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Sun M, Lou J, Xinghe W, Zhao Y, Dai Y, Liu S, Yan T. Hb H disease associated with compound heterozygosity for -- SEA deletion and a novel alpha globin chain variant ( HBA2:c.175C>A) on the distal histidine in a Chinese family. Hematology 2024; 29:2339559. [PMID: 38626234 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2024.2339559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In clinical practice, the majority of α-thalassaemia cases arise from deletions of the α-globin genes. However, a subset of cases is attributed to rare haemoglobin variants, which can manifest with borderline or normal screening results, potentially leading to missed diagnoses in clinical practice. METHODS Blood samples were collected from family members and underwent haematological, DNA and RNA analysis. RESULTS The five-month-old proband presented a haematological phenotype consistent with Hb H disease. The mother's haematology profile was consistent with an α-thalassaemia carrier, while the father exhibited a borderline reduction in MCV and MCH. MALDI-TOF identified an abnormal α-chain in the proband. DNA analysis revealed a novel α-globin variant (HBA2:c.175C>A, α58His>Asn, Hb DG-Nancheng) affecting the distal histidine in the family. The father and the mother had α-genotype of --SEA/αα and αDG-Nanchengα/αα, respectively; while the proband inherited both mutant alleles (--SEA/αDG-Nanchengα). Sequencing of cDNA from HBA2 gene identified an equal ratio of normal and mutant alleles. CONCLUSION This rare case highlighted the importance of identifying rare haemoglobin variant during prenatal screening. The clinical and genetic data provides useful information on the pathogenicity of this variant and further insight into the role of distal histidine residue of α-globin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manna Sun
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecolog, Dongguan Maternal and Children Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiwu Lou
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Dongguan Maternal and Children Health Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Genetic Disorder Prenatal Testing Precision medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wang Xinghe
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecolog, Dongguan Maternal and Children Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Dongguan Maternal and Children Health Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Genetic Disorder Prenatal Testing Precision medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunshi Dai
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Dongguan Maternal and Children Health Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Genetic Disorder Prenatal Testing Precision medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangai Liu
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Dongguan Maternal and Children Health Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Genetic Disorder Prenatal Testing Precision medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tizhen Yan
- Prenatal Diagnostic Center, Dongguan Maternal and Children Health Hospital, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Genetic Disorder Prenatal Testing Precision medicine, Dongguan, People's Republic of China
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Mosca A, Paleari R, Palazzi G, Pancaldi A, Iughetti L, Venturelli D, Rolla R, Pavanello E, Ceriotti F, Ammirabile M, Capri S, Piga A, Ivaldi G. Screening for sickle cell disease: focus on newborn investigations. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1804-1813. [PMID: 38888156 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2024-0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Drepanocytosis is a genetic disease relevant for its epidemiological, clinical and socio-economic aspects. In our country the prevalence is highly uneven with peaks in former malaria areas, but migration flows in recent years have led to significant changes. In this document we review the screening programs currently existing in Italy with particular emphasis on newborn screening, which in other countries around the world, including within Europe, is at most universal and mandatory. The essential laboratory issues are reviewed, from sampling aspects (cord blood or peripheral), to the analytical (analytical methods dedicated to neonatal screening and adult carrier detection) and post analytical (reporting, informative) ones. An economic analysis based on data collected in the province of Modena is also proposed, clearly showing that neonatal screening is also beneficial from an economic point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mosca
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Renata Paleari
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Palazzi
- Pediatric Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessia Pancaldi
- Pediatric Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- Pediatric Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - Donatella Venturelli
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberta Rolla
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, A.O.U. "Maggiore della carità", Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Enza Pavanello
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Ceriotti
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, SC Patologia Clinica, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Ammirabile
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, SC Patologia Clinica, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Capri
- School of Economics and Management, Cattaneo-LIUC University, Varese, Italy
| | - Antonio Piga
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ivaldi
- Formerly Laboratorio di Genetica Umana, Ospedali Galliera, Genova, Italy
