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Giannotta G, Ruggiero M, De Rinaldis M, Trabacca A. Exploring variability in cognitive functioning in patients with spinal muscular atrophy: a scoping review. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:3699-3710. [PMID: 38580877 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-024-07503-x] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The cognitive functioning of individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is not well understood, prompting a call for more research to better grasp cognitive involvement in SMA. This study aims to explore recent findings regarding cognitive outcomes in SMA patients, including correlations between clinical features and cognitive abilities. The investigation seeks to identify commonly used measures for assessing cognitive function in this patient population. A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology examined literature until December 2023. Two databases were searched along with relevant article references using specific terms such as "spinal muscular atrophy," "SMA," "cognitive," "abilities," "functions," "intellective," or "intellectual." Screening focused on titles and abstracts from English language peer-reviewed journals. After the initial research, 1452 articles were identified. Subsequent screening and selection led to the inclusion of 13 articles in the review. Among these studies, four indicated a cognitive trend within the normal range for SMA patients. In four other studies, the majority of patients fell within the normal range. However, smaller proportions were observed to be either above or below the norm compared to the controls. Three studies reported noted cognitive performance below the average, while two showed above-average scores. The scoping review suggests that most SMA patients have cognitive abilities similar to the general population, with types II and III showing even lesser impact. However, certain cognitive domains may be affected in type I patients, highlighting the need for further research to fully understand cognitive involvement in SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Giannotta
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults (Developmental Neurology and Neurorehabilitation), Associazione "La Nostra Famiglia" - IRCCS "E. Medea", Scientific Hospital for Neurorehabilitation, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Marta Ruggiero
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults (Developmental Neurology and Neurorehabilitation), Associazione "La Nostra Famiglia" - IRCCS "E. Medea", Scientific Hospital for Neurorehabilitation, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Marta De Rinaldis
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults (Developmental Neurology and Neurorehabilitation), Associazione "La Nostra Famiglia" - IRCCS "E. Medea", Scientific Hospital for Neurorehabilitation, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Antonio Trabacca
- Scientific Institute IRCCS "E. Medea", Scientific Direction, Via Don L. Monza 20, 23842, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy.
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Akodad S, De Smedt D, Baijot S, Stevens H, Deconinck N. Cognition and communication in patients with spinal muscular atrophy: A systematic review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33677. [PMID: 39040255 PMCID: PMC11261103 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33677] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
•Synthesizes evidence from 12 studies on cognitive and communicative impacts in SMA, focusing on nuanced functional outcomes.•Highlights cognitive variability in SMA1, revealing subtle challenges in SMA2 and 3, and stresses tailored assessment methodologies.•Identifies communication barriers in SMA, emphasizing the urgency of investigating their potential interplay with cognitive functions.•Stresses integrating cognitive and communicative assessments into SMA management, to enhanceunderstanding of treatment impacts.•Calls for standardized, sensitive tools to evaluate cognition and communication, ensuring consistent assessments across SMA phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanae Akodad
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Innovation in Healthcare (I3h), Faculté de Médecine, Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Delphine De Smedt
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Simon Baijot
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, ULB, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB), Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Department of Paediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Reference Center, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, ULB, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB), Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Department of Neuropsychology and Speech Therapy, Brussels, Belgium
- Neuropsychology and Functional Neuroimaging Research Group (UR2NF) at the Center for Research in Cognition and Neurosciences (CRCN) and ULB Neurosciences Institute (UNI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hilde Stevens
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Innovation in Healthcare (I3h), Faculté de Médecine, Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Deconinck
- Université Libre de Bruxelles, ULB, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB), Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Department of Paediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Reference Center, Brussels, Belgium
