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Wong SSN, Yuen LYP, Kan E, Blau N, Rodenburg R, Lam CW, Wong VCN, Mochel F, Wevers RA, Fung CW. CYP2U1: An emerging treatable neurometabolic disease with cerebral folate deficiency in 2 Chinese brothers. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2024; 38:101023. [PMID: 38058766 PMCID: PMC10696413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2023.101023] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of medical technologies in genomic and molecular medicine, the number of treatable neurometabolic diseases is quickly expanding. Spastic paraplegia 56 (SPG56), one of the severe autosomal recessive forms of neurodegenerative disorders caused by pathogenic variants in the CYP2U1 gene, has no reported specific targeted treatment yet. Here we report 2 Chinese brothers with CYP2U1 bi-allelic pathogenic variants with cerebral folate deficiency who were treated for over a decade with folinic acid supplement. Patients have remained stable under therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Suet-Na Wong
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Liz Yuet-Ping Yuen
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Elaine Kan
- Department of Radiology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nenad Blau
- Divisions of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Richard Rodenburg
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory, Department Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Ching-wan Lam
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Virginia Chun-Nei Wong
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fanny Mochel
- AP-HP, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Department of Medical Genetics, Reference Centers for Adult Neurometabolic Diseases and Adult Leukodystrophies, Paris, France
- INSERM U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Paris, France
| | - Ron A. Wevers
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory, Department Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Cheuk-Wing Fung
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
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Wells L, O'Hara N, Frye RE, Hullavard N, Smith E. Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies in the Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) Population. J Pers Med 2024; 14:166. [PMID: 38392599 PMCID: PMC10890663 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14020166] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The folate receptor alpha autoantibodies (FRAAs) are associated with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Both of these syndromes have overlapping characteristics with Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). Thus, we propose that the FRAAs may contribute to the symptomatology of PANS/PANDAS. To test this hypothesis, 1 mL of serum from 47 patients (age range = 6-18 years old) clinically diagnosed with PANS/PANDAS was sent to Vascular Strategies (Plymouth Meeting, PA, USA) for analysis of FRAAs. Moreover, 63.8% of PANS/PANDAS patients (male = 15; female = 15) were found to have either the blocking and/or blinding FRAAs, with 25 (83.3%; male = 14; female = 11) having binding FRAAs, two (6.7%; all female = 2) having blocking FRAAs, and 3 (10%; male = 1; female = 2) having both binding and blocking. Furthermore, surprisingly, ASD was associated with a 0.76 lower binding titer (p = 0.02), and severe tics were associated with a 0.90 higher binding titer (p = 0.01). A case of a FRAA-positive patient is provided to illustrate that a treatment plan including leucovorin can result in symptom improvement in patients with PANS/PANDAS who are FRAA-positive. These data, for the first time, demonstrate that PANS/PANDAS is associated with FRAAs and suggest folate metabolism abnormalities may contribute to PANS/PANDAS symptomatology. Further studies investigating the therapeutic nature of leucovorin in the treatment of PANS/PANDAS are needed. Such studies may open up an alternative, safe, and well-tolerated treatment for those with the PANS/PANDAS diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy O'Hara
- Nancy O'Hara and Associates LLC, Wilton, CT 06897, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
| | | | - Erica Smith
- Natural Pediatrics of CT, Stamford, CT 06905, USA
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Gogu AE, Jianu DC, Parv F, Motoc AGM, Axelerad A, Stuparu AZ, Gogu AA. Case report: Clinical profile, molecular genetics, and neuroimaging findings presenting in a patient with Kearns-Sayre syndrome associated with inherited thrombophilia. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1320757. [PMID: 38249739 PMCID: PMC10799339 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1320757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Kearns-Sayre syndrome (KSS) is classified as one of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletion syndromes with multisystemic involvement. Additionally, the negative prognosis is associated with inherited thrombophilia, which includes the presence of homozygous Factor V G1691A Leiden mutation, MTHFR gene polymorphisms C677T and A1298C, and PAI-1 675 homozygous genotype 5G/5G. Case presentation This case report presents a 48-year-old man with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia, bilateral ptosis, cerebellar ataxia, cardiovascular signs (syncope, dilated cardiomyopathy, and cardiac arrest) with electrocardiographic abnormalities (first-degree atrioventricular block and major right bundle branch block), endocrine dysfunction (short stature, growth hormone insufficiency, primary gonadal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, and secondary hyperparathyroidism), molecular genetic tests (MT-TL2 gene), and abnormal MRI brain images, thus leading to the diagnosis of KSS. The patient came back 4 weeks after the diagnosis to the emergency department with massive bilateral pulmonary embolism with syncope at onset, acute cardiorespiratory failure, deep left femoral-popliteal vein thrombophlebitis, and altered neurological status. In the intensive care unit, he received mechanical ventilation through intubation. Significant improvement was seen after 2 weeks. The patient tested positive for inherited thrombophilia and was discharged in stable conditions on a new treatment with Rivaroxaban 20 mg/day. At 6 months of follow-up, ECG-Holter monitoring and MRI brain images remained unchanged. However, after 3 months, the patient died suddenly while sleeping at home. Conclusion The genetic tests performed on KSS patients should also include those for inherited thrombophilia. By detecting these mutations, we can prevent major complications such as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, coronary accidents, or sudden death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Elena Gogu
- Department of Neurology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (Neuropsy-Cog), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Dragos Catalin Jianu
- Department of Neurology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (Neuropsy-Cog), Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Florina Parv
- Department of Cardiology, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
| | | | - Any Axelerad
- Department of Neurology, General Medicine Faculty, “Ovidius” University, Constanța, Romania
| | - Alina Zorina Stuparu
- Department of Neurology, General Medicine Faculty, “Ovidius” University, Constanța, Romania
| | - Andreea Alexandra Gogu
- Medicine Faculty, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara, Romania
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Frye RE, McCarty PJ, Werner BA, Scheck AC, Collins HL, Adelman SJ, Rossignol DA, Quadros EV. Binding Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibody Is a Biomarker for Leucovorin Treatment Response in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2024; 14:62. [PMID: 38248763 PMCID: PMC10820361 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects up to 1 in 36 children in the United States. It is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with life-long consequences. Patients with ASD and folate pathway abnormalities have demonstrated improved symptoms after treatment with leucovorin (folinic acid), a reduced form of folate. However, biomarkers for treatment response have not been well investigated and clinical trials are lacking. In this retrospective analysis, a cohort of prospectively collected data from 110 consecutive ASD clinic patients [mean (SD) age: 10.5 (6.2) years; 74% male] was examined. These patients all underwent testing for folate receptor alpha autoantibodies (FRAAs) and soluble folate binding proteins (sFBPs) biomarkers and were treated with leucovorin, if appropriate. Analyses examined whether these biomarkers could predict response to leucovorin treatment as well as the severity of ASD characteristics at baseline. The social responsiveness scale (SRS), a measure of core ASD symptoms, and the aberrant behavior checklist (ABC), a measure of disruptive behavior, were collected at each clinic visit. Those positive for sFBPs had more severe ASD symptoms, and higher binding FRAA titers were associated with greater ABC irritability. Treatment with leucovorin improved most SRS subscales with higher binding FRAA titers associated with greater response. Leucovorin treatment also improved ABC irritability. These results confirm and expand on previous studies, underscore the need for biomarkers to guide treatment of folate pathways in ASD, and suggest that leucovorin may be effective for children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Frye
- Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA;
| | | | | | - Adrienne C. Scheck
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine—Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA;
| | - Heidi L. Collins
- Vascular Strategies LLC, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, USA; (H.L.C.); (S.J.A.)