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Palanki R, Riley JS, Bose SK, Luks V, Dave A, Kus N, White BM, Ricciardi AS, Swingle KL, Xue L, Sung D, Thatte AS, Safford HC, Chaluvadi VS, Carpenter M, Han EL, Maganti R, Hamilton AG, Mrksich K, Billingsley MB, Zoltick PW, Alameh MG, Weissman D, Mitchell MJ, Peranteau WH. In utero delivery of targeted ionizable lipid nanoparticles facilitates in vivo gene editing of hematopoietic stem cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2400783121. [PMID: 39078677 PMCID: PMC11317576 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2400783121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Monogenic blood diseases are among the most common genetic disorders worldwide. These diseases result in significant pediatric and adult morbidity, and some can result in death prior to birth. Novel ex vivo hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) gene editing therapies hold tremendous promise to alter the therapeutic landscape but are not without potential limitations. In vivo gene editing therapies offer a potentially safer and more accessible treatment for these diseases but are hindered by a lack of delivery vectors targeting HSCs, which reside in the difficult-to-access bone marrow niche. Here, we propose that this biological barrier can be overcome by taking advantage of HSC residence in the easily accessible liver during fetal development. To facilitate the delivery of gene editing cargo to fetal HSCs, we developed an ionizable lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform targeting the CD45 receptor on the surface of HSCs. After validating that targeted LNPs improved messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) delivery to hematopoietic lineage cells via a CD45-specific mechanism in vitro, we demonstrated that this platform mediated safe, potent, and long-term gene modulation of HSCs in vivo in multiple mouse models. We further optimized this LNP platform in vitro to encapsulate and deliver CRISPR-based nucleic acid cargos. Finally, we showed that optimized and targeted LNPs enhanced gene editing at a proof-of-concept locus in fetal HSCs after a single in utero intravenous injection. By targeting HSCs in vivo during fetal development, our Systematically optimized Targeted Editing Machinery (STEM) LNPs may provide a translatable strategy to treat monogenic blood diseases before birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Palanki
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - John S. Riley
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Sourav K. Bose
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Valerie Luks
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Apeksha Dave
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Nicole Kus
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Brandon M. White
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Adele S. Ricciardi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Kelsey L. Swingle
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Lulu Xue
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Derek Sung
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Ajay S. Thatte
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Hannah C. Safford
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Venkata S. Chaluvadi
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Marco Carpenter
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Emily L. Han
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Rohin Maganti
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Alex G. Hamilton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Kaitlin Mrksich
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | | | - Philip W. Zoltick
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh
- Department of Pathology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Michael J. Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - William H. Peranteau
- Center for Fetal Research, Division of General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA19104
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Feng Q, Li Q, Zhou H, Wang Z, Lin C, Jiang Z, Liu T, Wang D. CRISPR technology in human diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e672. [PMID: 39081515 PMCID: PMC11286548 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.672] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Gene editing is a growing gene engineering technique that allows accurate editing of a broad spectrum of gene-regulated diseases to achieve curative treatment and also has the potential to be used as an adjunct to the conventional treatment of diseases. Gene editing technology, mainly based on clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein systems, which is capable of generating genetic modifications in somatic cells, provides a promising new strategy for gene therapy for a wide range of human diseases. Currently, gene editing technology shows great application prospects in a variety of human diseases, not only in therapeutic potential but also in the construction of animal models of human diseases. This paper describes the application of gene editing technology in hematological diseases, solid tumors, immune disorders, ophthalmological diseases, and metabolic diseases; focuses on the therapeutic strategies of gene editing technology in sickle cell disease; provides an overview of the role of gene editing technology in the construction of animal models of human diseases; and discusses the limitations of gene editing technology in the treatment of diseases, which is intended to provide an important reference for the applications of gene editing technology in the human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Feng
- Laboratory Animal CenterCollege of Animal ScienceJilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Research and Development CentreBaicheng Medical CollegeBaichengChina
| | - Qirong Li
- Laboratory Animal CenterCollege of Animal ScienceJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Hengzong Zhou
- Laboratory Animal CenterCollege of Animal ScienceJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Zhan Wang
- Laboratory Animal CenterCollege of Animal ScienceJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Chao Lin
- School of Grain Science and TechnologyJilin Business and Technology CollegeChangchunChina
| | - Ziping Jiang
- Department of Hand and Foot SurgeryThe First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Tianjia Liu
- Research and Development CentreBaicheng Medical CollegeBaichengChina
| | - Dongxu Wang
- Laboratory Animal CenterCollege of Animal ScienceJilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Department of Hand and Foot SurgeryThe First Hospital of Jilin UniversityChangchunChina
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5
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Schipper A, Rutten M, van Gammeren A, Harteveld CL, Urrechaga E, Weerkamp F, den Besten G, Krabbe J, Slomp J, Schoonen L, Broeren M, van Wijnen M, Huijskens MJAJ, Koopmann T, van Ginneken B, Kusters R, Kurstjens S. Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Hemoglobinopathies Using Complete Blood Count Data. Clin Chem 2024; 70:1064-1075. [PMID: 38906831 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvae081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemoglobinopathies, the most common inherited blood disorder, are frequently underdiagnosed. Early identification of carriers is important for genetic counseling of couples at risk. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a novel machine learning model on a multicenter data set, covering a wide spectrum of hemoglobinopathies based on routine complete blood count (CBC) testing. METHODS Hemoglobinopathy test results from 10 322 adults were extracted retrospectively from 8 Dutch laboratories. eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) and logistic regression models were developed to differentiate negative from positive hemoglobinopathy cases, using 7 routine CBC parameters. External validation was conducted on a data set from an independent Dutch laboratory, with an additional external validation on a Spanish data set (n = 2629) specifically for differentiating thalassemia from iron deficiency anemia (IDA). RESULTS The XGB and logistic regression models achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.88 and 0.84, respectively, in distinguishing negative from positive hemoglobinopathy cases in the independent external validation set. Subclass analysis showed that the XGB model reached an AUROC of 0.97 for β-thalassemia, 0.98 for α0-thalassemia, 0.95 for homozygous α+-thalassemia, 0.78 for heterozygous α+-thalassemia, and 0.94 for the structural hemoglobin variants Hemoglobin C, Hemoglobin D, Hemoglobin E. Both models attained AUROCs of 0.95 in differentiating IDA from thalassemia. CONCLUSIONS Both the XGB and logistic regression model demonstrate high accuracy in predicting a broad range of hemoglobinopathies and are effective in differentiating hemoglobinopathies from IDA. Integration of these models into the laboratory information system facilitates automated hemoglobinopathy detection using routine CBC parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoeska Schipper
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital's, Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
- Diagnostic Image Analysis Group, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Matthieu Rutten
- Diagnostic Image Analysis Group, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Radiology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital's, Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
| | - Adriaan van Gammeren
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis L Harteveld
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Laboratory for Genome Diagnostics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Eloísa Urrechaga
- Laboratory of Hematology, Hospital Universitario Galdakao Usansolo, Galdakao, Spain
| | - Floor Weerkamp
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gijs den Besten
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Isala Hospital, Zwolle, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes Krabbe
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, Medisch Spectrum Twente/Medlon BV, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jennichjen Slomp
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, Medisch Spectrum Twente/Medlon BV, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Lise Schoonen
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Broeren
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Máxima Medical Center, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Merel van Wijnen
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, the Netherlands
| | - Mirelle J A J Huijskens
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard/Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Tamara Koopmann
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Laboratory for Genome Diagnostics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bram van Ginneken
- Diagnostic Image Analysis Group, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Ron Kusters
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital's, Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
- Department of Health Technology and Services Research, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Steef Kurstjens
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Hematology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital's, Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands
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Achour A, Knijnenburg J, Koopmann T, Raz A, Tischkowitz M, Coates TD, Baas F, Harteveld CL. Moderate-severe beta-thalassemia intermedia phenotype caused by sextuplicated alpha-globin gene allele in two beta-thalassemia carriers. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:1655-1658. [PMID: 38817045 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahlem Achour
- Department of clinical genetics/LDGA, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Congenital and Hereditary Diseases, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jeroen Knijnenburg
- Department of clinical genetics/LDGA, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tamara Koopmann
- Department of clinical genetics/LDGA, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amir Raz
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Brain and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Marc Tischkowitz
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas D Coates
- Hematology Section, Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - F Baas
- Department of clinical genetics/LDGA, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C L Harteveld
- Department of clinical genetics/LDGA, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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7
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Dordevic A, Ugrin M, Sutic IM, Roganovic J, Pavlovic S. The Relevance of β-Thalassemia Heterozygosity in Pediatric Clinical Practice: Croatian Experience. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:785. [PMID: 39062234 PMCID: PMC11276433 DOI: 10.3390/children11070785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
(1) Background: Thalassemia syndromes are common monogenic disorders that represent a significant global health issue. No systematic epidemiological or molecular investigations on thalassemias in the Croatian population have been reported to date. (2) Methods: This prospective study included 70 children with a presumptive diagnosis of thalassemia and their 42 first-degree relatives. Molecular characterization was performed using direct sequencing and gap-PCR methods. (3) Results: We identified 46 (30 children and 16 first-degree relatives) β-thalassemia heterozygous carriers from 24 unrelated families, carrying eight different mutations and one hemoglobin variant. Five variants account for approximately 85% of all affected β-globin alleles: Hb Lepore-Boston-Washington (32.6%), HBB:c.93-21G>A (19.6%), HBB:c.315+1G>A (13.1%), HBB:c.92+1G>A (10.9%), and HBB:c.92+6T>C (8.7%) variants. (4) Conclusions: β-thalassemia carriers need more detailed genetic profiling since genetic modifiers can significantly impact their phenotype. Our study provides important new insights into the relevance of β-thalassemia heterozygosity in pediatric clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Dordevic
- Jadran Galenski Laboratorij, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| | - Milena Ugrin
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.U.); (S.P.)
