing to advance in medical treatments. Cognitive impairment, once has been neglected, has gradually become more documented. Cognitive impairment in β-thalassaemia patients is associated with natural history of the disease and socioeconomic factors. Herein, to determined effect of β-thalassaemia intrinsic factors, 22-month-old β-thalassaemia mouse was used as a model to assess cognitive impairment and to investigate any aberrant brain pathology in β-thalassaemia. Open field test showed that β-thalassaemia mice had decreased motor function. However, no difference of neuronal degeneration in primary motor cortex, layer 2/3 area was found. Interestingly, impaired learning and memory function accessed by a Morris water maze test was observed and correlated with a reduced number of living pyramidal neurons in hippocampus at the CA3 region in β-thalassaemia mice. Cognitive impairment in β-thalassaemia mice was significantly correlated with several intrinsic β-thalassaemic factors including iron overload, anaemia, damaged red blood cells (RBCs), phosphatidylserine (PS)-exposed RBC large extracellular vesicles (EVs) and PS-exposed medium EVs. This highlights the importance of blood transfusion and iron chelation in β-thalassaemia patients. In addition, to improve patients' quality of life, assessment of cognitive functions should become part of routine follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuttanan Pholngam
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Parinda Jamrus
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kittikun Viwatpinyo
- Research Center for Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
- Department of Medical Science, School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhonsithammarat, Thailand
| | - Benjaporn Kiatpakdee
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Jim Vadolas
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pornthip Chaichompoo
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sukonthar Ngampramuan
- Research Center for Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
| | - Saovaros Svasti
- Thalassemia Research Center, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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20
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Bizri M, Koleilat R, Akiki N, Dergham R, Mihailescu AM, Bou-Fakhredin R, Musallam KM, Taher AT. Quality of life, mood disorders, and cognitive impairment in adults with β-thalassemia. Blood Rev 2024; 65:101181. [PMID: 38341336 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2024.101181] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Advances in understanding the disease process in β-thalassemia supported development of various treatment strategies that resulted in improved survival. Improved survival, however, allowed multiple morbidities to manifest and cemented the need for frequent, lifelong treatment. This has directly impacted patients' health-related quality of life and opened the door for various psychiatric and cognitive disorders to potentially develop. In this review, we summarize available evidence on quality of life, depression and anxiety, suicidality, and cognitive impairment in adult patients with β-thalassemia while sharing our personal insights from experience in treating patients with both transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion-dependent forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Bizri
- Department of Psychiatry, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rawan Koleilat
- Department of Psychiatry, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Akiki
- Department of Haematology, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Reem Dergham
- Department of Psychiatry, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Khaled M Musallam
- Center for Research on Rare Blood Disorders (CR-RBD), Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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21
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Locatelli F, Cavazzana M, Frangoul H, Fuente JDL, Algeri M, Meisel R. Autologous gene therapy for hemoglobinopathies: From bench to patient's bedside. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1202-1218. [PMID: 38454604 PMCID: PMC11081872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.005] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a growing number of clinical trials have been initiated to evaluate gene therapy approaches for the treatment of patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD). Therapeutic modalities being assessed in these trials utilize different molecular techniques, including lentiviral vectors to add functional copies of the gene encoding the hemoglobin β subunit in defective cells and CRISPR-Cas9, transcription activator-like effector protein nuclease, and zinc finger nuclease gene editing strategies to either directly address the underlying genetic cause of disease or induce fetal hemoglobin production by gene disruption. Here, we review the mechanisms of action of these various gene addition and gene editing approaches and describe the status of clinical trials designed to evaluate the potentially for these approaches to provide one-time functional cures to patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia and SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marina Cavazzana
- Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), University of Paris, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Haydar Frangoul
- Sarah Cannon Center for Blood Cancer at The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | - Josu de la Fuente
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St Mary's Hospital, London W21NY, UK
| | - Mattia Algeri
- Department of Pediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roland Meisel
- Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
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22
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Ubaid S, Kashif M, Laiq Y, Nayak AK, Kumar V, Singh V. Targeting HIF-1α in sickle cell disease and cancer: unraveling therapeutic opportunities and risks. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:357-373. [PMID: 38861226 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2367640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIF-1α, a key player in medical science, holds immense significance in therapeutic approaches. This review delves into its complex dynamics, emphasizing the delicate balance required for its modulation. HIF-1α stands as a cornerstone in medical research, its role extending to therapeutic strategies. This review explores the intricate interplay surrounding HIF-1α, highlighting its critical involvement and the necessity for cautious modulation. AREAS COVERED In sickle cell disease (SCD), HIF-1α's potential to augment fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production and mitigate symptoms is underscored. Furthermore, its role in cancer is examined, particularly its influence on survival in hypoxic tumor microenvironments, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The discussion extends to the intricate relationship between HIF-1α modulation and cancer risks in SCD patients, emphasizing the importance of balancing therapeutic benefits and potential hazards. EXPERT OPINION Managing HIF-1α modulation in SCD patients requires a nuanced approach, considering therapeutic potential alongside associated risks, especially in exacerbating cancer risks. An evolutionary perspective adds depth, highlighting adaptations in populations adapted to low-oxygen environments and aligning cancer cell metabolism with primitive cells. The role of HIF-1α as a therapeutic target is discussed within the context of complex cancer biology and metabolism, acknowledging varied responses across diverse cancers influenced by intricate evolutionary adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Ubaid
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Mohammad Kashif
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Yusra Laiq
- Department of Biotechnology, Era University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Vipin Kumar
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
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23