| | - Steven J. Adelman
- Vascular Strategies LLC, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462, USA; (H.L.C.); (S.J.A.)
| | - Daniel A. Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA;
- Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, USA
| | - Edward V. Quadros
- Department of Medicine, State University of New York—Downstate, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA;
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Qin XY, Ha SY, Chen L, Zhang T, Li MQ. Recent Advances in Folates and Autoantibodies against Folate Receptors in Early Pregnancy and Miscarriage. Nutrients 2023; 15:4882. [PMID: 38068740 PMCID: PMC10708193 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Though firstly identified in cerebral folate deficiency, autoantibodies against folate receptors (FRAbs) have been implicated in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage; however, the underlying mechanism needs to be further elaborated. FRAbs can be produced via sensitization mediated by folate-binding protein as well as gene mutation, aberrant modulation, or degradation of folate receptors (FRs). FRAbs may interfere with folate internalization and metabolism through blocking or binding with FRs. Interestingly, different types of FRs are expressed on trophoblast cells, decidual epithelium or stroma, and macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface, implying FRAbs may be involved in the critical events necessary for a successful pregnancy. Thus, we propose that FRAbs may disturb pregnancy establishment and maintenance by modulating trophoblastic biofunctions, placental development, decidualization, and decidua homeostasis as well as the functions of FOLR2+ macrophages. In light of these findings, FRAbs may be a critical factor in pathological pregnancy, and deserve careful consideration in therapies involving folic acid supplementation for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yun Qin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Lu Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
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Sangha V, Aboulhassane S, Qu QR, Bendayan R. Protective effects of pyrroloquinoline quinone in brain folate deficiency. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:84. [PMID: 37981683 PMCID: PMC10659058 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00488-3] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folates (Vitamin B9) are critical for normal neurodevelopment and function, with transport mediated by three major pathways: folate receptor alpha (FRα), proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT), and reduced folate carrier (RFC). Cerebral folate uptake primarily occurs at the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) through concerted actions of FRα and PCFT, with impaired folate transport resulting in the neurological disorder cerebral folate deficiency (CFD). Increasing evidence suggests that disorders associated with CFD also present with neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction, however the role of brain folate deficiency in inducing these abnormalities is not well-understood. Our laboratory has identified the upregulation of RFC by nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF-1) at the blood-brain barrier (BBB) once indirectly activated by the natural compound pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). PQQ is also of interest due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mitochondrial biogenesis effects. In this study, we examined the effects of folate deficiency and PQQ treatment on inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, and changes in mitochondrial function. METHODS Primary cultures of mouse mixed glial cells exposed to folate-deficient (FD) conditions and treated with PQQ were analyzed for changes in gene expression of the folate transporters, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content through qPCR analysis. Changes in cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were analyzed in vitro through a DCFDA assay. Wildtype (C57BL6/N) mice exposed to FD (0 mg/kg folate), or control (2 mg/kg folate) diets underwent a 10-day (20 mg/kg/day) PQQ treatment regimen and brain tissues were collected and analyzed. RESULTS Folate deficiency resulted in increased expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in vitro and in vivo, with increased cellular ROS levels observed in mixed glial cells as well as a reduction of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content observed in FD mixed glial cells. PQQ treatment was able to reverse these changes, while increasing RFC expression through activation of the PGC-1α/NRF-1 signaling pathway. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate the effects of brain folate deficiency, which may contribute to the neurological deficits commonly seen in disorders of CFD. PQQ may represent a novel treatment strategy for disorders associated with CFD, as it can increase folate uptake, while in parallel reversing many abnormalities that arise with brain folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Sangha
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Aboulhassane
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Qing Rui Qu
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Reina Bendayan
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Ramirez EL, Gibson JB, Jülich K. Vitamin-Dependent Genetic Disorders of Childhood. Pediatr Rev 2023; 44:618-631. [PMID: 37907415 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2022-005637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - James B Gibson
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School, Austin, TX
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Pan LA, Segreti AM, Wrobleski J, Shaw A, Hyland K, Hughes M, Finegold DN, Naviaux RK, Brent DA, Vockley J, Peters DG. Metabolomic disorders: confirmed presence of potentially treatable abnormalities in patients with treatment refractory depression and suicidal behavior. Psychol Med 2023; 53:6046-6054. [PMID: 36330595 PMCID: PMC10520591 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722003233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refractory depression is a devastating condition with significant morbidity, mortality, and societal cost. Approximately 15% of patients with major depressive disorder are refractory to currently available treatments. We hypothesized metabolic abnormalities contributing to treatment refractory depression are associated with distinct findings identifiable in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Our hypothesis was confirmed by a previous small case-controlled study. Here we present a second, larger replication study. METHODS We conducted a case-controlled, targeted, metabolomic evaluation of 141 adolescent and adult patients with well-characterized history of depression refractory to three maximum-dose, adequate-duration medication treatments, and 36 healthy controls. Plasma, urine, and CSF metabolic profiling were performed by coupled gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography, electrospray ionization, tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Abnormalities were identified in 67 of 141 treatment refractory depression participants. The CSF abnormalities included: low cerebral folate (n = 20), low tetrahydrobiopterin intermediates (n = 11), and borderline low-tetrahydrobiopterin intermediates (n = 20). Serum abnormalities included abnormal acylcarnitine profile (n = 12) and abnormal serum amino acids (n = 20). Eighteen patients presented with two or more abnormal metabolic findings. Sixteen patients with cerebral folate deficiency and seven with low tetrahydrobiopterin intermediates in CSF showed improvement in depression symptom inventories after treatment with folinic acid and sapropterin, respectively. No healthy controls had a metabolite abnormality. CONCLUSIONS Examination of metabolic disorders in treatment refractory depression identified an unexpectedly large proportion of patients with potentially treatable abnormalities. The etiology of these abnormalities and their potential roles in pathogenesis remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Pan