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Buchignani B, Cicala G, Cumbo F, Ricci M, Capasso A, Ticci C, Mazzanti S, Brolatti N, Tosi M, Dosi C, Antonaci L, Coratti G, Pera MC, Leone D, Palermo C, Berti B, Frongia AL, Sacchini M, Bruno C, Masson R, D'Amico A, Battini R, Pane M, Mercuri E. Communicative development inventory in type 1 and presymptomatic infants with spinal muscular atrophy: a cohort study. Arch Dis Child 2024; 109:395-401. [PMID: 38290776 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-326613] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess early language acquisitions in treated individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1 and in infants identified by newborn screening (NBS). METHODS Parents of SMA individuals aged between 8 and 36 months were asked to fill in the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventory (MB-CDI) that assesses comprehension, gesture and expressive skills. A follow-up assessment was performed in 21 of the 36. RESULTS The MB-CDI was completed by parents of 24 type 1 and 12 infants identified by NBS. Comprehension skills were preserved in 81% of the type 1 SMA and in 87% infants identified by NBS. Gesture abilities were <5th centile in 55% of the type 1 SMA and in none of those identified by NBS. Lexical expressions were <5th centile in more than 80% type 1 SMA and in 50% of infants identified by NBS. At follow-up, despite an increase in lexical expression skills, the scores remained below the fifth centile in 43% type 1 SMA and in 86% of infants identified by NBS. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that language and communication development may follow a similar pattern to that observed in motor function with the possibility to develop skills (eg, ability to say clear words) that are not usually present in untreated infants but with a level of performance that does not reach that of their typically developing peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Buchignani
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Cicala
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Francesca Cumbo
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Ricci
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Capasso
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Ticci
- SOC Malattie Metaboliche e Muscolari Ereditarie, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze, Italy
| | - Sara Mazzanti
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Noemi Brolatti
- Center of Translational and Experimental Myology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michele Tosi
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Dosi
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Laura Antonaci
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Giorgia Coratti
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Pera
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Daniela Leone
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Concetta Palermo
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Beatrice Berti
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Lia Frongia
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Michele Sacchini
- SOC Malattie Metaboliche e Muscolari Ereditarie, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze, Italy
| | - Claudio Bruno
- Center of Translational and Experimental Myology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Riccardo Masson
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Adele D'Amico
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Battini
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Calambrone, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marika Pane
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Eugenio Mercuri
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
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Shen W, Yan Z, Su S, Xiang P, Zhou Q, Zou M, Yang Z, Tang W, Liang Y, Chen Y. Gray and white matter abnormalities in children with type 2 and 3 SMA: A morphological assessment. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:1381-1388. [PMID: 38165463 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05397-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the changes in brain gray and white matter structure in SMA patients and their correlation with the severity of the disease. A total of 43 SMA patients (including 22 type II and 21 type III SMA patients) and 37 healthy controls were evaluated by MRI. The gray matter volume, gray matter thickness, gray matter surface area, and white matter volume of designated brain regions automatically segmented by FreeSurfer, were compared. We evaluate clinical characteristics of SMA and study the correlation between clinical characteristics and structural changes. SMA showed significant bilateral cortical superficial area loss in the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes and global white matter volume decreases. Moreover, these patients were also found with an increased mean thickness of entire brain and right gray matter. An increased right postcentral gyrus superficial area, right central sulcus volume, and white matter volume of the right postcentral were associated with higher HFMSE scores. CONCLUSION Type 2 and 3 children SMA had extensive, multifocal, symmetrical gray and white matter alterations. Postcentral gyrus degeneration of SMA was associated with the severity of muscular atrophy. The lack of SMN protein possibly interacted with cerebellar structural changes in somatosensory areas. WHAT IS KNOWN • MRI has found brain changes in SMA patients, however, there is no unified conclusion and lack of correlation with clinical degree in children SMA with type 2-3. WHAT IS NEW • Type II and II children SMA had extensive, multifocal, symmetrical gray and white matter alterations. Postcentral gyrus degeneration of SMA was associated with the severity of muscular atrophy. Cerebellar structural changes in somatosensory areas may attribute to the lack of SMN protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqing Shen
- Department of Interventional Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi Yan
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shu Su
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Pei Xiang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qin Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mengsha Zou
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhiyun Yang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Wen Tang
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yujian Liang