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Dimitrievska M, Bansal D, Vitale M, Strouboulis J, Miccio A, Nicolaides KH, El Hoss S, Shangaris P, Jacków-Malinowska J. Revolutionising healing: Gene Editing's breakthrough against sickle cell disease. Blood Rev 2024; 65:101185. [PMID: 38493007 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2024.101185] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in gene editing illuminate new potential therapeutic approaches for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a debilitating monogenic disorder caused by a point mutation in the β-globin gene. Despite the availability of several FDA-approved medications for symptomatic relief, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains the sole curative option, underscoring a persistent need for novel treatments. This review delves into the growing field of gene editing, particularly the extensive research focused on curing haemoglobinopathies like SCD. We examine the use of techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 and homology-directed repair, base editing, and prime editing to either correct the pathogenic variant into a non-pathogenic or wild-type one or augment fetal haemoglobin (HbF) production. The article elucidates ways to optimize these tools for efficacious gene editing with minimal off-target effects and offers insights into their effective delivery into cells. Furthermore, we explore clinical trials involving alternative SCD treatment strategies, such as LentiGlobin therapy and autologous HSCT, distilling the current findings. This review consolidates vital information for the clinical translation of gene editing for SCD, providing strategic insights for investigators eager to further the development of gene editing for SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Dimitrievska
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Dravie Bansal
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Marta Vitale
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - John Strouboulis
- Red Cell Hematology Lab, Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Annarita Miccio
- Laboratory of Chromatin and Gene Regulation During Development, Imagine Institute, INSERM UMR1163, Paris 75015, France
| | - Kypros H Nicolaides
- Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom; Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sara El Hoss
- Red Cell Hematology Lab, Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Panicos Shangaris
- Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom; Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Peter Gorer Department of Immunobiology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
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24
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Coates TD. Higher hemoglobin is better in thalassemia. Blood 2024; 143:842-844. [PMID: 38451517 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023023294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
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25
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Corbacioglu S, Frangoul H, Locatelli F, Hobbs W, Walters M. Defining curative endpoints for transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia in the era of gene therapy and gene editing. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:422-429. [PMID: 38100154 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a monogenic disease that results in varying degrees of anemia. In the most severe form, known as transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT), the clinical hallmarks are ineffective erythropoiesis and a requirement of regular, life-long red blood cell transfusions, with the development of secondary clinical complications such as iron overload, end-organ damage, and a risk of early mortality. With the exception of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, current treatments for TDT address disease symptoms and not the underlying cause of disease. Recently, a growing number of gene addition and gene editing-based treatments for patients with TDT with the potential to provide a one-time functional cure have entered clinical trials. A key challenge in the design and evaluation of these trials is selecting endpoints to evaluate if these novel genetic therapies have a curative versus an ameliorative effect. Here, we present an overview of the pathophysiology of TDT, review emerging gene addition or gene editing therapeutic approaches for TDT currently in clinical trials, and identify a series of endpoints that can quantify therapeutic effects, including a curative outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Haydar Frangoul
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute and the Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Franco Locatelli
- IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino, Gesù Rome, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - William Hobbs
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark Walters
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, Oakland, California, USA
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26
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Musallam KM, Cappellini MD, Coates TD, Kuo KHM, Al-Samkari H, Sheth S, Viprakasit V, Taher AT. Αlpha-thalassemia: A practical overview. Blood Rev 2024; 64:101165. [PMID: 38182489 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101165] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
α-Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder characterized by decreased synthesis of α-globin chains that results in an imbalance of α and β globin and thus varying degrees of ineffective erythropoiesis, decreased red blood cell (RBC) survival, chronic hemolytic anemia, and subsequent comorbidities. Clinical presentation varies depending on the genotype, ranging from a silent or mild carrier state to severe, transfusion-dependent or lethal disease. Management of patients with α-thalassemia is primarily supportive, addressing either symptoms (eg, RBC transfusions for anemia), complications of the disease, or its transfusion-dependence (eg, chelation therapy for iron overload). Several novel therapies are also in development, including curative gene manipulation techniques and disease modifying agents that target ineffective erythropoiesis and chronic hemolytic anemia. This review of α-thalassemia and its various manifestations provides practical information for clinicians who practice beyond those regions where it is found with high frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled M Musallam
- Center for Research on Rare Blood Disorders (CR-RBD), Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - M Domenica Cappellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community, University of Milan, Ca' Granda Foundation IRCCS Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas D Coates
- Hematology Section, Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kevin H M Kuo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hanny Al-Samkari
- Center for Hematology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sujit Sheth
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Department of Pediatrics & Thalassemia Center, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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27