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- New Hope Molecular, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Panomics Mental Health Initiative, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, USA
| | | | - Joseph Wrobleski
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Annie Shaw
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Keith Hyland
- Medical Neurogenetics Laboratory, Atlanta, Georgia 30342, USA
| | - Marion Hughes
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - David N Finegold
- New Hope Molecular, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Panomics Mental Health Initiative, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, USA
| | - Robert K Naviaux
- University of California at San Diego, School of Medicine, San Diego, California 92103, USA
| | - David A Brent
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jerry Vockley
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - David G Peters
- University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Panomics Mental Health Initiative, Pittsburgh, PA 15228, USA
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Han X, Cao X, Cabrera RM, Pimienta Ramirez PA, Zhang C, Ramaekers VT, Finnell RH, Lei Y. KDM6B Variants May Contribute to the Pathophysiology of Human Cerebral Folate Deficiency. BIOLOGY 2022; 12:74. [PMID: 36671766 PMCID: PMC9855468 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: The genetic etiology of most patients with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) remains poorly understood. KDM6B variants were reported to cause neurodevelopmental diseases; however, the association between KDM6B and CFD is unknown; (2) Methods: Exome sequencing (ES) was performed on 48 isolated CFD cases. The effect of KDM6B variants on KDM6B protein expression, Histone H3 lysine 27 epigenetic modification and FOLR1 expression were examined in vitro. For each patient, serum FOLR1 autoantibodies were measured; (3) Results: Six KDM6B variants were identified in five CFD patients, which accounts for 10% of our CFD cohort cases. Functional experiments indicated that these KDM6B variants decreased the amount of KDM6B protein, which resulted in elevated H3K27me2, lower H3K27Ac and decreased FOLR1 protein concentrations. In addition, FOLR1 autoantibodies have been identified in serum; (4) Conclusion: Our study raises the possibility that KDM6B may be a novel CFD candidate gene in humans. Variants in KDM6B could downregulate FOLR1 gene expression, and might also predispose carriers to the development of FOLR1 autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Han
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xuanye Cao
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert M. Cabrera
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paula Andrea Pimienta Ramirez
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Vincent T. Ramaekers
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital Center Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Richard H. Finnell
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yunping Lei
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Cerebral Folate Metabolism in Post-Mortem Alzheimer's Disease Tissues: A Small Cohort Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010660. [PMID: 36614107 PMCID: PMC9820589 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the cerebral folate system in post-mortem brains and matched cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from subjects with definite Alzheimer's disease (AD) (n = 21) and neuropathologically normal brains (n = 21) using immunohistochemistry, Western blot and dot blot. In AD the CSF showed a significant decrease in 10-formyl tetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (FDH), a critical folate binding protein and enzyme in the CSF, as well as in the main folate transporter, folate receptor alpha (FRα) and folate. In tissue, we found a switch in the pathway of folate supply to the cerebral cortex in AD compared to neurologically normal brains. FRα switched from entry through FDH-positive astrocytes in normal, to entry through glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes in the AD cortex. Moreover, this switch correlated with an apparent change in metabolic direction to hypermethylation of neurons in AD. Our data suggest that the reduction in FDH in CSF prohibits FRα-folate entry via FDH-positive astrocytes and promotes entry through the GFAP pathway directly to neurons for hypermethylation. This data may explain some of the cognitive decline not attributable to the loss of neurons alone and presents a target for potential treatment.
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Sangha V, Hoque MT, Henderson JT, Bendayan R. Novel localization of folate transport systems in the murine central nervous system. Fluids Barriers CNS 2022; 19:92. [PMID: 36419095 PMCID: PMC9686069 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folates are a family of B9 vitamins that serve as one-carbon donors critical to biosynthetic processes required for the development and function of the central nervous system (CNS) in mammals. Folate transport is mediated by three highly specific systems: (1) folate receptor alpha (FRα; FOLR1/Folr1), (2) the reduced folate-carrier (RFC; SLC19A1/Slc19a1) and (3) the proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT; SLC46A1/Slc46a1). Folate transport into and out of the CNS occurs at the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB), mediated by FRα and PCFT. Impairment of folate transport at the BCSFB results in cerebral folate deficiency in infants characterized by severe neurological deficiencies and seizures. In contrast to the BCSFB, CNS folate transport at other brain barriers and brain parenchymal cells has not been extensively investigated. The aim of this study is to characterize folate transport systems in the murine CNS at several known barriers encompassing the BCSFB, arachnoid barrier (AB), blood-brain barrier (BBB) and parenchymal cells (astrocytes, microglia, neurons). METHODS Applying immunohistochemistry, localization of folate transport systems (RFC, PCFT, FRα) was examined at CNS barriers and parenchymal sites in wildtype (C57BL6/N) mice. Subcellular localization of the folate transport systems was further assessed in an in vitro model of the mouse AB. Gene and protein expression was analyzed in several in vitro models of brain barriers and parenchyma by qPCR and western blot analysis. RESULTS RFC, PCFT, and FRα expression was localized within the BCSFB and BBB consistent with previous reports. Only RFC and PCFT expression was detected at the AB. Varied levels of RFC and PCFT expression were detected in neuronal and glial cells. CONCLUSIONS Localization of RFC and PCFT within the AB, described here for the first time, suggest that AB may contribute to folate transport between the peripheral circulation and the CSF. RFC and PCFT expression observed in astrocytes and microglia is consistent with the role that one or both of these transporters may play in delivering folates into cells within brain parenchyma. These studies provide insights into mechanisms of folate transport in the CNS and may enhance our understanding of the critical role folates play in neurodevelopment and in the development of novel treatment strategies for disorders of brain folate deficiency due to impaired transporter function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Sangha
