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Wang D, Yuan J, Liu HL, Li SL, Ma N, Chen ML, Yuan H, Jie H, Li B, Zhang T. Clinical follow-up investigation on thickness changes in the peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer of patients with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. BMC Ophthalmol 2024; 24:348. [PMID: 39148060 PMCID: PMC11328356 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03625-0] [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: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness changes and analyse factors associated with visual recovery of G11778A Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) patients. METHODS Patients diagnosed with G11778A LHON between July 2017 and December 2020 in Tongji hospital were included in this follow-up study. Patients were grouped according to disease duration. Variations in the RNFL thickness in each quadrant at different disease stages were characterised using optical coherence tomography. According to the absence or presence of significant visual acuity improvements, LHON patients of disease duration ≥ 6 months were divided into two groups. A bivariate logistic regression model was constructed to analyse the potential factors associated with spontaneous visual recovery. RESULTS This study included 56 G11778A LHON patients (112 eyes) and 25 healthy controls (50 eyes), with a mean follow-up of 5.25 ± 1.42 months. All quadrants and mean RNFL thicknesses of LHON patients first increased and then decreased, except for the temporal RNFL. As the disease progressed, RNFL thinning slowed; however, gradual RNFL thinning occurred. Logistic regression revealed that baseline best corrected visual acuity was related to spontaneous visual recovery of LHON patients with disease duration ≥ 6 months. CONCLUSION The pattern of RNFL involvement could be helpful in the differential diagnosis of LHON and other optic neuropathies. LHON patients with better vision are more likely to experience some degree of spontaneous visual acuity recovery after the subacute phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajia Yuan
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Li Liu
- Fudan University Eye Ear Nose and Throat Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Lian Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng-Lan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Jie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Bin Li
- Wuhan Neurophth Biological Technology Limited Company, Wuhan, China.
| | - Tao Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
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Battista M, Carelli V, Bottazzi L, Bandello F, Cascavilla ML, Barboni P. Gene therapy for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2024; 24:521-528. [PMID: 38939999 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2024.2359015] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is among the most frequent inherited mitochondrial disease, causing a severe visual impairment, mostly in young-adult males. The causative mtDNA variants (the three common are m.11778 G>A/MT-ND4, m.3460 G>A/MT-ND1, and m.14484T>C/MT-ND6) by affecting complex I impair oxidative phosphorylation in retinal ganglion cells, ultimately leading to irreversible cell death and consequent functional loss. The gene therapy based on allotopic expression of a wild-type transgene carried by adeno-associated viral vectors (AVV-based) appears a promising approach in mitochondrial disease and its efficacy has been explored in several large clinical trials. AREAS COVERED The review work employed basic concepts in mitochondrial diseases, LHON, and gene therapy procedures. Reports from completed trials in LHON (i.e. RESCUE) were reviewed and critically compared. EXPERT OPINION New challenges, as the improvement of the contralateral untreated eye or the apparently better outcome in patients treated in later stages (6-12 months), were highlighted by the latest gene therapy trials. A better understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease together with combined therapy (medical and gene therapy) and optimization in genetic correction approaches could improve the visual outcome of treated eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Battista
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Valerio Carelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Programma di Neurogenetica, IRCCS Istituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Bottazzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Lucia Cascavilla
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Piero Barboni
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Studio Oculistico d'Azeglio, Bologna, Italy