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Mekelenkamp H, de Vries M, Saalmink I, Nur E, Kerkhoffs JL, Heijboer H, Cnossen M, Lankester A, Smiers F. Hoping for a normal life: Decision-making on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by patients with a hemoglobinopathy and their caregivers. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30808. [PMID: 38082534 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To provide insight into the perspectives of children and young adults with transfusion-dependent thalassemia and sickle cell disease and their caregivers regarding the decision for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). PROCEDURE A qualitative longitudinal multicenter study. Data collection consisted of 40 audio-recorded conversations between physicians and families and 77 interviews with patients and/or caregivers related to 27 unique cases, collected at different time points throughout the decision-making process. RESULTS Conversations and interviews revealed "hoping for a normal life" as an overarching theme, consisting of four main topics: (i) "Building a frame of reference" refers to a process where patients or families try to obtain comprehensive information on HSCT and translate this to their situation to decide. (ii) "Balancing between loss and benefit" reports the process of considering the advantages and disadvantages of continuing with supportive care to treat their disease versus choosing HSCT. (iii) "Experiencing the impact of HSCT" describes the impactfull experience of the HSCT period by those who chose HSCT. (iv) "Balancing again" refers to reflecting on the decision made. CONCLUSIONS The hope for a normal life guided the decision-making process, described as a constant balance between the impact of the disease and HSCT. A structured approach to explore patients' and caregivers' perspectives on HSCT decision-making is needed, where specifically discussing the impact of the disease and hope for a normal life need to be integrated in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilda Mekelenkamp
- Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Law, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martine de Vries
- Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Law, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ineke Saalmink
- Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Erfan Nur
- Department of Hematology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Blood Cell Research, Sanquin Research, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Harriët Heijboer
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjon Cnossen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Lankester
- Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Smiers
- Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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28
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Al-Allawi N, Atroshi SD, Sadullah RK, Eissa AA, Kriegshäuser G, Al-Zebari S, Qadir S, Khalil D, Oberkanins C. A Population-Oriented Genetic Scoring System to Predict Phenotype: A Pathway to Personalized Medicine in Iraqis With β-Thalassemia. Hemoglobin 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38390736 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2024.2319733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
To assess the roles of genetic modifiers in Iraqi β-thalassemia patients, and determine whether a genotype-based scoring system could be used to predict phenotype, a total of 224 Iraqi patients with molecularly characterized homozygous or compound heterozygous β-thalassemia were further investigated for α-thalassemia deletions as well as five polymorphisms namely: rs7482144 C > T at HBG2, rs1427407 G > T and rs10189857 A > G at BCL11A, and rs28384513 A > C and rs9399137 T > C at HMIP. The enrolled patients had a median age of 14 years, with 96 males and 128 females. They included 144 thalassemia major, and 80 thalassemia intermedia patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a model including sex and four of these genetic modifiers, namely: β+ alleles, HBG2 rs7482144, α-thalassemia deletions, and BCL11A rs1427407 could significantly predict phenotype (major versus intermedia) with an overall accuracy of 83.9%. Furthermore, a log odds genetic score based on these significant predictors had a highly significant area under curve of 0.917 (95% CI 0.882-0.953). This study underscores the notion that genetic scoring systems should be tailored to populations in question, since genetic modifiers (and/or their relative weight) vary between populations. The population-oriented genetic scoring system created by the current study to predict β-thalassemia phenotype among Iraqis may pave the way to personalized medicine in this patient's group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Al-Allawi
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Iraq
| | - Sulav D Atroshi
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Iraq
| | - Regir K Sadullah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Health and Medical Technology, Duhok Polytechnic University, Shekhan, Iraq
| | | | | | - Shaima Al-Zebari
- Research Center, College of Science, University of Duhok, Duhok, Iraq
| | - Shatha Qadir
- Department of Hematology, Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, Iraq
| | - Dilan Khalil
- Research Center, College of Science, University of Duhok, Duhok, Iraq
| | - Christian Oberkanins
- Department of Research and Development, ViennaLab Diagnostics GmbH, Vienna, Austria
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29
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Klonizakis P, Roy N, Papatsouma I, Mainou M, Christodoulou I, Pantelidou D, Kokkota S, Diamantidis M, Kourakli A, Lazaris V, Andriopoulos D, Tsapas A, Klaassen RJ, Vlachaki E. A Cross-Sectional, Multicentric, Disease-Specific, Health-Related Quality of Life Study in Greek Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia Patients. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:524. [PMID: 38470634 PMCID: PMC10931193 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12050524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in thalassemia offers a holistic approach to the disease and facilitates better communication between physicians and patients. This study aimed to evaluate the HRQoL of transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) patients in Greece. This was a multicentric, cross-sectional study conducted in 2017 involving 283 adult TDT patients. All participants completed a set of two QoL questionnaires, the generic SF-36v2 and the disease-specific TranQol. Demographic and clinical characteristics were used to predefine patient subgroups. Significant factors identified in the univariate analysis were entered into a multivariate analysis to assess their effect on HRQoL. The SF-36 scores of TDT patients were consistently lower compared to the general population in Greece. The mean summary score of TranQol was relatively high (71 ± 14%), exceeding levels observed in national surveys in other countries. Employment emerged as the most significant independent factor associated with better HRQoL, whereas age had the most significant negative effect. This study represents the first comprehensive QoL assessment of a representative sample of the TDT population in Greece. The implementation of TranQol allowed for the quantification of HRQoL in Greece, establishing a baseline for future follow-up, and identifying more vulnerable patient subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippos Klonizakis
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.M.); (I.C.); (E.V.)
| | - Noémi Roy
- Department of Haematology, Oxford University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 0AG, UK;
| | - Ioanna Papatsouma
- Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BP, UK;
| | - Maria Mainou
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.M.); (I.C.); (E.V.)
| | - Ioanna Christodoulou
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.M.); (I.C.); (E.V.)
| | - Despina Pantelidou
- Thalassemia Unit, AHEPA General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Smaro Kokkota
- Thalassemia Unit, AHEPA General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (D.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Michael Diamantidis
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease Unit, General Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece;
| | - Alexandra Kourakli
- Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies Center, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (A.K.); (V.L.)
| | - Vasileios Lazaris
- Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies Center, University Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece; (A.K.); (V.L.)
| | - Dimitrios Andriopoulos
- Haemato-Oncology Department, Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, UK;
| | - Apostolos Tsapas
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Robert J. Klaassen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Ottawa, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada;
| | - Efthymia Vlachaki
- Adults Thalassemia Unit-2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University, Hippokration General Hospital Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.M.); (I.C.); (E.V.)