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Md. Tozammel Hoque
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jeffrey T. Henderson
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Reina Bendayan
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Akiyama T, Kuki I, Kim K, Yamamoto N, Yamada Y, Igarashi K, Ishihara T, Hatano Y, Kobayashi K. Folic acid inhibits 5-methyltetrahydrofolate transport across the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier: Clinical biochemical data from two cases. JIMD Rep 2022; 63:529-535. [PMID: 36341171 PMCID: PMC9626660 DOI: 10.1002/jmd2.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The use of folic acid (FA) has been discouraged in cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) because, theoretically, it could inhibit the transport of 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5MTHF) across the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier. We present the clinical biochemical data of two cases with CFD to support this hypothesis. Methods We measured CSF and serum 5MTHF concentrations in a patient with Kearns-Sayre syndrome (KSS) and a patient homozygous for MTHFR C677T polymorphism before and during folate supplementation therapy. To evaluate these 5MTHF concentrations, we also analyzed CSF and serum samples in pediatric patients without folate supplementation. Results Both patients had low CSF 5MTHF before treatment and high-dose FA therapy did not normalize CSF 5MTHF. There was a dissociation between serum total folate and 5MTHF concentrations during FA therapy, which was considered to be due to the appearance of unmetabolized FA. The addition of folinic acid did not improve low CSF 5MTHF in the KSS patient and the cessation of FA resulted in the normalization of CSF 5MTHF. In the patient homozygous for MTHFR C677T, minimization of the FA dosage resulted in the normalization of CSF 5MTHF and an increased CSF-to-serum 5MTHF ratio. Conclusions Our data suggest that excess supplementation of FA impaired 5MTHF transport across the blood-CSF barrier. In the treatment of CFD, supplementation of folinic acid or 5MTHF (in cases of impaired 5MTHF synthesis) is preferred over the use of FA. The reference values of CSF 5MTHF concentration based on 600 pediatric cases were also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Akiyama
- Department of Child NeurologyOkayama University HospitalOkayamaJapan
- Department of Child Neurology, Okayama University Graduate School of MedicineDentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Ichiro Kuki
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyOsaka City General HospitalOsakaJapan
| | - Kiyohiro Kim
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyOsaka City General HospitalOsakaJapan
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyHyogo Prefectural Amagasaki General Medical CenterHyogoJapan
| | - Naohiro Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyOsaka City General HospitalOsakaJapan
| | - Yumi Yamada
- Department of NeurologyNational Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo HospitalNiigataJapan
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research InstituteNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Kazuya Igarashi
- Department of NeurologyNational Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo HospitalNiigataJapan
| | - Tomohiko Ishihara
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research InstituteNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Yuya Hatano
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research InstituteNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Katsuhiro Kobayashi
- Department of Child NeurologyOkayama University HospitalOkayamaJapan
- Department of Child Neurology, Okayama University Graduate School of MedicineDentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
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13
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Arning E, Wasek B, Bottiglieri T. Quantitation of 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate in Cerebrospinal Fluid Using Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2546:311-319. [PMID: 36127600 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2565-1_28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
We describe a simple stable isotope dilution method for accurate and precise measurement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) as a clinical diagnostic test. 5-MTHF is the main biologically active form of folate and is involved in the regulation of homocysteine and numerous methylation reactions, including synthesis of neurotransmitters, lipids, DNA, and RNA. Measurement of 5-MTHF in CSF provides diagnostic information regarding disorders affecting folate metabolism within the central nervous system, in particular inborn errors of folate metabolism and cerebral folate deficiency. Determination of 5-MTHF in CSF (50 μL) was performed utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray positive ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS). 5-MTHF in CSF is determined by a 1:2 dilution with internal standard (5-MTHF-13C5) and injected directly onto the HPLC-ESI-MS/MS system. Each assay is quantified using a five-point standard curve (25-400 nM) and has an analytical measurement range of 3-1000 nM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erland Arning
- Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Brandi Wasek
- Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
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14
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Ramaekers VT, Quadros EV. Cerebral Folate Deficiency Syndrome: Early Diagnosis, Intervention and Treatment Strategies. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14153096. [PMID: 35956272 PMCID: PMC9370123 DOI: 10.3390/nu14153096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral folate deficiency syndrome (CFDS) is defined as any neuropsychiatric or developmental disorder characterized by decreased CSF folate levels in the presence of normal folate status outside the nervous system. The specific clinical profile appears to be largely determined by the presence or absence of intrauterine folate deficiency as well as postnatal age at which cerebral folate deficiency occurs. The primary cause of CFDS is identified as the presence of serum folate receptor-alpha (FRα) autoantibodies impairing folate transport across the choroid plexus to the brain whereas, in a minority of cases, mitochondrial disorders, inborn errors of metabolism and loss of function mutations of the FRα (FOLR1) gene are identified. Early recognition and diagnosis of CFDS and prompt intervention is important to improve prognosis with successful outcomes. In this article we focus on FRα autoimmunity and its different age-dependent clinical syndromes, the diagnostic criteria, and treatments to be considered, including prevention strategies in this at-risk population.