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Du X, Butler AG, Chen HY. Cell-cell interaction in the pathogenesis of inherited retinal diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1332944. [PMID: 38500685 PMCID: PMC10944940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1332944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The retina is part of the central nervous system specialized for vision. Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogenous disorders that lead to progressive vision impairment or blindness. Although each disorder is rare, IRD accumulatively cause blindness in up to 5.5 million individuals worldwide. Currently, the pathophysiological mechanisms of IRD are not fully understood and there are limited treatment options available. Most IRD are caused by degeneration of light-sensitive photoreceptors. Genetic mutations that abrogate the structure and/or function of photoreceptors lead to visual impairment followed by blindness caused by loss of photoreceptors. In healthy retina, photoreceptors structurally and functionally interact with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller glia (MG) to maintain retinal homeostasis. Multiple IRD with photoreceptor degeneration as a major phenotype are caused by mutations of RPE- and/or MG-associated genes. Recent studies also reveal compromised MG and RPE caused by mutations in ubiquitously expressed ciliary genes. Therefore, photoreceptor degeneration could be a direct consequence of gene mutations and/or could be secondary to the dysfunction of their interaction partners in the retina. This review summarizes the mechanisms of photoreceptor-RPE/MG interaction in supporting retinal functions and discusses how the disruption of these processes could lead to photoreceptor degeneration, with an aim to provide a unique perspective of IRD pathogenesis and treatment paradigm. We will first describe the biology of retina and IRD and then discuss the interaction between photoreceptors and MG/RPE as well as their implications in disease pathogenesis. Finally, we will summarize the recent advances in IRD therapeutics targeting MG and/or RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Holly Y. Chen
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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He X, Fu Y, Ma L, Yao Y, Ge S, Yang Z, Fan X. AAV for Gene Therapy in Ocular Diseases: Progress and Prospects. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0291. [PMID: 38188726 PMCID: PMC10768554 DOI: 10.34133/research.0291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Owing to the promising therapeutic effect and one-time treatment advantage, gene therapy may completely change the management of eye diseases, especially retinal diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is considered one of the most promising viral gene delivery tools because it can infect various types of tissues and is considered as a relatively safe gene delivery vector. The eye is one of the most popular organs for gene therapy, since its limited volume is suitable for small doses of AAV stably transduction. Recently, an increasing number of clinical trials of AAV-mediated gene therapy are underway. This review summarizes the biological functions of AAV and its application in the treatment of various ocular diseases, as well as the characteristics of different AAV delivery routes in clinical applications. Here, the latest research progresses in AAV-mediated gene editing and silencing strategies to modify that the genetic ocular diseases are systematically outlined, especially by base editing and prime editing. We discuss the progress of AAV in ocular optogenetic therapy. We also summarize the application of AAV-mediated gene therapy in animal models and the difficulties in its clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yidian Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yizheng Yao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University; Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease,
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People’s Hospital,
Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
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Chou TH, Hao Z, Alba D, Lazo A, Gallo Afflitto G, Eastwood JD, Porciatti V, Guy J, Yu H. Mitochondrially Targeted Gene Therapy Rescues Visual Loss in a Mouse Model of Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17068. [PMID: 38069388 PMCID: PMC10707051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a common mitochondrial genetic disease, causing irreversible blindness in young individuals. Current treatments are inadequate, and there is no definitive cure. This study evaluates the effectiveness of delivering wildtype human NADH ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit 4 (hND4) gene using mito-targeted AAV(MTSAAV) to rescue LHOH mice. We observed a declining pattern in electroretinograms amplitudes as mice aged across all groups (p < 0.001), with significant differences among groups (p = 0.023; Control vs. LHON, p = 0.008; Control vs. Rescue, p = 0.228). Inner retinal thickness and intraocular pressure did not change significantly with age or groups. Compared to LHON mice, those rescued with wildtype hND4 exhibited improved retinal visual acuity (0.29 ± 0.1 cy/deg vs. 0.15 ± 0.1 cy/deg) and increased functional hyperemia response (effect of flicker, p < 0.001, effect of Group, p = 0.004; Interaction Flicker × Group, p < 0.001). Postmortem analysis shows a marked reduction in retinal ganglion cell density in the LHON group compared to the other groups (Effect of Group, p < 0.001, Control vs. LHON, p < 0.001, Control vs. Rescue, p = 0.106). These results suggest that MTSAAV-delivered wildtype hND4 gene rescues, at least in part, visual impairment in an LHON mouse model and has the therapeutic potential to treat this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Vittorio Porciatti
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (T.-H.C.); (Z.H.); (D.A.); (A.L.); (G.G.A.); (J.D.E.); (J.G.)
| | | | - Hong Yu
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (T.-H.C.); (Z.H.); (D.A.); (A.L.); (G.G.A.); (J.D.E.); (J.G.)