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30
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Yang X, Deng X, Wu M, Chen SW, Jiang M, Long L, Chen BT. Neuroimaging features of primary central nervous system post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder following hematopoietic stem cell transplant in patients with β-thalassemia: a case series and review of literature. Insights Imaging 2024; 15:40. [PMID: 38353902 PMCID: PMC10866827 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-024-01605-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Primary central nervous system post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PCNS-PTLD) is a rare but serious complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with severe β-thalassemia. This study aimed to assess the clinical presentation, pathological characteristics, neuroimaging findings, and treatment strategies in patients with β-thalassemia who developed PCNS-PTLD and to compare a case series from our transplant center to reported cases from literature. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed our hospital database and identified four cases of pathologically confirmed PCNS-PTLD without a history of systemic PTLD in patients with severe β-thalassemia after HSCT. We also performed a relevant literature review on PCNS-PTLD. RESULTS The median time from transplantation to diagnosis of PCNS-PTLD was 5.5 months. Intracerebral lesions were usually multiple involving both supratentorial and infratentorial regions with homogeneous or rim enhancement. All patients had pathologically confirmed PCNS-PTLD with three patients having diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and the fourth patient having plasmacytic hyperplasia. There was low response to treatment with a median survival of 83 days. CONCLUSION PCNS-PTLD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with β-thalassemia who had an intracranial lesion on neuroimaging after HSCT. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT This case series with a comprehensive review of neuroimaging and clinical characteristics of children with primary central nervous system post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder should advance our understanding and improve management of this rare yet severe complication following transplant for β-thalassemia. KEY POINTS • We assessed clinical presentation, treatment strategies, and neuroimaging characteristics of PCNS-PTLD in patients with β-thalassemia after transplantation. • Patients with β-thalassemia may have post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder presenting as brain lesions on neuroimaging. • Neuroimaging findings of the brain lesions are helpful for prompt diagnosis and proper management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqing Yang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Deng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiqing Wu
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Sean W Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1500 E, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Muliang Jiang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liling Long
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bihong T Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1500 E, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
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An R, Avanaki A, Thota P, Nemade S, Mehta A, Gurkan UA. Point-of-Care Diagnostic Test for Beta-Thalassemia. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:83. [PMID: 38392002 PMCID: PMC10886532 DOI: 10.3390/bios14020083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Hemoglobin (Hb) disorders are among the most common monogenic diseases affecting nearly 7% of the world population. Among various Hb disorders, approximately 1.5% of the world population carries β-thalassemia (β-Thal), affecting 40,000 newborns every year. Early screening and a timely diagnosis are essential for β-thalassemia patients for the prevention and management of later clinical complications. However, in Africa, Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where β-thalassemia is most prevalent, the diagnosis and screening for β-thalassemia are still challenging due to the cost and logistical burden of laboratory diagnostic tests. Here, we present Gazelle, which is a paper-based microchip electrophoresis platform that enables the first point-of-care diagnostic test for β-thalassemia. We evaluated the accuracy of Gazelle for the β-Thal screening across 372 subjects in the age range of 4-63 years at Apple Diagnostics lab in Mumbai, India. Additionally, 30 blood samples were prepared to mimic β-Thal intermediate and β-Thal major samples. Gazelle-detected levels of Hb A, Hb F, and Hb A2 demonstrated high levels of correlation with the results reported through laboratory gold standard high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), yielding a Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.99. This ability to obtain rapid and accurate results suggests that Gazelle may be suitable for the large-scale screening and diagnosis of β-Thal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran An
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77004, USA
| | | | | | - Sai Nemade
- Plasma Lab, Jalgaon 425001, India (A.M.)
- Apple Diagnostics Lab, Ghatkopar, Mumbai 400077, India
| | - Amrish Mehta
- Plasma Lab, Jalgaon 425001, India (A.M.)
- Apple Diagnostics Lab, Ghatkopar, Mumbai 400077, India
| | - Umut A. Gurkan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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32
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Njeim R, Naouss B, Bou-Fakhredin R, Haddad A, Taher A. Unmet needs in β-thalassemia and the evolving treatment landscape. Transfus Clin Biol 2024; 31:48-55. [PMID: 38128605 DOI: 10.1016/j.tracli.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
β-thalassemias are genetic disorders causing an imbalance in hemoglobin production, leading to varying degrees of anemia, with two clinical phenotypes: transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT). Red blood cell transfusions and iron chelation therapy are the conventional treatment options for the management of β-thalassemia. Currently available conventional therapies in thalassemia have many challenges and limitations. Accordingly, multiple novel therapeutic approaches are currently being developed for the treatment of β-thalassemias. These strategies can be classified into three categories based on their efforts to address different aspects of the underlying pathophysiology of β-thalassemia: correction of the α/β globin chain imbalance, addressing ineffective erythropoiesis, and targeting iron dysregulation. Managing β- thalassemia presents challenges due to the many complications that can manifest, limited access and availability of blood products, and lack of compliance/adherence to treatment. Novel therapies targeting ineffective erythropoiesis and thus improving anemia and reducing the need for chronic blood transfusions seem promising. However, the complex nature of the disease itself requires personalized treatment plans for each patient. Collaborations and partnerships between thalassemia centers can also help share knowledge and resources, particularly in regions with higher prevalence and limited resources. This review will explore the different conventional treatment modalities available today for the management of β-thalassemia, discuss the unmet needs and challenges associated with them in addition to exploring the role of some novel therapeutic agents in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Njeim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Bilal Naouss
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Antoine Haddad
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Blood Bank, Sacré-Coeur Hospital, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Taher
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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33
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Singha A, Mukhopadhyay P, Ghosh S. Spectrum of Adrenal Dysfunction in Hemoglobin E/Beta Thalassemia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e562-e568. [PMID: 37772731 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad579] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adrenal insufficiency (AI) in hemoglobin E (HbE)/beta thalassemia, including evaluation of mineralocorticoid axis, had not been studied. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES In this study, we attempted to evaluate the prevalence of AI in HbE/beta thalassemia and wanted to determine if the prevalence of AI varied according to severity of HbE/beta thalassemia and transfusion requirements. METHODS In this observational, cross-sectional study, 104 patients with HbE/beta thalassemia were evaluated. Among them, 57 and 47 were transfusion dependent and non-transfusion dependent. According to Mahidol criteria, patients were classified into mild (n = 39), moderate (n = 39), and severe (n = 26) disease. Early morning (8 Am) serum cortisol, plasma ACTH, and plasma aldosterone, renin were measured. Patients with baseline cortisol of 5 to 18 μg/dL underwent both 1 μg and 250 μg short Synacthen test. According to these results, patients were classified as having either normal, subclinical, or overt (primary/secondary) adrenal dysfunction. RESULTS Adrenal insufficiency was found in 41% (n = 43). Among them 83.7% (n = 34) had primary AI and 16.3% (n = 9) had secondary AI. Thirty-three patients (31%) with normal or elevated ACTH and with low or normal aldosterone with high renin were diagnosed as having subclinical AI. There was no difference in prevalence of AI between transfusion dependent and non-transfusion dependent (P = .56) nor was there was any difference in prevalence of AI according to disease severity (P = .52). CONCLUSION Adrenal insufficiency is common in HbE/beta thalassemia and is independent of transfusion dependency and disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arijit Singha