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15
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Zamek-Gliszczynski MJ, Sangha V, Shen H, Feng B, Wittwer MB, Varma MVS, Liang X, Sugiyama Y, Zhang L, Bendayan R. Transporters in drug development: International transporter consortium update on emerging transporters of clinical importance. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2022; 112:485-500. [PMID: 35561119 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
During its 4th transporter workshop in 2021, the International Transporter Consortium (ITC) provided updates on emerging clinically relevant transporters for drug development. Previously highlighted and new transporters were considered based on up-to-date clinical evidence of their importance in drug-drug interactions and potential for altered drug efficacy and safety, including drug-nutrient interactions leading to nutrient deficiencies. For the first time, folate transport pathways (PCFT, RFC, and FRα) were examined in-depth as a potential mechanism of drug-induced folate deficiency and related toxicities (e.g., neural tube defects, megaloblastic anemia). However, routine toxicology studies conducted in support of drug development appear sufficient to flag such folate deficiency toxicities, while prospective prediction from in vitro folate metabolism and transport inhibition is not well enough established to inform drug development. Previous suggestion of retrospective study of intestinal OATP2B1 inhibition to explain unexpected decreases in drug exposure were updated. Furthermore, when the absorption of a new molecular entity is more rapid and extensive than can be explained by passive permeability, evaluation of OATP2B1 transport may be considered. Emerging research on hepatic and renal OAT2 is summarized, but current understanding of the importance of OAT2 was deemed insufficient to justify specific consideration for drug development. Hepatic, renal, and intestinal MRPs (MRP2, MRP3, MRP4) were revisited. MRPs may be considered when they are suspected to be the major determinant of drug disposition (e.g., direct glucuronide conjugates); MRP2 inhibition as a mechanistic explanation for drug-induced hyperbilirubinemia remains justified. There were no major changes in recommendations from previous ITC whitepapers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vishal Sangha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toronto, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 144 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Hong Shen
- Drug Metabolism and PK, Bristol Myers Squibb Company, Route 206 & Province Line Road, Princeton, NJ, 08543, USA
| | - Bo Feng
- Drug Metabolism and PK, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc, 50 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210, USA
| | - Matthias B Wittwer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, CH-4070, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manthena V S Varma
- PK, Dynamics and Metabolism, Medicine Design, Pfizer Inc, Worldwide R&D, Groton, CT, 06340, USA
| | - Xiaomin Liang
- Drug Metabolism, Gilead Sciences, Inc, 333 Lakeside Drive, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Yuichi Sugiyama
- Laboratory of Quantitative System PK/Pharmacodynamics, School of Pharmacy, Josai International University, Kioicho Campus, Tokyo, 102-0093, Japan
| | - Lei Zhang
- Office of Research and Standards, Office of Generic Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD, 20993, USA
| | - Reina Bendayan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toronto, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, 144 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3M2, Canada
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16
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Requena-Jimenez A, Nabiuni M, Miyan JA. Profound changes in cerebrospinal fluid proteome and metabolic profile are associated with congenital hydrocephalus. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2021; 41:3400-3414. [PMID: 34415213 PMCID: PMC8669293 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x211039612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of congenital hydrocephalus (cHC) has yet to be resolved. cHC manifests late in rodent gestation, and by 18-22 weeks in human fetuses, coinciding with the start of the major phase of cerebral cortex development. Previously we found that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation is associated with compositional changes, folate metabolic impairment and consequential arrest in cortical development. Here, we report a proteomics study on hydrocephalic and normal rat CSF using LC-MSMS and a metabolic pathway analysis to determine the major changes in metabolic and signalling pathways. Non-targeted analysis revealed a proteome transformation across embryonic days 17-20, with the largest changes between day 19 and 20. This provides evidence for a physiological shift in CSF composition and identifies some of the molecular mechanisms unleashed during the onset of cHC. Top molecular regulators that may control the shift in the CSF metabolic signature are also predicted, with potential key biomarkers proposed for early detection of these changes that might be used to develop targeted early therapies for this condition. This study confirms previous findings of a folate metabolic imbalance as well as providing more in depth metabolic analysis and understanding of cHC CSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Requena-Jimenez
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jaleel A Miyan
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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17
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Do HQ, Bassil CM, Andersen EI, Jansen M. Impact of nanodisc lipid composition on cell-free expression of proton-coupled folate transporter. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253184. [PMID: 34793461 PMCID: PMC8601550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The Proton-Coupled Folate Transporter (PCFT) is a transmembrane transport protein that controls the absorption of dietary folates in the small intestine. PCFT also mediates uptake of chemotherapeutically used antifolates into tumor cells. PCFT has been identified within lipid rafts observed in phospholipid bilayers of plasma membranes, a micro environment that is altered in tumor cells. The present study aimed at investigating the impact of different lipids within Lipid-protein nanodiscs (LPNs), discoidal lipid structures stabilized by membrane scaffold proteins, to yield soluble PCFT expression in an E. coli lysate-based cell-free transcription/translation system. In the absence of detergents or lipids, we observed PCFT quantitatively as precipitate in this system. We then explored the ability of LPNs to support solubilized PCFT expression when present during in-vitro translation. LPNs consisted of either dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC), palmitoyl-oleoyl phosphatidylcholine (POPC), or dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DMPG). While POPC did not lead to soluble PCFT expression, both DMPG and DMPC supported PCFT translation directly into LPNs, the latter in a concentration dependent manner. The results obtained through this study provide insights into the lipid preferences of PCFT. Membrane-embedded or solubilized PCFT will enable further studies with diverse biophysical approaches to enhance the understanding of the structure and molecular mechanism of folate transport through PCFT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoa Quynh Do
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - Carla M. Bassil
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
- The Clark Scholar Program, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth I. Andersen
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michaela Jansen
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
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18
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Cerebral Folate Deficiency, Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies and Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111141. [PMID: 34834493 PMCID: PMC8622150 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebral folate receptor alpha (FRα) transports 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) into the brain; low 5-MTHF in the brain causes cerebral folate deficiency (CFD). CFD has been associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and is treated with d,l-leucovorin (folinic acid). One cause of CFD is an autoantibody that interferes with the function of the FRα. FRα autoantibodies (FRAAs) have been reported in ASD. A systematic review was performed to identify studies reporting FRAAs in association with ASD, or the use of d,l-leucovorin in the treatment of ASD. A meta-analysis examined the prevalence of FRAAs in ASD. The pooled prevalence of ASD in individuals with CFD was 44%, while the pooled prevalence of CFD in ASD was 38% (with a significant variation across studies due to heterogeneity). The etiology of CFD in ASD was attributed to FRAAs in 83% of the cases (with consistency across studies) and mitochondrial dysfunction in 43%. A significant inverse correlation was found between higher FRAA serum titers and lower 5-MTHF CSF concentrations in two studies. The prevalence of FRAA in ASD was 71% without significant variation across studies. Children with ASD were 19.03-fold more likely to be positive for a FRAA compared to typically developing children without an ASD sibling. For individuals with ASD and CFD, meta-analysis also found improvements with d,l-leucovorin in overall ASD symptoms (67%), irritability (58%), ataxia (88%), pyramidal signs (76%), movement disorders (47%), and epilepsy (75%). Twenty-one studies (including four placebo-controlled and three prospective, controlled) treated individuals with ASD using d,l-leucovorin. d,l-Leucovorin was found to significantly improve communication with medium-to-large effect sizes and have a positive effect on core ASD symptoms and associated behaviors (attention and stereotypy) in individual studies with large effect sizes. Significant adverse effects across studies were generally mild but the most common were aggression (9.5%), excitement or agitation (11.7%), headache (4.9%), insomnia (8.5%), and increased tantrums (6.2%). Taken together, d,l-leucovorin is associated with improvements in core and associated symptoms of ASD and appears safe and generally well-tolerated, with the strongest evidence coming from the blinded, placebo-controlled studies. Further studies would be helpful to confirm and expand on these findings.