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yingqian Chen
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 58 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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Bitetti I, Manna MR, Stella R, Varone A. Motor and neurocognitive profiles of children with symptomatic spinal muscular atrophy type 1 with two copies of SMN2 before and after treatment: a longitudinal observational study. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1326528. [PMID: 38450080 PMCID: PMC10915206 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1326528] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. In clinical studies, gene replacement therapy with onasemnogene abeparvovec (formerly AVXS-101, Zolgensma®, Novartis) was efficacious in improving motor functioning in children with SMA. However, its effects on cognitive and language skills are largely unknown. Methods This longitudinal observational study evaluated changes in motor and neurocognitive functioning over a 1-year period after administration of onasemnogene abeparvovec in 12 symptomatic SMA type 1 patients with two copies of SMN2 aged 1.7-52.6 months at administration. Motor functioning was measured using the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test for Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP-INTEND) while neurocognitive assessment was measured using Griffiths III. Motor milestones and language ability were also assessed at each timepoint. Results and discussion Statistically significant increases in median CHOP-INTEND scores from baseline were observed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after onasemnogene abeparvovec administration (all p ≤ 0.005). Most (91.7%) patients were able to roll over or sit independently for >1 min at 12 months. Significant increases in the Griffiths III Foundations of Learning, Language and Communication, Eye and Hand Coordination, and Personal-Social-Emotional subscale scores were observed at 12-months, but not in the Gross Motor subscale. Speech and language abilities progressed in most patients. Overall, most patients showed some improvement in cognitive and communication performance after treatment with onasemnogene abeparvovec in addition to significant improvement in motor functioning and motor milestones. Evaluation of neurocognitive function should be considered when assessing the global functioning of patients with SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Bitetti
- Pediatric Neurology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Manna
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Stella
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Varone
- Pediatric Neurology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, Naples, Italy
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Kölbel H, Kopka M, Modler L, Blaschek A, Schara-Schmidt U, Vill K, Schwartz O, Müller-Felber W. Impaired Neurodevelopment in Children with 5q-SMA - 2 Years After Newborn Screening. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:143-151. [PMID: 37927272 PMCID: PMC10789341 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230136] [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] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Numerous studies have consistently found that reduced SMN protein expression does not severely affect cognitive function in SMA patients. However, the average intelligence quotient of SMA patients has ranged above to below average in different studies. The cognitive development of SMA patients identified through newborn screening remains largely unknown. METHODS 40 of 47 eligible SMA patients (23 females/17 males) from 39 families identified through newborn screening between January 2018 and December 2020 underwent developmental testing using Bayley III (BSID) after the 2 years of age. The mean age was 29.25 months (23-42 months). 17 patients had 2, 11 patients had 3 and 12 patients had ≥4 copies of SMN2. RESULTS cognitive scale: mean 94.55 (SD 24.01); language scale: mean 86.09 (SD 26.41); motor scale: 81.28 (SD 28.07). Overall, the cognitive scales show that 14 children were below average, 20 children were average and 6 children were above average. 10/14 children with below average scores had 2 SMN2 copies. The post-hoc pairwise comparisons showed that the cognition main scale was significantly more sensitive to the number of SMN2 copies than the motor main scale of the BSID (MΔ= 10.27, p = 0.014). There is also evidence that cognition scored higher than the language main scale (MΔ= 7.11, p = 0.090). CONCLUSION The impaired cognitive development of SMA children with 2 SMN2 copies, despite early initiation of therapy, underscores the critical role of the SMN protein in the early stages of brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Kölbel
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marius Kopka
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Laura Modler
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Astrid Blaschek
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schara-Schmidt
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Katharina Vill
- Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Dr. v. Hauner Children’s Hospital, LMU – University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Oliver Schwartz
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
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Mackels L, Servais L. The Importance of Early Treatment of Inherited Neuromuscular Conditions. J Neuromuscul Dis 2024; 11:253-274. [PMID: 38306060 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-230189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