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, 244 AJC Bose Road, Kolkata, 700020, India
| | - Pradip Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, 244 AJC Bose Road, Kolkata, 700020, India
| | - Sujoy Ghosh
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, 244 AJC Bose Road, Kolkata, 700020, India
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El-Beshlawy A, Dewedar H, Hindawi S, Alkindi S, Tantawy AA, Yassin MA, Taher AT. Management of transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT): Expert insights and practical overview from the Middle East. Blood Rev 2024; 63:101138. [PMID: 37867006 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101138] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
β-Thalassemia is one of the most common monogenetic diseases worldwide, with a particularly high prevalence in the Middle East region. As such, we have developed long-standing experience with disease management and devising solutions to address challenges attributed to resource limitations. The region has also participated in the majority of clinical trials and development programs of iron chelators and more novel ineffective erythropoiesis-targeted therapy. In this review, we provide a practical overview of management for patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia, primarily driven by such experiences, with the aim of transferring knowledge to colleagues in other regions facing similar challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal El-Beshlawy
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hany Dewedar
- Thalassemia Center, Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salwa Hindawi
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salam Alkindi
- Department of Hematology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Azza A Tantawy
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Yassin
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, National Centre for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ali T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Tang H, Zhang N, Deng J, Zhou K. Changing trends in the prevalence of heart failure impairment with Thalassemias over three decades. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14098. [PMID: 37724975 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the prevalence trend and contributing factors of heart failure (HF) impairment with thalassemias at global, regional and national levels. METHODS Data on HF impairment with thalassemias was collected from the Global Burden of Disease study. The absolute number and prevalence of the disease were systematically collected for each year, and the estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) in HF impairment were calculated by gender, region and country to measure temporal trends. RESULTS Thalassemias have caused a significant global burden since 1990, and the case number of HF related to thalassemias has been steadily increasing. The highest case number of HF impairments with thalassemias is observed in China (7739 cases) and the highest prevalence is in Pakistan (1.61 per 100,000) currently. Besides, the middle sociodemographic index (SDI) region carries the highest burden of comorbid disease yet exhibits the most evident trend for improvement across the five regions (EAPC = -.98). The burden of thalassemias and comorbid HF is generally higher in males than females with the gender gap growing chasm in the future. Besides, the hotspots of HF impairment with thalassemias have gradually shifted to low SDI regions, though middle SDI regions still hold a relatively higher prevalence (.37 per 100,000) across different regions. CONCLUSIONS The burden of thalassemias and accompanying HF, as well as their temporal trends, vary greatly across countries and regions. These findings can improve understanding of these conditions and guide policymakers in developing appropriate policies to address disparities between countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Tang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianchuan Deng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kang Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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36
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Waye JS, Hanna M, Hohenadel BA, Nakamura L, Walker L, Eng B, Nfonsam LE. β 0-Thalassemia Caused by a Novel Nonsense Mutation [ HBB:c.199A > T]. Hemoglobin 2024; 48:69-70. [PMID: 38425097 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2024.2322518] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
We report two hemoglobinopathy cases involving a novel β-thalassemia (β-thal) nonsense mutation, HBB:c.199A > T. One patient had Hb S/β-thal, and a second unrelated patient had Hb D-Punjab/β-thal. The HBB:c.199A > T mutation introduces a premature termination codon at amino acid codon 66 (AAA→TAA) in exon 2, resulting in typical high Hb A2 β0-thal.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Waye
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meredith Hanna
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Betty-Ann Hohenadel
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa Nakamura
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lynda Walker
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barry Eng
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Landry E Nfonsam
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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37
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Yang K, Liu X, Peng W, Hua F, Li L, Chen K, Zhang J, Luo S, Li W, Ding Y, Chen J, Xiao J. Effects of Thalidomide on Erythropoiesis and Iron Homeostasis in Transfusion-Dependent β-Thalassemia. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2024; 16:e2024001. [PMID: 38223482 PMCID: PMC10786143 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2024.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Thalidomide is a therapeutic option for patients with β-thalassemia by increasing fetal hemoglobin and thereby reducing the requirement for blood transfusions. However, information on changes in erythropoiesis and iron homeostasis during thalidomide treatment is lacking. This study investigated the effects of thalidomide treatment on hematologic, erythropoietic, and ironstatus parameters in 22 patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT). Thalidomide significantly improved anemia endpoints, including increases in hemoglobin (p<0.001), red blood cells (p<0.001), and hematocrit (p<0.001), as well as reducing erythropoietin levels (p=0.033) and ameliorating erythropoiesis. Thalidomide treatment significantly reduced serum iron levels (p=0.018) and transferrin saturation (p=0.039) and increased serum transferrin levels (p=0.030). Thalidomide had no observed effect on serum ferritin or hepcidin, but changes in hepcidin (r=0.439, p=0.041) and serum iron (r=-0.536, p=0.010) were significantly correlated with hemoglobin increment. This comprehensive study indicates that thalidomide treatment can ameliorate erythropoiesis and iron homeostasis in patients with TDT, thus supporting the effectiveness of this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Wei Peng
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Fang Hua
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Lan Li
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Shan Luo
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Wanting Li
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Yuxi Ding
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Hematology, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
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Nai A, Cordero-Sanchez C, Tanzi E, Pagani A, Silvestri L, Di Modica SM. Cellular and animal models for the investigation of β-thalassemia. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2024; 104:102761. [PMID: 37271682 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2023.102761] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
β-Thalassemia is a genetic form of anemia due to mutations in the β-globin gene, that leads to ineffective and extramedullary erythropoiesis, abnormal red blood cells and secondary iron-overload. The severity of the disease ranges from mild to lethal anemia based on the residual levels of globins production. Despite being a monogenic disorder, the pathophysiology of β-thalassemia is multifactorial, with different players contributing to the severity of anemia and secondary complications. As a result, the identification of effective therapeutic strategies is complex, and the treatment of patients is still suboptimal. For these reasons, several models have been developed in the last decades to provide experimental tools for the study of the disease, including erythroid cell lines, cultures of primary erythroid cells and transgenic animals. Years of research enabled the optimization of these models and led to decipher the mechanisms responsible for globins deregulation and ineffective erythropoiesis in thalassemia, to unravel the role of iron homeostasis in the disease and to identify and validate novel therapeutic targets and agents. Examples of successful outcomes of these analyses include iron restricting agents, currently tested in the clinics, several gene therapy vectors, one of which was recently approved for the treatment of most severe patients, and a promising gene editing strategy, that has been shown to be effective in a clinical trial. This review provides an overview of the available models, discusses pros and cons, and the key findings obtained from their study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Nai
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 58, Milan, Italy.