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19
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Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11080710. [PMID: 34442354 PMCID: PMC8398778 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11080710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate deficiency and folate receptor autoimmune disorder are major contributors to infertility, pregnancy related complications and abnormal fetal development including structural and functional abnormalities of the brain. Food fortification and prenatal folic acid supplementation has reduced the incidence of neural tube defect (NTD) pregnancies but is unlikely to prevent pregnancy-related complications in the presence of folate receptor autoantibodies (FRAb). In pregnancy, these autoantibodies can block folate transport to the fetus and in young children, folate transport to the brain. These antibodies are prevalent in neural tube defect pregnancies and in developmental disorders such as cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) syndrome and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the latter conditions, folinic acid treatment has shown clinical improvement in some of the core ASD deficits. Early testing for folate receptor autoantibodies and intervention is likely to result in a positive outcome. This review discusses the first identification of FRAb in women with a history of neural tube defect pregnancy and FRAb’s association with sub-fertility and preterm birth. Autoantibodies against folate receptor alpha (FRα) are present in about 70% of the children with a diagnosis of ASD, and a significant number of these children respond to oral folinic acid with overall improvements in speech, language and social interaction. The diagnosis of folate receptor autoimmune disorder by measuring autoantibodies against FRα in the serum provides a marker with the potential for treatment and perhaps preventing the pathologic consequences of folate receptor autoimmune disorder.
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20
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Himmelreich N, Blau N, Thöny B. Molecular and metabolic bases of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH 4) deficiencies. Mol Genet Metab 2021; 133:123-136. [PMID: 33903016 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency is caused by genetic variants in the three genes involved in de novo cofactor biosynthesis, GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH/GCH1), 6-pyruvoyl-tetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS/PTS), sepiapterin reductase (SR/SPR), and the two genes involved in cofactor recycling, carbinolamine-4α-dehydratase (PCD/PCBD1) and dihydropteridine reductase (DHPR/QDPR). Dysfunction in BH4 metabolism leads to reduced cofactor levels and may result in systemic hyperphenylalaninemia and/or neurological sequelae due to secondary deficiency in monoamine neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. More than 1100 patients with BH4 deficiency and 800 different allelic variants distributed throughout the individual genes are tabulated in database of pediatric neurotransmitter disorders PNDdb. Here we provide an update on the molecular-genetic analysis and structural considerations of these variants, including the clinical courses of the genotypes. From a total of 324 alleles, 11 are associated with the autosomal recessive form of GTPCH deficiency presenting with hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) and neurotransmitter deficiency, 295 GCH1 variant alleles are detected in the dominant form of L-dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD or Segawa disease) while phenotypes of 18 alleles remained undefined. Autosomal recessive variants observed in the PTS (199 variants), PCBD1 (32 variants), and QDPR (141 variants) genes lead to HPA concomitant with central monoamine neurotransmitter deficiency, while SPR deficiency (104 variants) presents without hyperphenylalaninemia. The clinical impact of reported variants is essential for genetic counseling and important for development of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastassja Himmelreich
- Center for Child and Adolescent Medicine, Dietmar-Hopp Metabolic Center, Division 1, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nenad Blau
- Division of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Beat Thöny
- Division of Metabolism and Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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21
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Zwart SR, Mulavara AP, Williams TJ, George K, Smith SM. The role of nutrition in space exploration: Implications for sensorimotor, cognition, behavior and the cerebral changes due to the exposure to radiation, altered gravity, and isolation/confinement hazards of spaceflight. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 127:307-331. [PMID: 33915203 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Multi-year crewed space exploration missions are now on the horizon; therefore, it is important that we understand and mitigate the physiological effects of spaceflight. The spaceflight hazards-radiation, isolation, confinement, and altered gravity-have the potential to contribute to neuroinflammation and produce long-term cognitive and behavioral effects-while the fifth hazard, distance from earth, limits capabilities to mitigate these risks. Accumulated evidence suggests that nutrition has an important role in optimizing cognition and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases caused by neuroinflammation. Here we review the nutritional perspective of how these spaceflight hazards affect the astronaut's brain, behavior, performance, and sensorimotor function. We also assess potential nutrient/nutritional countermeasures that could prevent or mitigate spaceflight risks and ensure that crewmembers remain healthy and perform well during their missions. Just as history has taught us the importance of nutrition in terrestrial exploration, we must understand the role of nutrition in the development and mitigation of spaceflight risks before humans can successfully explore beyond low-Earth orbit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Zwart
- Univerity of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
| | | | - Thomas J Williams
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Mail Code SK3, 2101 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
| | - Kerry George
- KBR, 2400 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
| | - Scott M Smith
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Mail Code SK3, 2101 NASA Parkway, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
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22
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Canever L, Varela R, Mastella GA, Damázio LS, Valvassori SS, Quevedo JL, Zugno AI. Effects of maternal folic acid supplementation on nuclear methyltransferase activity of adult rats subjected to an animal model of schizophrenia. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:461-467. [PMID: 33786893 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schizophrenia is considered one of the most disabling and severe human diseases worldwide. The etiology of schizophrenia is thought to be multifactorial and evidence suggests that DNA methylation can play an important role in underlying pivotal neurobiological alterations of this disorder. Some studies have demonstrated the effects of dietary supplementation as an alternative approach to the prevention of schizophrenia, including folic acid. However, no study has ever investigated the role of such supplementation in altering the DNA methylation system in the context of schizophrenia. OBJECTIVES The present study aims to investigate the effects of maternal folic acid supplementation at different doses on nuclear methyltransferase activity of adult rat offspring subjected to an animal model schizophrenia induced by ketamine. METHODS Adult female Wistar rats, (60 days old) received folic acid-deficient diet, control diet, or control diet plus folic acid supplementation (at 5, 10, or 50 mg/kg) during pregnancy and lactation. After reaching adulthood (60 days), the male offspring of these dams were subjected to the animal model of schizophrenia induced by 7 days of ketamine intraperitoneal injection (25 mg/kg). After the 7-day protocol, the activity of nuclear methyltransferase was evaluated in the brains of the offspring. RESULTS Maternal folic acid supplementation at 50 mg/kg increased methyltransferase activity in the frontal cortex, while 10 mg/kg increased methyltransferase activity in the hippocampus. In the striatum of offspring treated with ketamine, maternal deficient diet, control diet, and folic acid supplementation at 5 mg/kg decreased methyltransferase activity compared to the control group. The folic acid supplementation at 10 and 50 mg/kg reversed this ketamine effect. CONCLUSIONS Maternal FA deficiency could be related to schizophrenia pathophysiology, while FA supplementation could present a protective effect since it demonstrated persistent effects in epigenetic parameters in adult offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Canever