There has been tremendous progress in treatment of neuromuscular diseases over the last 20 years, which has transformed the natural history of these severely debilitating conditions. Although the factors that determine the response to therapy are many and in some instance remain to be fully elucidated, early treatment clearly has a major impact on patient outcomes across a number of inherited neuromuscular conditions. To improve patient care and outcomes, clinicians should be aware of neuromuscular conditions that require prompt treatment initiation. This review describes data that underscore the importance of early treatment of children with inherited neuromuscular conditions with an emphasis on data resulting from newborn screening efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurane Mackels
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Adult Neurology Department, Citadelle Hospital, Liège, Belgium
| | - Laurent Servais
- Neuromuscular Centre, Division of Paediatrics, University and University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford & NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
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8
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Jenner LA, Farran EK, Welham A, Jones C, Moss J. The use of eye-tracking technology as a tool to evaluate social cognition in people with an intellectual disability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:42. [PMID: 38044457 PMCID: PMC10694880 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09506-9] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relatively little is known about social cognition in people with intellectual disability (ID), and how this may support understanding of co-occurring autism. A limitation of previous research is that traditional social-cognitive tasks place a demand on domain-general cognition and language abilities. These tasks are not suitable for people with ID and lack the sensitivity to detect subtle social-cognitive processes. In autism research, eye-tracking technology has offered an effective method of evaluating social cognition-indicating associations between visual social attention and autism characteristics. The present systematic review synthesised research which has used eye-tracking technology to study social cognition in ID. A meta-analysis was used to explore whether visual attention on socially salient regions (SSRs) of stimuli during these tasks correlated with degree of autism characteristics presented on clinical assessment tools. METHOD Searches were conducted using four databases, research mailing lists, and citation tracking. Following in-depth screening and exclusion of studies with low methodological quality, 49 articles were included in the review. A correlational meta-analysis was run on Pearson's r values obtained from twelve studies, reporting the relationship between visual attention on SSRs and autism characteristics. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Eye-tracking technology was used to measure different social-cognitive abilities across a range of syndromic and non-syndromic ID groups. Restricted scan paths and eye-region avoidance appeared to impact people's ability to make explicit inferences about mental states and social cues. Readiness to attend to social stimuli also varied depending on social content and degree of familiarity. A meta-analysis using a random effects model revealed a significant negative correlation (r = -.28, [95% CI -.47, -.08]) between visual attention on SSRs and autism characteristics across ID groups. Together, these findings highlight how eye-tracking can be used as an accessible tool to measure more subtle social-cognitive processes, which appear to reflect variability in observable behaviour. Further research is needed to be able to explore additional covariates (e.g. ID severity, ADHD, anxiety) which may be related to visual attention on SSRs, to different degrees within syndromic and non-syndromic ID groups, in order to determine the specificity of the association with autism characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Jenner
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK.
| | - E K Farran
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - A Welham
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - C Jones
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Moss
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
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9
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Buchignani B, Cicala G, Moriconi F, Ricci M, Capasso A, Coratti G, Casiraghi J, Albamonte E, Cristofani P, Cutrona C, Pera MC, Antonaci L, Roncoroni C, Chieffo D, Sansone VA, Battini R, Pane M, Mercuri E. Profile of cognitive abilities in spinal muscular atrophy type II and III: what is the role of motor impairment? Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:711-717. [PMID: 37709650 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.08.005] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
There has recently been some concern on possible cognitive impairment in patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The aim of this study was to assess cognitive profiles in type II and III SMA with a focus on individual indexes and possible correlations with motor function. 57 type II and III individuals, aged 3.5-17 years, were consecutively enrolled in a prospective, multicentric study. Cognitive function was assessed using age-appropriate Weschler Scales. Motor function was concomitantly assessed using disease-specific functional scales. Only 2 individuals (3%) had a intellectual disability of mild degree while the others were within normal range, with no significant difference in relation to SMA type, gender or functional status. While the overall quotients were mostly within normal range, some indexes showed wider variability. A significant positive medium correlation was found between Processing Speed Index and motor functional scores. Working memory had lower scores in type III patients compared to type II. Intellectual disability is uncommon in type II and III SMA. Motor functional abilities may play a role in some of the items contributing to the overall cognitive profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Buchignani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy; Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Cicala
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Moriconi
- Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Ricci
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Capasso
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Coratti
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Jacopo Casiraghi
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Centro Clinico Nemo, Niguarda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Emilio Albamonte
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Centro Clinico Nemo, Niguarda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Cristofani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Costanza Cutrona
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria C Pera
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Antonaci
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Roncoroni
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Centro Clinico Nemo, Niguarda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Daniela Chieffo
- Psychology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria A Sansone
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, University of Milan, Centro Clinico Nemo, Niguarda Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberta Battini
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marika Pane
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Mercuri
- Centro Clinico Nemo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Pediatric Neurology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
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10
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Fay A. Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A (Now) Treatable Neurodegenerative Disease. Pediatr Clin North Am 2023; 70:963-977. [PMID: 37704354 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.06.002] [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] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive disease of the lower motor neurons associated with recessive loss of the SMN1 gene, and which leads to worsening weakness and disability, and is fatal in its most severe forms. Over the past six years, three treatments have emerged, two drugs that modify exon splicing and one gene therapy, which have transformed the management of this disease. When treated pre-symptomatically, many children show normal early motor development, and the benefits extend from the newborn period to adulthood. Similar treatment approaches are now under investigation for rare types of SMA associated with genes beyond SMN1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Fay
- University of California, San Francisco, 1875 4th Street., Suite 5A, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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11
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Cottam NC, Bamfo T, Harrington MA, Charvet CJ, Hekmatyar K, Tulin N, Sun J. Cerebellar structural, astrocytic, and neuronal abnormalities in the SMNΔ7 mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy. Brain Pathol 2023; 33:e13162. [PMID: 37218083 PMCID: PMC10467044 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13162] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinalmuscular atrophy (SMA) is a neuromuscular disease that affects as many as 1 in 6000 individuals at birth, making it the leading genetic cause of infant mortality. A growing number of studies indicate that SMA is a multi-system disease. The cerebellum has received little attention even though it plays an important role in motor function and widespread pathology has been reported in the cerebella of SMA patients. In this study, we assessed SMA pathology in the cerebellum using structural and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging, immunohistochemistry, and electrophysiology with the SMNΔ7 mouse model. We found a significant disproportionate loss in cerebellar volume, decrease in afferent cerebellar tracts, selective lobule-specific degeneration of Purkinje cells, abnormal lobule foliation and astrocyte integrity, and a decrease in spontaneous firing of cerebellar output neurons in the SMA mice compared to controls. Our data suggest that defects in cerebellar structure and function due to decreased survival motor neuron (SMN) levels impair the functional cerebellar output affecting motor control, and that cerebellar pathology should be addressed to achieve comprehensive treatment and therapy for SMA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C. Cottam
- Department of Biological SciencesDelaware State UniversityDoverDelawareUSA
| | - Tiffany Bamfo
- Department of Biological SciencesDelaware State UniversityDoverDelawareUSA
| | | | - Christine J. Charvet
- Delaware Center for Neuroscience ResearchDelaware State UniversityDoverDelawareUSA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and PharmacologyAuburn UniversityAuburnAlabamaUSA
- Department of PsychologyDelaware State UniversityDoverDEUnited States
| | - Khan Hekmatyar
- Center for Biomedical and Brain ImagingUniversity of DelawareNewarkDelawareUSA
- Bioimaging Research Center for Biomedical and Brain ImagingUniversity of GeorgiaAthensGeorgiaUSA
| | - Nikita Tulin
- Department of NeuroscienceTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Jianli Sun
- Department of Biological SciencesDelaware State UniversityDoverDelawareUSA
- Delaware Center for Neuroscience ResearchDelaware State UniversityDoverDelawareUSA
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12