| | - Celia Cordero-Sanchez
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Tanzi
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Pagani
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Silvestri
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 58, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Maria Di Modica
- Regulation of Iron Metabolism Unit, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
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Wu SM, Li C, Huang SR, Jiang F, Li DZ. A 6-Year Follow-up of a Chinese Child with Homozygous β 0-Thalaasemia and a Heterozygous KLF1 Mutation. Hemoglobin 2024; 48:60-62. [PMID: 38314576 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2024.2310804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Patients with the genotype of β0/β0 for β-thalassemia (β-thal) usually behave as β-thal major (β-TM) phenotype which is transfusion-dependent. The pathophysiology of β-thal is the imbalance between α/β-globin chains. The degree of α/β-globin imbalance can be reduced by the more effective synthesis of γ-globin chains, and increased Hb F levels, modifying clinical severity of β-TM. We report a Chinese child who had homozygous β0-thal and a heterozygous KLF1 mutation. The patient had a moderate anemia since 6 months old, keeping a baseline Hb value of 8.0-9.0 g/dL. She had normal development except for a short stature (3rd percentile) until 6 years old, when splenomegaly and facial bone deformities occurred. Although genetic alteration of KLF1 expression in β0/β0 patients can result in some degree of disease alleviation, our case shows that it is insufficient to ameliorate satisfactorily the presentation. This point should be borne in mind for physicians who provide the genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis to at-risk families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Min Wu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chan Li
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Su-Ran Huang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Tenth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Zhi Li
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
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Gasparello J, Verona M, Chilin A, Gambari R, Marzaro G. Assessing the interaction between hemoglobin and the receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein through MARTINI coarse-grained molecular dynamics. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127088. [PMID: 37774812 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127088] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of different coronavirus-related diseases in the 2000's (SARS, MERS, and Covid-19) warrants the need of a complete understanding of the pathological, biological, and biochemical behavior of this class of pathogens. Great attention has been paid to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, and its interaction with the human ACE2 has been thoroughly investigated. Recent findings suggested that the SARS-CoV-2 components may interact with different human proteins, and hemoglobin has very recently been demonstrated as a potential target for the Spike protein. Here we have investigated the interaction between either adult or fetal hemoglobin and the receptor binding domain of the Spike protein at molecular level through advanced molecular dynamics techniques and proposed rational binding modes and energy estimations. Our results agree with biochemical data previously reported in literature. We also demonstrated that co-incubation of pulmonary epithelial cells with hemoglobin strongly reduces the pro-inflammatory effects exerted by the concomitant administration of Spike protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Verona
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35313 Padova, Italy
| | - Adriana Chilin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35313 Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, via Marzolo 5, 35313 Padova, Italy.
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Kuo KH. Pyruvate kinase activators: targeting red cell metabolism in thalassemia. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2023; 2023:114-120. [PMID: 38066911 PMCID: PMC10727068 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2023000468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Thalassemia is an inherited red blood cell disorder whereby the qualitative and/or quantitative imbalance in α- to β-globin ratio results in hemolysis and ineffective erythropoiesis. Oxidative stress, from the precipitated excess globin and free iron, is a major factor that drives hemolysis and ineffective erythropoiesis. Pyruvate kinase activity and adenosine triphosphate availability are reduced due to the overwhelmed cellular antioxidant system from the excessive oxidative stress. Mitapivat, a pyruvate kinase activator in development as a treatment for thalassemia, was shown to increase hemoglobin and reduce hemolysis in a small phase 2 single-arm trial of patients with α- and β-thalassemia. The ongoing phase 3 studies with mitapivat and the phase 2 study with etavopivat will examine the role of pyruvate kinase activators as disease modifying agents in thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin H.M. Kuo
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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42
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Zeng S, Lei S, Qu C, Wang Y, Teng S, Huang P. CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing in therapeutic strategies for beta-thalassemia. Hum Genet 2023; 142:1677-1703. [PMID: 37878144 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02610-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Beta-thalassemia (β-thalassemia) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by point mutations, insertions, and deletions in the HBB gene cluster, resulting in the underproduction of β-globin chains. The most severe type may demonstrate complications including massive hepatosplenomegaly, bone deformities, and severe growth retardation in children. Treatments for β-thalassemia include blood transfusion, splenectomy, and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, long-term blood transfusions require regular iron removal therapy. For allogeneic HSCT, human lymphocyte antigen (HLA)-matched donors are rarely available, and acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) may occur after the transplantation. Thus, these conventional treatments are facing significant challenges. In recent years, with the advent and advancement of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) gene editing technology, precise genome editing has achieved encouraging successes in basic and clinical studies for treating various genetic disorders, including β-thalassemia. Target gene-edited autogeneic HSCT helps patients avoid graft rejection and GVHD, making it a promising curative therapy for transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT). In this review, we introduce the development and mechanisms of CRISPR/Cas9. Recent advances on feasible strategies of CRISPR/Cas9 targeting three globin genes (HBB, HBG, and HBA) and targeting cell selections for β-thalassemia therapy are highlighted. Current CRISPR-based clinical trials in the treatment of β-thalassemia are summarized, which are focused on γ-globin reactivation and fetal hemoglobin reproduction in hematopoietic stem cells. Lastly, the applications of other promising CRISPR-based technologies, such as base editing and prime editing, in treating β-thalassemia and the limitations of the CRISPR/Cas system in therapeutic applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujun Zeng
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangyin Lei
- The Second Norman Bethune Clinical College of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Qu
- The First Norman Bethune Clinical College of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wang
- The Second Norman Bethune Clinical College of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuzhi Teng
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China.