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Roger Varela
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Gustavo A Mastella
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Louyse S Damázio
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Samira S Valvassori
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
| | - João L Quevedo
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil.,Translational Psychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA.,Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexandra I Zugno
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, Brazil
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23
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Kakkassery V, Koschmieder A, Walther F, Lehbrink R, Bertsche A, Wortmann SB, Buchmann J, Jäger M, Friedburg C, Lorenz B, Jünemann A. [Chorioretinal atrophy in pediatric cerebral folate deficiency-a preventable disease?]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:383-390. [PMID: 32632495 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-020-01126-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) results in neurological alterations and a massive degeneration of the choroid/retina if left untreated, which limit the visual field and visual acuity. This article reports the case of a female patient with CFD, who developed autistic personal characteristics prior to reaching school age and first started to speak at the age of 3 years. At the age of 6 years she was presented because of unclear reduced visual acuity in the right eye. At that time mild bilateral peripheral chorioretinal atrophy was present, which subsequently became more pronounced. Additionally, a centrally emphasized chorioretinal atrophy further developed. Visual acuity of both eyes progressively deteriorated until stagnating at 0.1 at the age of 14 years. The causal assignment of the findings of the patient was not possible for many years. Choroideremia was excluded by molecular genetic testing (CHM gene with no mutations) and gyrate atrophy was ruled out by a normal ornithine level. The existence of a mitochondrial disease was almost completely excluded by exome sequencing. After the onset of further nonocular symptoms, e.g. neuromuscular disorders, electroencephalograph (EEG) alterations and autistic disorder, intensified laboratory diagnostics were performed in the treating pediatric hospital. Finally, an extremely low level of the folic acid metabolite 5‑methyltetrahydrofolate was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leading to the diagnosis of CFD. High-dose substitution treatment with folic acid was subsequently initiated. After excluding the presence of a pathogenic mutation of the FOLR1 gene for the cerebral folate receptor 1, a high titer blocking autoantibody against cerebral folate receptor 1 was detected as the cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Kakkassery
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Doberaner Str. 140, 18057, Rostock, Deutschland. .,Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Campus Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Deutschland.
| | - A Koschmieder
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Doberaner Str. 140, 18057, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - F Walther
- Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - R Lehbrink
- Sektion Neuropädiatrie, Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland.,Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - A Bertsche
- Sektion Neuropädiatrie, Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - S B Wortmann
- University Children's Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University (PMU), Salzburg, Österreich.,Institute of Human Genetics, Technical University München, München, Deutschland.,Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Niederlande
| | - J Buchmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Neurologie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie im Kindes- und Jugendalter, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - M Jäger
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Standort Gießen, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Gießen, Deutschland
| | - C Friedburg
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Standort Gießen, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Gießen, Deutschland
| | - B Lorenz
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Standort Gießen, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Gießen, Deutschland
| | - A Jünemann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Doberaner Str. 140, 18057, Rostock, Deutschland
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Harlan De Crescenzo A, Panoutsopoulos AA, Tat L, Schaaf Z, Racherla S, Henderson L, Leung KY, Greene NDE, Green R, Zarbalis KS. Deficient or Excess Folic Acid Supply During Pregnancy Alter Cortical Neurodevelopment in Mouse Offspring. Cereb Cortex 2021; 31:635-649. [PMID: 32995858 PMCID: PMC7727343 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate is an essential micronutrient required for both cellular proliferation through de novo nucleotide synthesis and epigenetic regulation of gene expression through methylation. This dual requirement places a particular demand on folate availability during pregnancy when both rapid cell generation and programmed differentiation of maternal, extraembryonic, and embryonic/fetal tissues are required. Accordingly, prenatal neurodevelopment is particularly susceptible to folate deficiency, which can predispose to neural tube defects, or when effective transport into the brain is impaired, cerebral folate deficiency. Consequently, adequate folate consumption, in the form of folic acid (FA) fortification and supplement use, is widely recommended and has led to a substantial increase in the amount of FA intake during pregnancy in some populations. Here, we show that either maternal folate deficiency or FA excess in mice results in disruptions in folate metabolism of the offspring, suggesting diversion of the folate cycle from methylation to DNA synthesis. Paradoxically, either intervention causes comparable neurodevelopmental changes by delaying prenatal cerebral cortical neurogenesis in favor of late-born neurons. These cytoarchitectural and biochemical alterations are accompanied by behavioral abnormalities in FA test groups compared with controls. Our findings point to overlooked potential neurodevelopmental risks associated with excessively high levels of prenatal FA intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Harlan De Crescenzo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Alexios A Panoutsopoulos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Lyvin Tat
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Zachary Schaaf
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Shailaja Racherla
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Lyle Henderson
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Kit-Yi Leung
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas D E Greene
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ralph Green
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Konstantinos S Zarbalis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
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25