| | | | - Jelena Roganovic
- Children’s Hospital Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Drug Development, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Sonja Pavlovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.U.); (S.P.)
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8
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Salvatici M, Caslini C, Alesci S, Arosio G, Meroni G, Ceriotti F, Ammirabile M, Drago L. The Application of Clinical and Molecular Diagnostic Techniques to Identify a Rare Haemoglobin Variant. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6781. [PMID: 38928486 PMCID: PMC11204072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Haemoglobin disorders represent a heterogeneous group of inherited conditions that involve at least one genetic abnormality in one or more of the globin chains, resulting in changes in the structure, function, and/or amount of haemoglobin molecules, which are very important for their related clinical aspects. Detecting and characterizing these disorders depends primarily on laboratory methods that employ traditional approaches and, when necessary, newer methodologies essential for solving a number of diagnostic challenges. This review provides an overview of key laboratory techniques in the diagnosis of haemoglobinopathies, focusing on the challenges, advancements, and future directions in this field. Moreover, many haemoglobinopathies are benign and clinically silent, but it is not uncommon to find unexpected variants during routine laboratory tests. The present work reported a rare and clinically interesting case of identification of haemoglobin fractions in an adult man by the determination of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) during a routine laboratory assessment, highlighting how the correct use of laboratory data can modify and improve the patient's clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Salvatici
- UOC Laboratory of Clinical Medicine with Specialized Areas, IRCCS MultiMedica, Via Fantoli 16/15, 20138 Milan, Italy;
| | - Cecilia Caslini
- Bianalisi, Clinical Laboratory, Via Mattavelli 3, 20841 Carate Brianza, Italy; (C.C.); (S.A.); (G.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Simona Alesci
- Bianalisi, Clinical Laboratory, Via Mattavelli 3, 20841 Carate Brianza, Italy; (C.C.); (S.A.); (G.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Grazia Arosio
- Bianalisi, Clinical Laboratory, Via Mattavelli 3, 20841 Carate Brianza, Italy; (C.C.); (S.A.); (G.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Giuliana Meroni
- Bianalisi, Clinical Laboratory, Via Mattavelli 3, 20841 Carate Brianza, Italy; (C.C.); (S.A.); (G.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Ferruccio Ceriotti
- Clinical Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Massimiliano Ammirabile
- Clinical Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (F.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Lorenzo Drago
- UOC Laboratory of Clinical Medicine with Specialized Areas, IRCCS MultiMedica, Via Fantoli 16/15, 20138 Milan, Italy;
- Clinical Microbiology and Microbiome Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
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9
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Chen YP, Wang H, Wang L, Xie D, Guo M, Wu JF, An BQ, Huang SW. Identification of Novel Hb Guiyang [HBA2: c.151C > A α2 50 (CE8) His- Asn] and Phenotype- Genotype Correlation of Abnormal Hemoglobins in Guizhou, Southwest China. J Blood Med 2024; 15:265-273. [PMID: 38895162 PMCID: PMC11185251 DOI: 10.2147/jbm.s458057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyze the composition of abnormal hemoglobin and the relationship between genotype and phenotype by screening abnormal hemoglobin in a subpopulation of Guizhou, China. Patients and Methods Routine blood evaluation, capillary electrophoresis of hemoglobin, and mutation of α - and β - thalassemia genes were evaluated in 19,976 individuals for thalassemia screening in Guizhou. Sanger sequencing of HBA1, HBA2 and HBB genes was performed in samples with abnormal bands or unexplained increases of normal bands. The types of abnormal hemoglobin were obtained by sequence analysis. Results Abnormal hemoglobin was detected in 84 individuals (detection rate, 0.42%). Ten types each of α and β globin chain variants were detected, including most commonly Hb E, Hb New York and Hb Port Phillip. In this study, the abnormal Hb Mizuho was identified for the first time in a Chinese population, and a novel abnormal hemoglobin Hb Guiyang (HBA2: c.151C > A) was detected for the first time. Except for Hb Mizuho, other abnormal hemoglobin heterozygotes without thalassemia or iron deficiency had no significant hematological changes. Conclusion This study enriched the molecular epidemiological data of abnormal hemoglobin in Guizhou, China and provided reference data for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis of abnormal hemoglobin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ping Chen
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Heng Wang
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guiyang Public Health Clinical Center, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Wang
- Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Xie
- Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Guo
- Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Fen Wu
- Medical Genetics Department, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bang-Quan An
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Wen Huang
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
- Medical Genetics Department, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, People’s Republic of China