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43
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Wangi K, Birriel B, Smith C. Psychosocial burden in transfusion dependent beta-thalassemia patients and its impact on the quality of life and the problem of dignity. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:1217-1219. [PMID: 37250810 PMCID: PMC10209453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-thalassemia major is a genetic blood disorder that impacts hemoglobin production with several symptoms that decrease quality of life in patients. Blood transfusions may help them to regulate their hemoglobin needs, though this is a lifelong intervention. Struggling with dependent blood transfusion status impacts patients greatly including their bio, psycho, social, and spiritual health, potentially raising a bioethical issue related to human dignity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolus Wangi
- Ross & Carol Nese College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, 307 Nursing Science Building, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Barbara Birriel
- Nursing and Bioethics, Ross & Carol Nese College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Colin Smith
- Department of Philosophy, College of Liberal Arts, Pennsylvania State University, 234 Sparks Building, University Park, PA, USA
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44
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Hodroj MH, Akiki N, Bou-Fakhredin R, Taher AT. Beta-thalassemia: is cure still a dream? Minerva Med 2023; 114:850-860. [PMID: 37534831 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.23.08501-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a monogenic disorder characterized by decreased hemoglobin production, resulting in chronic anemia. There are several factors affecting the clinical presentation of patients with β-thalassemia, and several complications such as iron overload or ineffective erythropoiesis have been linked to this disease. Until nowadays, several conservative therapies namely blood transfusions, iron chelation, and the FDA-approved drug Luspatercept have been adopted alongside other debatable permanent cures. Other clinical trials are being conducted to develop better and safer management techniques for these patients. This review will discuss the different treatment strategies of β-thalassemia including novel therapies, besides all possible curative therapies that are being developed for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Hodroj
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Akiki
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ali T Taher
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon -
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45
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Denton CC, Vodala S, Veluswamy S, Hofstra TC, Coates TD, Wood JC. Splenic iron decreases without change in volume or liver parameters during luspatercept therapy. Blood 2023; 142:1932-1934. [PMID: 37704579 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023021839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Splenic iron decreased whereas liver iron was stable during luspatercept therapy in some individuals with thalassemia. This suggests a reduction of ineffective erythropoiesis changes the organ distribution of iron and demonstrates that liver iron concentration alone may not accurately reflect total body iron content. This article describes data from subjects enrolled in BELIEVE (NCT02604433) and BEYOND (NCT03342404).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher C Denton
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Saranya Veluswamy
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Thomas C Hofstra
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Thomas D Coates
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - John C Wood
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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46
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Zhang W, Han X, Deng J, Zhou R, Du X, Wu C, Li M. Two Novel α-Thalassemia Mutations CD 39 -C [Thr > Pro] and CD 109 ACC > CCC [Thr > Pro] Identified in Two Chinese Families: A Case Report. Hemoglobin 2023; 47:172-179. [PMID: 37818638 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2023.2263365] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
We reported the identification of two rare α-thalassemia silent carriers with novel HBA1 mutations of CD 39 -C [Thr > Pro] (HBA1: c.114del; p.Thr39Profs*11) and CD 109 ACC > CCC [Thr > Pro] (HBA1: c.325A > C; p. Thr109Pro), respectively. The two probands were pregnant women diagnosed with mild hypochromic anemia or microcytic hypochromic anemia by routine blood tests. They started iron therapy before taking differential diagnosis from iron deficiency anemia. After wait and watch approach, they both accepted thalassemia genetic screening, which identified CD 39 -C [Thr > Pro] and CD 109 ACC > CCC [Thr > Pro], respectively. Due to inappropriate iron therapy, worse anemia and iron overload were noticed in the first proband, but no obvious side effect was found in both probands. Functional analysis showed that, relative to the wild type, CD 39 -C [Thr > Pro] considerably reduced the expression of the HBA1 protein while CD 109 ACC > CCC [Thr > Pro] only had a minor impact. Our study highlighted the importance of gestational thalassemia screening based on next-generation sequencing for identifying novel rare thalassemia variants and increased our understanding about the relationship between genotype and phenotype of α-thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Zhang
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen, China
- Clin Lab, BGI Genomics, Wuhan, China
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiaoqiang Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jie Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen, China
- Clin Lab, BGI Genomics, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyun Du
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen, China
- Clin Lab, BGI Genomics, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Wu
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen, China
- Clin Lab, BGI Genomics, Wuhan, China
| | - Mingqun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
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47
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Willimann R, Chougar C, Wolfe LC, Blanc L, Lipton JM. Defects in Bone and Bone Marrow in Inherited Anemias: the Chicken or the Egg. Curr Osteoporos Rep 2023; 21:527-539. [PMID: 37436584 DOI: 10.1007/s11914-023-00809-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recently, there has been an increasing number of studies on the crosstalk between the bone and the bone marrow and how it pertains to anemia. Here, we discuss four heritable clinical syndromes contrasting those in which anemia affects bone growth and development, with those in which abnormal bone development results in anemia, highlighting the multifaceted interactions between skeletal development and hematopoiesis. RECENT FINDINGS Anemia results from both inherited and acquired disorders caused by either impaired production or premature destruction of red blood cells or blood loss. The downstream effects on bone development and growth in patients with anemia often constitute an important part of their clinical condition. We will discuss the interdependence of abnormal bone development and growth and hematopoietic abnormalities, with a focus on the erythroid lineage. To illustrate those points, we selected four heritable anemias that arise from either defective hematopoiesis impacting the skeletal system (the hemoglobinopathies β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease) versus defective osteogenesis resulting in impaired hematopoiesis (osteopetrosis). Finally, we will discuss recent findings in Diamond Blackfan anemia, an intrinsic disorder of both the erythron and the bone. By focusing on four representative hereditary hematopoietic disorders, this complex relationship between bone and blood should lead to new areas of research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Willimann
- Division of Hematology Oncology and Cellular Therapy, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, 11040, USA
| | - Christina Chougar
- Division of Hematology Oncology and Cellular Therapy, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, 11040, USA
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence C Wolfe
- Division of Hematology Oncology and Cellular Therapy, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, 11040, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Lionel Blanc
- Division of Hematology Oncology and Cellular Therapy, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, 11040, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Lipton
- Division of Hematology Oncology and Cellular Therapy, Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, 269-01 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY, 11040, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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48
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Roccotelli D, Grande D, Cicco G, Palma A, Longo MC, Albano F, Vitucci A, Musto P. Real-life experience with luspatercept in transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia. Ann Hematol 2023; 102:2965-2967. [PMID: 37498329 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-023-05381-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Roccotelli
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), "Aldo Moro" University School of Medicine, Bari, Italy.