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Sobh M, Lagali PS, Ghiasi M, Montroy J, Dollin M, Hurley B, Leonard BC, Dimopoulos I, Lafreniere M, Fergusson DA, Lalu MM, Tsilfidis C. Safety and Efficacy of Adeno-Associated Viral Gene Therapy in Patients With Retinal Degeneration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:24. [PMID: 37982768 PMCID: PMC10668613 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.11.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This systematic review evaluates the safety and efficacy of ocular gene therapy using adeno-associated virus (AAV). Methods MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched systematically for controlled or non-controlled interventional gene therapy studies using key words related to retinal diseases, gene therapy, and AAV vectors. The primary outcome measure was safety, based on ocular severe adverse events (SAEs). Secondary outcome measures evaluated efficacy of the therapy based on best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and improvements in visual sensitivity and systemic involvement following ocular delivery. Pooling was done using a DerSimonian Laird random effects model. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, version 1. Results Our search identified 3548 records. Of these, 80 publications met eligibility criteria, representing 28 registered clinical trials and 5 postmarket surveillance studies involving AAV gene therapy for Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), choroideremia, Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), X-linked retinoschisis, and achromatopsia. Overall, AAV therapy vectors were associated with a cumulative incidence of at least one SAE of 8% (95% confidence intervals [CIs] of 5% to 12%). SAEs were often associated with the surgical procedure rather than the therapeutic vector itself. Poor or inconsistent reporting of adverse events (AEs) were a limitation for the meta-analysis. The proportion of patients with any improvement in BCVA and visual sensitivity was 41% (95% CIs of 31% to 51%) and 51% (95% CIs of 31% to 70%), respectively. Systemic immune involvement was associated with a cumulative incidence of 31% (95% CI = 21% to 42%). Conclusions AAV gene therapy vectors appear to be safe but the surgical procedure required to deliver them is associated with some risk. The large variability in efficacy can be attributed to the small number of patients treated, the heterogeneity of the population and the variability in dosage, volume, and follow-up. Translational Relevance This systematic review will help to inform and guide future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Sobh
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pamela S. Lagali
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maryam Ghiasi
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joshua Montroy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Dollin
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bernard Hurley
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian C. Leonard
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ioannis Dimopoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Lafreniere
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dean A. Fergusson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Manoj M. Lalu
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, BLUEPRINT Translational Research Group, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine Tsilfidis
- Neuroscience Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Shamsnajafabadi H, MacLaren RE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J. Current and Future Landscape in Genetic Therapies for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Cells 2023; 12:2013. [PMID: 37566092 PMCID: PMC10416882 DOI: 10.3390/cells12152013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is the most common primary mitochondrial genetic disease that causes blindness in young adults. Over 50 inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variations are associated with LHON; however, more than 95% of cases are caused by one of three missense variations (m.11778 G > A, m.3460 G > A, and m.14484 T > C) encoding for subunits ND4, ND1, and ND6 of the respiration complex I, respectively. These variants remain silent until further and currently poorly understood genetic and environmental factors precipitate the visual loss. The clinical course that ensues is variable, and a convincing treatment for LHON has yet to emerge. In 2015, an antioxidant idebenone (Raxone) received European marketing authorisation to treat visual impairment in patients with LHON, and since then it was introduced into clinical practice in several European countries. Alternative therapeutic strategies, including gene therapy and gene editing, antioxidant and neurotrophic agents, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial replacement, and stem cell therapies are being investigated in how effective they might be in altering the course of the disease. Allotopic gene therapies are in the most advanced stage of development (phase III clinical trials) whilst most other agents are in phase I or II trials or at pre-clinical stages. This manuscript discusses the phenotype and genotype of the LHON disease with complexities and peculiarities such as incomplete penetrance and gender bias, which have challenged the therapies in development emphasising the most recent use of gene therapy. Furthermore, we review the latest results of the three clinical trials based on adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated delivery of NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4) with mitochondrial targeting sequence, highlighting the differences in the vector design and the rationale behind their use in the allotopic transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Shamsnajafabadi
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Robert E. MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Karaa A, Klopstock T. Clinical trials in mitochondrial diseases. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 194:229-250. [PMID: 36813315 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-821751-1.00002-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial diseases are some of the most common and complex inherited inborn errors of metabolism. Their molecular and phenotypic diversity has led to difficulties in finding disease-modifying therapies and clinical trial efforts have been slow due to multiple significant challenges. Lack of robust natural history data, difficulties in finding specific biomarkers, absence of well-validated outcome measures, and small patient numbers have made clinical trial design and conduct difficult. Encouragingly, new interest in treating mitochondrial dysfunction in common diseases and regulatory incentives to develop therapies for rare conditions have led to significant interest and efforts to develop drugs for primary mitochondrial diseases. Here, we review past and present clinical trials and future strategies of drug development in primary mitochondrial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amel Karaa
- Mitochondrial Disease Program, Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany; German Network for mitochondrial disorders (mitoNET), Munich, Germany
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Tagliani S, Malaventura C, Ceccato C, Parmeggiani F, Suppiej A. Leber Mitochondrial Optic Neuropathy in Pediatric Females With Focus on Very Early Onset Cases. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:5-15. [PMID: 36659874 DOI: 10.1177/08830738221149962] [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] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the phenotype of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy occurring in pediatric females. This disease generally affects young adult males, but it can occur also in females, and research data in this population is lacking. The very early onset can challenge the diagnosis and delay treatment. We searched PubMed through February 2021 and identified 226 pediatric females with genetically confirmed Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and added a new case of a 3-year-old female. The male-female ratio was 1.8:1; the mean onset age in females was 11 years with the onset at 3 years of age occurring in 3 females only. Acute onset with mild visual impairment was the most common presentation, associated with optic disc edema in 16%. Differential diagnoses are pseudotumor cerebri, optic nerve drusen and optic neuritis. The outcome is poor with partial recovery in 50%, despite some receiving Idebenone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tagliani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristina Malaventura
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Parmeggiani
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, 9299University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,ERN-EYE Network - Center for Retinitis Pigmentosa of Veneto Region, 196013Camposampiero Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Agnese Suppiej
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,87812Robert Hollman Foundation, Padova, Italy.,ERN-EYE Network - Center for Retinitis Pigmentosa of Veneto Region, 196013Camposampiero Hospital, Padova, Italy
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Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: Molecular Pathophysiology and Updates on Gene Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081930. [PMID: 36009477 PMCID: PMC9405679 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular pathophysiology of LHON was reviewed and the current status of gene therapy for LHON is updated.