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10
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Locatelli F, Cavazzana M, Frangoul H, Fuente JDL, Algeri M, Meisel R. Autologous gene therapy for hemoglobinopathies: From bench to patient's bedside. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1202-1218. [PMID: 38454604 PMCID: PMC11081872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a growing number of clinical trials have been initiated to evaluate gene therapy approaches for the treatment of patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD). Therapeutic modalities being assessed in these trials utilize different molecular techniques, including lentiviral vectors to add functional copies of the gene encoding the hemoglobin β subunit in defective cells and CRISPR-Cas9, transcription activator-like effector protein nuclease, and zinc finger nuclease gene editing strategies to either directly address the underlying genetic cause of disease or induce fetal hemoglobin production by gene disruption. Here, we review the mechanisms of action of these various gene addition and gene editing approaches and describe the status of clinical trials designed to evaluate the potentially for these approaches to provide one-time functional cures to patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia and SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Marina Cavazzana
- Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), University of Paris, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Haydar Frangoul
- Sarah Cannon Center for Blood Cancer at The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | - Josu de la Fuente
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St Mary's Hospital, London W21NY, UK
| | - Mattia Algeri
- Department of Pediatric Haematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roland Meisel
- Division of Pediatric Stem Cell Therapy, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
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11
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Di Paola A, Marrapodi MM, Di Martino M, Giliberti G, Di Feo G, Rana D, Ahmed S, Argenziano M, Rossi F, Roberti D. Bone Health Impairment in Patients with Hemoglobinopathies: From Biological Bases to New Possible Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2902. [PMID: 38474150 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hemoglobinopathies are monogenic disorders affecting hemoglobin synthesis. Thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) are considered the two major hemoglobinopathies. Thalassemia is a genetic disorder and one of the major hemoglobinopathies determined by an impairment of globin chain production, which causes an alteration of erythropoiesis, an improvement in hemolysis, and an alteration of iron homoeostasis. In SCD, the mutations are on the β-globin chain of hemoglobin which results in a substitution of glutamic acid by valine with consequent formation of Hemoglobin S (HbS). Several factors are involved in bone metabolism alteration in patients with hemoglobinopathies, among them hormonal deficiency, bone marrow hyperplasia, iron overload, inflammation, and increased bone turnover. Bone metabolism is the result of balance maintenance between bone deposition and bone resorption, by osteoblasts (OBs) and osteoclasts (OCs). An impairment of this balance is responsible for the onset of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis (OP). Therefore, here we will discuss the alteration of bone metabolism in patients with hemoglobinopathies and the possible therapeutic strategies to contain and/or counteract bone health impairment in these patients, taking into consideration not only the pharmacological treatments already used in the clinical armamentarium, but also the new possible therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Di Paola
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Marrapodi
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Di Martino
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Giliberti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Feo
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Deeksha Rana
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Shakeel Ahmed
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maura Argenziano
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Rossi
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Roberti
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
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12
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Koniali L, Flouri C, Kostopoulou MI, Papaioannou NY, Papasavva PL, Naiisseh B, Stephanou C, Demetriadou A, Sitarou M, Christou S, Antoniou MN, Kleanthous M, Patsali P, Lederer CW. Evaluation of Mono- and Bi-Functional GLOBE-Based Vectors for Therapy of β-Thalassemia by HBBAS3 Gene Addition and Mutation-Specific RNA Interference. Cells 2023; 12:2848. [PMID: 38132168 PMCID: PMC10741507 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242848] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapy via the gene addition of the anti-sickling βAS3-globin transgene is potentially curative for all β-hemoglobinopathies and therefore of particular clinical and commercial interest. This study investigates GLOBE-based lentiviral vectors (LVs) for βAS3-globin addition and evaluates strategies for an increased β-like globin expression without vector dose escalation. First, we report the development of a GLOBE-derived LV, GLV2-βAS3, which, compared to its parental vector, adds anti-sickling action and a transcription-enhancing 848-bp transcription terminator