| | - Domenica Grande
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), "Aldo Moro" University School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Gerolamo Cicco
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), "Aldo Moro" University School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Palma
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Thalassemias and Hemoglobinopathies (CERIRETE), AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria C Longo
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Thalassemias and Hemoglobinopathies (CERIRETE), AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Albano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), "Aldo Moro" University School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
| | - Angelantonio Vitucci
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Thalassemias and Hemoglobinopathies (CERIRETE), AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Musto
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), "Aldo Moro" University School of Medicine, Bari, Italy
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
- Regional Reference Center for Thalassemias and Hemoglobinopathies (CERIRETE), AOUC Policlinico, Bari, Italy
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49
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Mulas O, Efficace F, Orofino MG, Piroddi A, Piras E, Vacca A, Barella S, Costa A, Giesinger JM, La Nasa G, Caocci G. Health-Related Quality-of-Life Profile of Pediatric Patients with β Thalassemia after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6047. [PMID: 37762987 PMCID: PMC10532003 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12186047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Matched hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a feasible and curative treatment in pediatric patients with beta thalassemia major (β-TM). However, little data are available regarding patients and their parents' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after the procedure. As such, we investigated the HRQoL of pediatric patients with β-TM after HSCT compared to that of patients treated with blood transfusions and iron chelation. The health-related quality of life of 43 β-TM pediatric patients and 43 parents were evaluated using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). A total of 25 patients underwent HSCT: 15 from a sibling and 10 from an HLA-matched donor. The median follow-up time from HSCT was 5 years (range 1-13 years). The mean ages at the survey were 10.1 years (range 5-15) and 9.6 years (range 5-15) for transfused and transplanted patients, respectively. A significant reduction in HRQoL was reported in the group of transfused patients compared with that of patients transplanted in the following PedsQL domains: children's and parents' physical functions, Δ = -15.4, p = 0.009 and Δ = -11.3, p = 0.002, respectively; children's and parents' emotional functioning, Δ = -15.2, p = 0.026 and Δ = -15.2, p = 0.045, respectively; child's and parents' school functioning, Δ = -25, p = 0.005 and Δ = -22.5, p = 0.011, respectively; total child and parents scores, Δ = -14.5, p = 0.004 and Δ = -13.2, p = 0.005, respectively. The results of a multivariable analysis showed that the HSCT procedure was significantly associated with a higher total child PedsQL score (adjusted mean difference = 15.3, p = 0.001) and a higher total parent PedsQL score (adjusted mean difference = 14.1, p = 0.006). We found no significant difference in the HRQoL measured after sibling or unrelated human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched HSCT. Finally, a significant positive correlation across all the PedsQL domains was found between the scores reported by the children and those reported by their parents. In conclusion, our study shows that HSCT in pediatric patients with β-TM is associated with a good overall HRQoL profile. This information further supports physicians when counseling patients and their parents before the HSCT procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Mulas
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
| | - Fabio Efficace
- Health Outcomes Research Unit, Italian Group for Adult Hematologic Diseases (GIMEMA) Data Center, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Grazia Orofino
- Bone Marrow Transplant Center, Pediatric Hospital “Microcitemico A. Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.O.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonio Piroddi
- Bone Marrow Transplant Center, Pediatric Hospital “Microcitemico A. Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.O.); (A.P.)
| | - Eugenia Piras
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
| | - Adriana Vacca
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
| | - Susanna Barella
- Pediatric Clinic, Thalassemia and Rare Diseases, Pediatric Hospital “Microcitemico A. Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Costa
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
| | - Johannes M. Giesinger
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Giorgio La Nasa
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
| | - Giovanni Caocci
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (O.M.); (G.L.N.)
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50
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Saliba AN, Musallam KM, Taher AT. How I treat non-transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia. Blood 2023; 142:949-960. [PMID: 37478396 PMCID: PMC10644094 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023020683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricate interplay of anemia and iron overload under the pathophysiological umbrella of ineffective erythropoiesis in non-transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (NTDT) results in a complex variety of clinical phenotypes that are challenging to diagnose and manage. In this article, we use a clinical framework rooted in pathophysiology to present 4 common scenarios of patients with NTDT. Starting from practical considerations in the diagnosis of NTDT, we delineate our strategy for the longitudinal care of patients who exhibit different constellations of symptoms and complications. We highlight the use of transfusion therapy and novel agents, such as luspatercept, in the patient with anemia-related complications. We also describe our approach to chelation therapy in the patient with iron overload. Although tackling every specific complication of NTDT is beyond the scope of this article, we touch on the management of the various morbidities and multisystem manifestations of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khaled M. Musallam
- Thalassemia Center, Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ali T. Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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