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Tosi M, Cumbo F, Catteruccia M, Carlesi A, Mizzoni I, De Luca G, Cherchi C, Cutrera R, Bertini E, D'Amico A. Neurocognitive profile of a cohort of SMA type 1 pediatric patients and emotional aspects, resilience and coping strategies of their caregivers. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2023; 43:36-43. [PMID: 36893678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1 represents the most severe condition of the spectrum of SMA 5q. In the absence of therapeutic interventions, patients do not achieve any motor milestone and their life expectancy does not exceed two years of age. To date, three disease-modifying drugs have been approved for SMA type I. These treatments have radically changed the natural history of the disease, improving motor, respiratory and bulbar functions. In recent years huge amount of data have been collected worldwide related to motor, respiratory and swallowing function outcome in treated patients, whereas the neurocognitive profile of treated patients has been poorly explored. Here we report the neurocognitive development profile of a cohort of SMA type I children treated with a disease modifying therapy. We also describe the burden and resilience as well as the coping strategies of their caregivers. Our finding show a global developmental delay in most patients and defects in gross motor functions contribute most to lower the general development quotient of Griffiths III, whereas the scores obtained on evaluating learning and language abilities scales suggest a positive trend in the developmental trajectory of general neurocognitive abilities. Some parents reported anxiety and stress but overall they were resilient (and had good coping strategies towards the burden of care for their child. These results reinforce the importance of routinely assessing the neurocognitive aspects in SMA type I patients and to offer an early intervention to favor the psychosocial development of these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Tosi
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Cumbo
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Catteruccia
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Adelina Carlesi
- Developmental Neurology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Mizzoni
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo De Luca
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Cherchi
- Center for Pediatric Palliative Care, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Cutrera
- Pulmonology and Cystic Fibrosis Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Bertini
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Adele D'Amico
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Ngawa M, Dal Farra F, Marinescu AD, Servais L. Longitudinal developmental profile of newborns and toddlers treated for spinal muscular atrophy. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231154335. [PMID: 36846472 PMCID: PMC9944336 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231154335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) results from a loss-of-function mutation in the SMN1 gene. SMA patients suffer progressive motor disability, although no intellectual impairments have been described. Three drugs have been recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These drugs result in longer life expectancy for SMA type 1 (SMA1) patients. Objective The objective of the study was to assess longitudinally the psychomotor development of patients with SMA1 treated after the symptom onset and of patients treated presymptomatically. Design Longitudinal, monocentric, noninterventional, prospective study. Methods Our study included 11 SMA1 patients and seven presymptomatic SMA patients. The SMA1 patients were treated with an approved drug beginning after onset of symptoms; treatment for the presymptomatic patients was begun before symptom onset. They were longitudinally evaluated between September 2018 and January 2022 using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development™ - Third Edition. Results At each time point, all patients treated presymptomatically scored above those treated postsymptomatically on the motor scale. The cognitive scores of six of the seven patients treated presymptomatically were average; one patient was in the low average range. In the 11 postsymptomatically treated patients, four scored either in the low average or the abnormal range on the cognitive scale, but a positive trend was observed during the follow-up. Conclusion A significant proportion of patients treated postsymptomatically scored below average on cognitive and communicative scales, with most significant concerns raised about the age of 1 year. Our study indicates that intellectual development should be considered as an important outcome in treated SMA1 patients. Cognitive and communicative evaluations should be performed as part of standard of care, and guidance should be provided to parents for optimal stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Ngawa
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Department of
Paediatrics, University Hospital Liège & University of Liège,
Belgium
| | - Fabian Dal Farra
- Division of Child Neurology, Centre de
Références des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Pediatrics,
University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Andrei-Dan Marinescu
- Division of Child Neurology, Centre de
Références des Maladies Neuromusculaires, Department of Pediatrics,
University Hospital Liège & University of Liège, Liège, Belgium,Department of Pediatric Neurology, ‘Alexandru
Obregia’ Psychiatry Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
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14
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Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in SMN1 (encoding survival motor neuron protein (SMN)). Reduced expression of SMN leads to loss of α-motor neurons, severe muscle weakness and often early death. Standard-of-care recommendations for multidisciplinary supportive care of SMA were established in the past few decades. However, improved understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms of SMA has led to the development of different therapeutic approaches. Three treatments that increase SMN expression by distinct molecular mechanisms, administration routes and tissue biodistributions have received regulatory approval with others in clinical development. The advent of the new therapies is redefining standards of care as in many countries most patients are treated with one of the new therapies, leading to the identification of emerging new phenotypes of SMA and a renewed characterization of demographics owing to improved patient survival.