element, retains high vector titers and allows for superior β-like globin expression in primary patient-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Second, prompted by our previous correction of HBBIVSI-110(G>A) thalassemia based on RNApol(III)-driven shRNAs in mono- and combination therapy, we analyzed a series of novel LVs for the RNApol(II)-driven constitutive or late-erythroid expression of HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific miRNA30-embedded shRNAs (shRNAmiR). This included bifunctional LVs, allowing for concurrent βAS3-globin expression. LVs were initially compared for their ability to achieve high β-like globin expression in HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-transgenic cells, before the evaluation of shortlisted candidate LVs in HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-homozygous HSPCs. The latter revealed that β-globin promoter-driven designs for monotherapy with HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific shRNAmiRs only marginally increased β-globin levels compared to untransduced cells, whereas bifunctional LVs combining miR30-shRNA with βAS3-globin expression showed disease correction similar to that achieved by the parental GLV2-βAS3 vector. Our results establish the feasibility of high titers for LVs containing the full HBB transcription terminator, emphasize the importance of the HBB terminator for the high-level expression of HBB-like transgenes, qualify the therapeutic utility of late-erythroid HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific miR30-shRNA expression and highlight the exceptional potential of GLV2-βAS3 for the treatment of severe β-hemoglobinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lola Koniali
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Christina Flouri
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.F.); (M.N.A.)
| | - Markela I. Kostopoulou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Nikoletta Y. Papaioannou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Panayiota L. Papasavva
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Basma Naiisseh
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Coralea Stephanou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Anthi Demetriadou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Maria Sitarou
- Thalassemia Clinic Larnaca, Larnaca General Hospital, 6301 Larnaca, Cyprus;
| | - Soteroula Christou
- Thalassemia Clinic Nicosia, Archbishop Makarios III Hospital, 1474 Nicosia, Cyprus;
| | - Michael N. Antoniou
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.F.); (M.N.A.)
| | - Marina Kleanthous
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Petros Patsali
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Carsten W. Lederer
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
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13
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de Paula CP, de Oliveira da Silva JPM, Romanello KS, Bernardo VS, Torres FF, da Silva DGH, da Cunha AF. Peroxiredoxins in erythrocytes: far beyond the antioxidant role. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:1335-1353. [PMID: 37728644 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02368-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The red blood cells (RBCs) are essential to transport oxygen (O2) and nutrients throughout the human body. Changes in the structure or functioning of the erythrocytes can lead to several deficiencies, such as hemolytic anemias, in which an increase in reactive oxidative species generation is involved in the pathophysiological process, playing a significant role in the severity of several clinical manifestations. There are important lines of defense against the damage caused by oxidizing molecules. Among the antioxidant molecules, the enzyme peroxiredoxin (Prx) has the higher decomposition power of hydrogen peroxide, especially in RBCs, standing out because of its abundance. This review aimed to present the recent findings that broke some paradigms regarding the three isoforms of Prxs found in RBC (Prx1, Prx2, and Prx6), showing that in addition to their antioxidant activity, these enzymes may have supplementary roles in transducing peroxide signals, as molecular chaperones, protecting from membrane damage, and maintenance of iron homeostasis, thus contributing to the overall survival of human RBCs, roles that seen to be disrupted in hemolytic anemia conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Peres de Paula
- Genetics and Evolution Department, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
- Biotechnology Graduate Program, Exact and Technology Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
| | - João Pedro Maia de Oliveira da Silva
- Genetics and Evolution Department, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
- Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Karen Simone Romanello
- Genetics and Evolution Department, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
- Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | | | | | - Danilo Grünig Humberto da Silva
- Department of Biology, Paulista State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campus de Três Lagoas, Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Anderson Ferreira da Cunha
- Genetics and Evolution Department, Biological and Health Sciences Center, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
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14