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Siedlecki J, Koenig S, Catarino C, Schaumberger MM, Schworm B, Priglinger SG, Rudolph G, von Livonius B, Klopstock T, Priglinger CS. Childhood versus early-teenage onset Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy: visual prognosis and capacity for recovery. Br J Ophthalmol 2022:bjophthalmol-2021-320580. [PMID: 35190400 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-320580] [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: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) in children and teenagers, the influence of age on visual prognosis has not yet been investigated. METHODS Patients from the mitoNET registry with LHON onset at age 4-16 years with at least 4 years of follow-up without treatment were included. Visual acuity (VA) at baseline, lowest VA ever recorded (nadir) and VA at end of follow-up were compared between childhood onset (ChO, ≤12 years of age) and early-teenage onset (eTO; 13-16 years). RESULTS Out of 231 patients with LHON, 19 met the inclusion criteria (8.2%). There were 11 patients in the ChO and 8 patients in the eTO group. Mean age at onset was 8.6 (SD 2.1) years (ChO) and 15.4 (SD 0.7) years (eTO) (p<0.00001). Follow-up was mean 184 (SD 129) months (ChO) and 119 (SD 78) months (eTO) (p=0.22). Baseline VA was similar between both groups in better (p=0.96) and worse eyes (p=0.54). In worse eyes, both groups deteriorated similarly (p=0.79) until nadir and showed similar recovery until end of follow-up (p=0.38). In better eyes, both groups deteriorated similarly (p=0.16) until nadir. From nadir until end of follow-up, better eyes in the ChO group showed a significantly better recovery (-0.35 (SD 0.36) vs -0.01 (SD 0.06) logMAR; p=0.02) than eTO eyes. CONCLUSION Visual prognosis of LHON in children is much more favourable in cases of childhood onset (≤12 years of age) as compared with teenage onset (13-16 years), mostly due to better recovery from nadir in childhood onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Siedlecki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Susanna Koenig
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Claudia Catarino
- Friedrich-Baur-Institut, Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Markus M Schaumberger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Benedikt Schworm
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | | | - Guenther Rudolph
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Bettina von Livonius
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Friedrich-Baur-Institut, Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Claudia S Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munchen, Bayern, Germany
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12
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Jiang J, Sun G, Miao Q, Li B, Wang D, Yuan J, Chen C. Observation of Peripapillary Choroidal Vascularity in Natural Disease Course and After Gene Therapy for Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:770069. [PMID: 34950684 PMCID: PMC8691380 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.770069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To compare peripapillary choroidal vascularity among Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) patients at different stages of natural course and healthy controls using optical coherence tomography (OCT), and to evaluate peripapillary choroidal vascularity changes in LHON patients before and after gene therapy. Methods: 57 LHON patients and 15 healthy controls were enrolled in this prospective clinical study. LHON patients were divided into three duration groups based on stage of disease progression. Both patients and healthy controls underwent OCT scans focused on the optic disc at baseline with Heidelberg Spectralis, and patients underwent OCT at 1, 3, and 6 months after gene therapy. OCT images were converted and binarized using ImageJ software. Choroidal thickness (CT), total choroidal area (TCA), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in each quadrant of OCT images were measured to evaluate peripapillary choroidal vascularity. Results: At baseline, the average CT was not significantly different between LHON patients at different stages and between healthy controls (P = 0.468). Although average TCA and average CVI were slightly higher in LHON patients at different stages than in healthy controls, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.282 and 0.812, respectively). After gene therapy, The average TCA at 1 month after gene therapy was significantly higher than that before gene therapy (P = 0.003), while no significant differences were found in the average CT or average CVI in LHON patients before and 1,3 and 6 months after gene therapy using pairwise comparisons (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: No significant difference was found in choroidal vascularity of LHON patients at different stages and healthy controls. Choroidal vascularity seems to stay stable after gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Jiang
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Gongpeng Sun
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingmei Miao
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Neurophth Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajia Yuan
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changzheng Chen
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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13
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Tian Z, Li X, Zheng W, Li B, Zhang Y. Variation in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness at different stages of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy in patients with the ND4 G11778A mutation. Semin Ophthalmol 2021; 37:496-501. [PMID: 34702118 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2021.1986078] [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] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness changes at different stages of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) in patients bearing the ND4 G11778A mutation. METHODS Ninety-eight clinically diagnosed, G11778A-positive LHON patients underwent 538 optical coherence tomography (OCT) examinations from September 2015 to September 2017. Patients were grouped based on disease duration at examination. Fifty healthy volunteers underwent 100 examinations as controls. Differences in RNFL thickness were compared across groups. RESULTS During the onset of LHON patients with G11778A mutation, the thickness of