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15
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Detering NT, Zambon A, Hensel N, Kothary R, Swoboda K, Gillingwater TH, Baranello G. 264th ENMC International Workshop: Multi-system involvement in Spinal Muscular Atrophy Hoofddorp, The Netherlands, November 19th – 21th 2021. Neuromuscul Disord 2022; 32:697-705. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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16
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McMillan HJ, Proud CM, Farrar MA, Alexander IE, Muntoni F, Servais L. Onasemnogene abeparvovec for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:1075-1090. [PMID: 35437095 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2066471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) represents a significant milestone in the treatment of neurologic diseases. SMA is a neurodegenerative disease that results in motor neuron loss because of mutations of the survival motor neuron 1 gene, which directs survival motor neuron (SMN) protein production. Onasemnogene abeparvovec, a one-time gene replacement therapy, delivers a functional transgene to restore SMN protein expression. Onasemnogene abeparvovec has demonstrated improved survival and motor milestone achievements for presymptomatic infants and patients with SMA type 1. AREAS COVERED This expert review describes the current state of gene therapy for SMA, reviews the mechanism of and clinical experience with onasemnogene abeparvovec, explains future efforts to expand applications of gene therapy for SMA, and provides context for developing gene therapy for other conditions. EXPERT OPINION Onasemnogene abeparvovec has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials and, because of this, is a valuable treatment option for patients with symptomatic infantile SMA and those identified by newborn screening. Gene therapy is still in its infancy, and challenges and uncertainties associated with transgene delivery must be addressed. With ongoing development of vector technology, more specific tissue tropism, reduced "off-target" effects, and an enhanced safety profile will continue to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh J McMillan
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Crystal M Proud
- Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Michelle A Farrar
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney.,Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian E Alexander
- Gene Therapy Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Francesco Muntoni
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health London, UK.,NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, & Great Ormond Street Hospital Trust, London, UK
| | - Laurent Servais
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège & Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium.,MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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17
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Simonati A, Williams RE. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: The Multifaceted Approach to the Clinical Issues, an Overview. Front Neurol 2022; 13:811686. [PMID: 35359645 PMCID: PMC8961688 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.811686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this review is to summarize the current state-of-art in the field of childhood Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL), a group of rare neurodegenerative disorders. These are genetic diseases associated with the formation of toxic endo-lysosomal storage. Following a brief historical review of the evolution of NCL definition, a clinically-oriented approach is used describing how the early symptoms and signs affecting motor, visual, cognitive domains, and including seizures, may lead clinicians to a rapid molecular diagnosis, avoiding the long diagnostic odyssey commonly observed. We go on to focus on recent advances in NCL research and summarize contributions to knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying NCL. We describe the large variety of experimental models which have aided this research, as well as the most recent technological developments which have shed light on the main mechanisms involved in the cellular pathology, such as apoptosis and autophagy. The search for innovative therapies is described. Translation of experimental data into therapeutic approaches is being established for several of the NCLs, and one drug is now commercially available. Lastly, we show the importance of palliative care and symptomatic treatments which are still the main therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Simonati
- Departments of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, AOUI-VR, Verona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Simonati
| | - Ruth E. Williams
- Department of Children's Neuroscience, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Ruth E. Williams
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18
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Assessing Cognitive Function in Neuromuscular Diseases: A Pilot Study in a Sample of Children and Adolescents. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204777. [PMID: 34682900 PMCID: PMC8537027 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) involvement has been variously studied in pediatric neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). The primary goal of this study was to assess cognitive functioning in NMDs, and secondary aims were to investigate possible associations of cognitive impairment with motor impairment, neurodevelopmental delay, and genotype. This was a cross-sectional study of 43 pediatric patients, affected by six NMDs. Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and glycogen storage disease type 2 (GSD2) patients had a delay on the Bayley-III scales. On Wechsler scales, DMD and DM1 patients showed lower FSIQ scores, with an intellectual disability (ID) in 27% and 50%, respectively. FSIQ was normal in Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), GSD2, and hereditary motor sensory neuropathy (HMSN) patients, while higher individual scores were found in the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) group. In the DM1 cohort, lower FSIQ correlated with worse motor performance (ρ = 0.84, p < 0.05), and delayed speech acquisition was associated with ID (p = 0.048), with worse cognitive impairment in the congenital than in the infantile form (p = 0.04). This study provides further evidence of CNS in some NMDs and reinforces the need to include cognitive assessment in protocols of care of selected pediatric NMDs.
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