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Dan AO, Bălășoiu AT, Puiu I, Tănasie AC, Târtea AE, Sfredel V. Retinal Microvascular Alterations in a Patient with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Hemoglobin D Hemoglobinopathy, and High Myopia-Case Report and Review of the Literature. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2934. [PMID: 37761301 PMCID: PMC10527753 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13182934] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (type 1 DM) is one of the most prevalent endocrinological diseases among children and young adults, with a growing incidence rate reaching up to 2.9 new cases per year per 100,000 persons below 15 years of age. We report a rare case of a 20-year-old female patient with type 1 DM, hemoglobin D (HbD) heterozygote variant and high myopia of -10.00 spheric diopters, and describe the retinal microvascular alterations visible on OCT angiography (angio-OCT). The patient also presented with a severe stature deficit (less than three standard deviations) and delayed puberty, which could not be explained only by suboptimal glycemic control and indicated possible hypopituitarism. HbA1c level evaluated with the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was 6.5%, a falsely low value due to HbD hemoglobinopathy. On ophthalmic evaluation, the angio-OCT scan showed the following retinal microvascular alterations in the right eye (RE): the FAZ (Foveal Avascular Zone) area was 0.39 mm2, the FAZ perimeter was 2.88 mm, and the circularity index was 0.58. The following alterations were shown in the left eye (LE): the FAZ area was 0.34 mm2, the FAZ perimeter was 3.21 mm, and the circularity index was 0.41. Clinicians should consider high-performance retinal screening methods such as angio-OCT evaluation for young type 1 DM patients, especially for those with associated pathologies like high myopia and hemoglobinopathies. Moreover, multiple evaluation methods of HbA1c values are mandatory as hemoglobinopathies can interfere with the accuracy of HbA1c assay methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Oltea Dan
- Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Andrei Theodor Bălășoiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ileana Puiu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Andreea Cornelia Tănasie
- Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Elena Târtea
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Veronica Sfredel
- Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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15
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Bohn E, Lau TTY, Wagih O, Masud T, Merico D. A curated census of pathogenic and likely pathogenic UTR variants and evaluation of deep learning models for variant effect prediction. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1257550. [PMID: 37745687 PMCID: PMC10517338 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1257550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Variants in 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTR) contribute to rare disease. While predictive algorithms to assist in classifying pathogenicity can potentially be highly valuable, the utility of these tools is often unclear, as it depends on carefully selected training and validation conditions. To address this, we developed a high confidence set of pathogenic (P) and likely pathogenic (LP) variants and assessed deep learning (DL) models for predicting their molecular effects. Methods: 3' and 5' UTR variants documented as P or LP (P/LP) were obtained from ClinVar and refined by reviewing the annotated variant effect and reassessing evidence of pathogenicity following published guidelines. Prediction scores from sequence-based DL models were compared between three groups: P/LP variants acting though the mechanism for which the model was designed (model-matched), those operating through other mechanisms (model-mismatched), and putative benign variants. PhyloP was used to compare conservation scores between P/LP and putative benign variants. Results: 295 3' and 188 5' UTR variants were obtained from ClinVar, of which 26 3' and 68 5' UTR variants were classified as P/LP. Predictions by DL models achieved statistically significant differences when comparing modelmatched P/LP variants to both putative benign variants and modelmismatched P/LP variants, as well as when comparing all P/LP variants to putative benign variants. PhyloP conservation scores were significantly higher among P/LP compared to putative benign variants for both the 3' and 5' UTR. Discussion: In conclusion, we present a high-confidence set of P/LP 3' and 5' UTR variants spanning a range of mechanisms and supported by detailed pathogenicity and molecular mechanism evidence curation. Predictions from DL models further substantiate these classifications. These datasets will support further development and validation of DL algorithms designed to predict the functional impact of variants that may be implicated in rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bohn
- Deep Genomics Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Daniele Merico
- Deep Genomics Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Centre for Applied Genomics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
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16