nerve fiber layer in temporal quadrant decreased slowly within 1-3 months (p > .05), then entered in the rapid thinning period, which generally lasted until about 12 months of the course of disease (p < .05), and no obvious change occurred in the stable stage (p > .05); The optic nerve fiber layer in other quadrants was usually stayed in a significant thickening period within 1-3 months (p < .05), then entered in the rapid thinning period, which generally lasted until about 24 months of the course of disease (p < .05), and no obvious change occurred in the stable stage (p > .05) . CONCLUSION In LHON patients with G11778A mutation, the thickness of optic nerve fiber layer in the temporal side will experience slow thinning stage, rapid thinning stage and stable stage; The thickness of optic nerve fiber layer in other directions varies with the course of disease. Generally, it will experience five periods: significant thickening period, swelling period, recovery period, rapid thinning period and stable period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wu Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
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14
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Wang Y, Hu LF, Cui PF, Qi LY, Xing L, Jiang HL. Pathologically Responsive Mitochondrial Gene Therapy in an Allotopic Expression-Independent Manner Cures Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2103307. [PMID: 34431574 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202103307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a rare inherited blindness caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The disorder is untreatable and tricky, as the existing chemotherapeutic agent Idebenone alleviates symptoms rather than overcoming the underlying cause. Although some studies have made progress on allotopic expression for LHON, in situ mitochondrial gene therapy remains challenging, which may simplify delivery procedures to be a promising therapeutic for LHON. LHON becomes more difficult to manage in the changed mitochondrial microenvironment, including increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Herein, a pathologically responsive mitochondrial gene delivery vector named [triphenylphosphine-terminated poly(sulfur-containing thioketal undecafluorohexylamine histamine) and Ide-terminated poly(sulfur-containing thioketal undecafluorohexylamine histamine)] (TISUH) is reported to facilitate commendable in situ mitochondrial gene therapy for LHON. TISUH directly targets diseased mitochondria via triphenylphosphine and fluorination addressing the decreasing MMP. In addition, TISUH can be disassembled by high mitochondrial ROS levels to release functional genes for enhancing gene transfection efficiency and fundamentally correcting genetic abnormalities. In both traditional and gene-mutation-induced LHON mouse models, TISUH-mediated gene therapy shows satisfactory curative effect through the sustained therapeutic protein expression in vivo. This work proposes a novel pathologically responsive in situ mitochondrial delivery platform and provides a promising approach for refractory LHON as well as other mtDNA mutated diseases treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Li-Fan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Peng-Fei Cui
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213164, China
| | - Lian-Yu Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lei Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hu-Lin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
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15
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Nuzbrokh Y, Ragi SD, Tsang SH. Gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1278. [PMID: 34532415 PMCID: PMC8421966 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a genetically variable collection of devastating disorders that lead to significant visual impairment. Advances in genetic characterization over the past two decades have allowed identification of over 260 causative mutations associated with inherited retinal disorders. Thought to be incurable, gene supplementation therapy offers great promise in treating various forms of these blinding conditions. In gene replacement therapy, a disease-causing gene is replaced with a functional copy of the gene. These therapies are designed to slow disease progression and hopefully restore visual function. Gene therapies are typically delivered to target retinal cells by subretinal (SR) or intravitreal (IVT) injection. The historic Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of voretigene neparvovec for RPE65-associated Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA) spurred tremendous optimism surrounding retinal gene therapy for various other monogenic IRDs. Novel disease-causing mutations continue to be discovered annually, and targeted genetic therapy is now under development in clinical and preclinical models for many IRDs. Numerous clinical trials for other IRDs are ongoing or have recently completed. Disorders being targeted for genetic therapy include retinitis pigmentosa (RP), choroideremia (CHM), achromatopsia (ACHM), Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, usher syndrome (USH), X-linked retinoschisis, and Stargardt disease. Here, we provide an update of completed, ongoing, and planned clinical trials using gene supplementation strategies for retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Nuzbrokh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA.,Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sara D Ragi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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16
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Amore G, Romagnoli M, Carbonelli M, Barboni P, Carelli V, La Morgia C. Therapeutic Options in Hereditary Optic Neuropathies. Drugs 2021; 81:57-86. [PMID: 33159657 PMCID: PMC7843467 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-020-01428-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Options for the effective treatment of hereditary optic neuropathies have been a long time coming. The successful launch of the antioxidant idebenone for Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), followed by its introduction into clinical practice across Europe, was an important step forward. Nevertheless, other options, especially for a variety of mitochondrial optic neuropathies such as dominant optic atrophy (DOA), are needed, and a number of pharmaceutical agents, acting on different molecular pathways, are currently under development. These include gene therapy, which has reached Phase III development for LHON, but is expected to be developed also for DOA, whilst most of the other agents (other antioxidants, anti-apoptotic drugs, activators of mitobiogenesis, etc.) are almost all at Phase II or at preclinical stage of research. Here, we review proposed target mechanisms, preclinical evidence, available clinical trials with primary endpoints and results, of a wide range of tested molecules, to give an overview of the field, also providing the landscape of future scenarios, including gene therapy, gene editing, and reproductive options to prevent transmission of mitochondrial DNA mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Amore
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Romagnoli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Via Altura 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Carbonelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Via Altura 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Valerio Carelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Via Altura 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara La Morgia
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Clinica Neurologica, Bologna, Via Altura 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy.
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Bahr T, Welburn K, Donnelly J, Bai Y. Emerging model systems and treatment approaches for Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy: Challenges and opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165743. [PMID: 32105823 PMCID: PMC9252426 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a mitochondrial disease mainly affecting retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The pathogenesis of LHON remains ill-characterized due to a historic lack of effective disease models. Promising models have recently begun to emerge; however, less effective models remain popular. Many such models represent LHON using non-neuronal cells or assume that mutant mtDNA alone is sufficient to model the disease. This is problematic because context-specific factors play a significant role in LHON pathogenesis, as the mtDNA mutation itself is necessary but not sufficient to cause LHON. Effective models of LHON should be capable of demonstrating processes that distinguish healthy carrier cells from diseased cells. In light of these considerations, we review the pathophysiology of LHON as it relates to old, new and future models. We further discuss treatments for LHON and unanswered questions that might be explored using these new model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Bahr
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 7703 Floyd Curl Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229. First Author
| | - Kyle Welburn
- University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine 7615 Kennedy Hill Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78235 Contributing Author
| | - Jonathan Donnelly
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 7703 Floyd Curl Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229. Contributing author
| | - Yidong Bai
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 7703 Floyd Curl Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229
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18
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Kurimoto T, Ueda K, Mori S, Kamada S, Sakamoto M, Yamada-Nakanishi Y, Matsumiya W, Nakamura M. A Single-Arm, Prospective, Exploratory Study to Preliminarily Test Effectiveness and Safety of Skin Electrical Stimulation for Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051359. [PMID: 32384676 PMCID: PMC7290509 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is an intractable disease associated with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. In this preliminary, single-arm, prospective, open-label exploratory trial, we investigated the effectiveness and safety of skin electrical stimulation (SES) for cases of LHON harboring the mtDNA 11,778 mutation. Of the 11 enrolled patients, 10 completed six sessions of SES once every two weeks over a 10-week period. The primary outcome measure was the change in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR)-converted best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at one week after the last session of SES. The main secondary outcome measures were the logMAR BCVA at four and eight weeks and Humphrey visual field test sensitivities at one, four, and eight weeks. At all follow-up points, the logMAR BCVA had improved significantly from baseline, [1.80 (1.70–1.80) at baseline, 1.75 (1.52–1.80) at one week, 1.75 (1.50–1.80) at four weeks, and 1.75 (1.52–1.80) at eight weeks; p < 0.05]. At eight weeks of follow-up, five patients showed >2-fold increase in the summed sensitivity at 52 measurement points from baseline. No adverse effects were observed. In conclusion, SES could be a viable treatment option for patients with LHON in the chronic phase harboring the mtDNA 11,778 mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuji Kurimoto
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-78-382-6048; Fax: 81-78-382-6059
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19
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Mackey D. "Eye genetics at the fork in the road" 2017 Franceschetti Lecture, Leeds UK. Ophthalmic Genet 2020; 41:201-207. [PMID: 32363976 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2020.1755988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases - a disparate group of eye disorders with over 200 known genetic causes - are now the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults in developed countries. Until recently there was no cure for genetic eye diseases. After over a century of defining inherited retinal diseases with their phenotypes, and then several decades of discovering associated genes and their mutations, we now have gene therapy, stem cell therapy, predictive DNA testing and a revolution in adaptive computer technology. With the explosion of expensive treatment options, we need to consider whether finite resources should go towards treatment, prevention or rehabilitation or an amalgamation of all three. In addition, although evidence-based medicine is the goal, how do we direct our desperate patients towards genuine clinical trials and away from quackery? How do we provide scientifically valid treatments for eye diseases too rare to run proper trials and then capture the results of "off label treatments"?