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Lenz J, Brehm A. Conserved mechanisms of NuRD function in hematopoetic gene expression. Enzymes 2023; 53:7-32. [PMID: 37748838 DOI: 10.1016/bs.enz.2023.07.006] [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: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The Nucleosome Remodeling and Deacetylating Complex (NuRD) is ubiquitously expressed in all metazoans. It combines nucleosome remodeling and histone deacetylating activities to generate inaccessible chromatin structures and to repress gene transcription. NuRD is involved in the generation and maintenance of a wide variety of lineage-specific gene expression programs during differentiation and in differentiated cells. A close cooperation with a large number of lineage-specific transcription factors is key to allow NuRD to function in many distinct differentiation contexts. The molecular nature of this interplay between transcription factors and NuRD is complex and not well understood. This review uses hematopoiesis as a paradigm to highlight recent advances in our understanding of how transcription factors and NuRD cooperate at the molecular level during differentiation. A comparison of vertebrate and invertebrate systems serves to identify the conserved and fundamental concepts guiding functional interactions between transcription factors and NuRD. We also discuss how the transcription factor-NuRD axis constitutes a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of hemoglobinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lenz
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Tumor Research, Biomedical Research Center, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Brehm
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Tumor Research, Biomedical Research Center, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
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17
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A Particular Focus on the Prevalence of α- and β-Thalassemia in Western Sicilian Population from Trapani Province in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054809. [PMID: 36902239 PMCID: PMC10002525 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054809] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Thalassemia is a Mendelian inherited blood disease caused by α- and β-globin gene mutations, known as one of the major health problems of Mediterranean populations. Here, we examined the distribution of α- and β-globin gene defects in the Trapani province population. A total of 2,401 individuals from Trapani province were enrolled from January 2007 to December 2021, and routine methodologies were used for detecting the α- and β-globin genic variants. Appropriate analysis was also performed. Eight mutations in the α globin gene showed the highest frequency in the sample studied; three of these genetic variants represented the 94% of the total α-thalassemia mutations observed, including the -α3.7 deletion (76%), and the tripling of the α gene (12%) and of the α2 point mutation IVS1-5nt (6%). For the β-globin gene, 12 mutations were detected, six of which constituted 83.4% of the total number of β-thalassemia defects observed, including codon β039 (38%), IVS1.6 T > C (15.6%), IVS1.110 G > A (11.8%), IVS1.1 G > A (11%), IVS2.745 C > G (4%), and IVS2.1 G > A (3%). However, the comparison of these frequencies with those detected in the population of other Sicilian provinces did not demonstrate significant differences, but it contrarily revealed a similitude. The data presented in this retrospective study help provide a picture of the prevalence of defects on the α and β-globin genes in the province of Trapani. The identification of mutations in globin genes in a population is required for carrier screening and for an accurate prenatal diagnosis. It is important and necessary to continue promoting public awareness campaigns and screening programs.
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18
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Dursun FE, Özen F. SMPD1 gene variants in patients with β-Thalassemia major. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:3355-3363. [PMID: 36725747 PMCID: PMC10042979 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08275-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND β-thalassemia major and Niemann-Pick diseases have similar clinical and laboratory findings. We aimed to investigate the effects of sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 1 (SMPD1) gene variants on the clinical and laboratory findings in patients with β-thalassemia major. METHODS AND RESULTS This study included 45 patients who were followed up for β-thalassemia major in our clinic. Plasma chitotriosidase, leukocyte acid sphingomyelinase, liver enzymes, ferritin, hemogram, biochemical parameters, SMPD1 gene variant analysis, cardiac T2* MRI, and liver R2 MRI were assessed in all patients. The SMPD1 gene c.132_143del, p.A46_L49del (c.108GCTGGC[4] (p.38AL[4])) (rs3838786) variant was detected in 9 of 45 (20.0%) patients. Plasma chitotriosidase, ferritin, acetyl aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase levels were significantly higher in patients with the gene variant than in those without (p < 0.05). Leukocyte acid sphingomyelinase levels were significantly lower in patients with the gene variant than in those without (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION These results imply that the clinical and laboratory findings and some features of disease progression in patients with β-thalassemia major are similar to those of Niemann-Pick disease. They also suggest that SMPD1 gene c.132_143del, p.A46_L49del (c.108GCTGGC[4] (p.38AL[4])) (rs3838786) variant may underlie these clinical findings in patients with β-thalassemia major.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadime Ersoy Dursun
- Department of Hematology, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Yalçın City Hospital, Eğitim mah, Dr. Erkin Cd. No:161/1, 34722, Kadıköy, İstanbul, Turkey.
| | - Filiz Özen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Prof. Dr. Süleyman Yalçın City Hospital, Kadıköy, İstanbul, Turkey
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