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mackey
- The University of Western Australia , Perth, Australia.,Lions Eye Institute , Nedlands, Australia
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20
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Yuan J, Zhang Y, Liu H, Wang D, Du Y, Tian Z, Li X, Yang S, Pei H, Wan X, Xiao S, Song L, Xiao X, Sun J, Wang Z, Li B. Seven-Year Follow-up of Gene Therapy for Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Ophthalmology 2020; 127:1125-1127. [PMID: 32284191 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2020.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yangyang Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Eye Center, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Han Pei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital and Henan Provincial Ophthalmic Research Institute, Henan Provincial Ophthalmic Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Xing Wan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital and Henan Provincial Ophthalmic Research Institute, Henan Provincial Ophthalmic Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Su Xiao
- Wuhan Neurophth Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lin Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhitao Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province, China; Wuhan Neurophth Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
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21
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Mackey DA, Kearns LS. The challenge of an adequate outcome in trials for genetic eye disease such as Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 47:704-705. [PMID: 31397049 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David A Mackey
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Lisa S Kearns
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Zhang Y, Li X, Yuan J, Tian Z, Liu H, Wang D, Li B. Prognostic factors for visual acuity in patients with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy after rAAV2-ND4 gene therapy. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 47:774-778. [PMID: 30968497 PMCID: PMC6767190 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Importance Factors affecting visual acuity prognosis after gene therapy in Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) patients with mutation at site 11 778 are unknown. Background To analyse correlations between visual acuity prognosis and baseline characteristics of LHON after rAAV2‐ND4 gene therapy. Design Retrospective study. Participants Fifty‐three LHON patients with a mutation at site 11 778. Methods Single‐eye intravitreal injection of rAAV2‐ND4. Main Outcome Measures Sex, onset age, duration of disease, best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual field index (VFI) and mean deviation (MD) were recorded for all patients at baseline. BCVA was recorded at 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐up visits after gene therapy. Correlations between BCVA prognosis and baseline characteristics were analysed by univariate analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed on independent factors affecting BCVA prognosis. Results Univariate analysis showed significant differences in the VFI and MD of the injected eye between BCVA improvement and non‐improvement groups after 3 months of treatment, with greater VFI and smaller absolute MD in the BCVA improvement group. Logistic regression showed that VFI and baseline BCVA were independent prognostic factors for visual acuity. The correlation between VFI and MD was statistically significant. Conclusions and Relevance VFI and baseline BCVA were correlated with the visual acuity prognosis of LHON patients receiving gene therapy, with greater baseline VFI and better baseline BCVA predicting better visual acuity prognosis. MD was strongly correlated with VFI and might be correlated with gene therapy prognosis. This finding may form a basis for predicting the efficacy of gene therapy in these patients and guiding subsequent treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine), Shiyan, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine), Shiyan, China
| | - Jiajia Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine), Shiyan, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taihe Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine), Shiyan, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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