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Barcelos I, Shadiack E, Ganetzky RD, Falk MJ. Mitochondrial medicine therapies: rationale, evidence, and dosing guidelines. Curr Opin Pediatr 2020; 32:707-718. [PMID: 33105273 PMCID: PMC7774245 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000000954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Primary mitochondrial disease is a highly heterogeneous but collectively common inherited metabolic disorder, affecting at least one in 4300 individuals. Therapeutic management of mitochondrial disease typically involves empiric prescription of enzymatic cofactors, antioxidants, and amino acid and other nutrient supplements, based on biochemical reasoning, historical experience, and consensus expert opinion. As the field continues to rapidly advance, we review here the preclinical and clinical evidence, and specific dosing guidelines, for common mitochondrial medicine therapies to guide practitioners in their prescribing practices. RECENT FINDINGS Since publication of Mitochondrial Medicine Society guidelines for mitochondrial medicine therapies management in 2009, data has emerged to support consideration for using additional therapeutic agents and discontinuation of several previously used agents. Preclinical animal modeling data have indicated a lack of efficacy for vitamin C as an antioxidant for primary mitochondrial disease, but provided strong evidence for vitamin E and N-acetylcysteine. Clinical data have suggested L-carnitine may accelerate atherosclerotic disease. Long-term follow up on L-arginine use as prophylaxis against or acute treatment for metabolic strokes has provided more data supporting its clinical use in individuals with mitochondrial encephalopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome and Leigh syndrome. Further, several precision therapies have been developed for specific molecular causes and/or shared clinical phenotypes of primary mitochondrial disease. SUMMARY We provide a comprehensive update on mitochondrial medicine therapies based on current evidence and our single-center clinical experience to support or refute their use, and provide detailed dosing guidelines, for the clinical management of mitochondrial disease. The overarching goal of empiric mitochondrial medicines is to utilize therapies with favorable benefit-to-risk profiles that may stabilize and enhance residual metabolic function to improve cellular resiliency and slow clinical disease progression and/or prevent acute decompensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Barcelos
- Center for Applied Genomics, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Edward Shadiack
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca D. Ganetzky
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marni J. Falk
- Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Zhang C, Deng X, Wen Y, He F, Yin F, Peng J. First case report of cerebral folate deficiency caused by a novel mutation of FOLR1 gene in a Chinese patient. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 21:235. [PMID: 33243190 PMCID: PMC7691102 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-020-01162-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) is a neurological disease, hallmarked by remarkable low concentrations of 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5-MTHF) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The primary causes of CFD include the presence of folate receptor (FR) autoantibodies, defects of FR encoding gene FOLR1, mitochondrial diseases and congenital abnormalities in folate metabolism. Case presentation Here we first present a Chinese male CFD patient whose seizure onset at 2 years old with convulsive status epilepticus. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed the development of encephalomalacia, laminar necrosis in multiple lobes of the brain and cerebellar atrophy. Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) uncovered a homozygous missense variant of c.524G > T (p.C175F) in FOLR1 gene. Further laboratory tests demonstrated the extremely low level of 5-MTHF in the CSF from this patient, which was attributed to cerebral folate transport deficiency. Following the intravenous and oral treatment of calcium folinate, the concentrations of 5-MTHF in CSF were recovered to the normal range and seizure symptoms were relieved as well. Conclusions One novel variation of FOLR1 was firstly identified from a Chinese male patient with tonic-clonic seizures, developmental delay, and ataxia. The WES and laboratory results elucidated the etiology of the symptoms. Clinical outcomes were improved by early diagnosis and proper treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciliu Zhang
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolu Deng
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China
| | - Yafei Wen
- XiangYa School of Medicine of Central South University, 172 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, P.R. China
| | - Fang He
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China
| | - Fei Yin
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China
| | - Jing Peng
- Xiangya Hospital Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China.
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27
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Frye RE, Rossignol DA, Scahill L, McDougle CJ, Huberman H, Quadros EV. Treatment of Folate Metabolism Abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2020; 35:100835. [PMID: 32892962 PMCID: PMC7477301 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2020.100835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that currently has no approved medical therapy to address core symptoms or underling pathophysiological processes. Several compounds are under development that address both underlying pathophysiological abnormalities and core ASD symptoms. This article reviews one of these treatments, d,l-leucovorin calcium (also known as folinic acid) for treatment of folate pathway abnormalities in children with ASD. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that is essential for normal neurodevelopment and abnormalities in the folate and related pathways have been identified in children with ASD. One of these abnormalities involves a partial blockage in the ability of folate to be transported into the brain utilizing the primary transport mechanism, the folate receptor alpha. Autoantibodies which interfere with the function of the folate receptor alpha called folate receptor alpha autoantibodies have been identified in 58%-76% of children with ASD and independent studies have demonstrated that blood titers of these autoantibodies correlate with folate levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. Most significantly, case-series, open-label, and single and double-blind placebo-controlled studies suggest that d,l-leucovorin, a reduced folate that can bypass the blockage at the folate receptor alpha by using the reduced folate carrier, an alternate pathway, can substantially improve particular symptoms in children with ASD, especially those positive for folate receptor alpha autoantibodies. This article reviews the current evidence for treating core and associated symptoms and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms in children with ASD with d,l-leucovorin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Frye
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ
| | | | - Lawrence Scahill
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University and Marcus Autism Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - Christopher J. McDougle
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA and Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA
| | - Harris Huberman
- Departments of Pediatrics, State University of New York – Downstate, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Edward V. Quadros
- Departments of Medicine, State University of New York – Downstate, Brooklyn, NY
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Azaryah H, Verdejo-Román J, Martin-Pérez C, García-Santos JA, Martínez-Zaldívar C, Torres-Espínola FJ, Campos D, Koletzko B, Pérez-García M, Catena A, Campoy C. Effects of Maternal Fish Oil and/or 5-Methyl-Tetrahydrofolate Supplementation during Pregnancy on Offspring Brain Resting-State at 10 Years Old: A Follow-Up Study from the NUHEAL Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2701. [PMID: 32899673 PMCID: PMC7551257 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that maternal supplementation with folate and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) during pregnancy may affect children's brain development. We aimed at examining the potential long-term effect of maternal supplementation with fish oil (FO) and/or 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) on the brain functionality of offspring at the age of 9.5-10 years. The current study was conducted as a follow-up of the Spanish participants belonging to the Nutraceuticals for a Healthier Life (NUHEAL) project; 57 children were divided into groups according to mother's supplementation and assessed through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning and neurodevelopment testing. Independent component analysis and double regression methods were implemented to investigate plausible associations. Children born to mothers supplemented with FO (FO and FO + 5-MTHF groups, n = 33) showed weaker functional connectivity in the default mode (DM) (angular gyrus), the sensorimotor (SM) (motor and somatosensory cortices) and the fronto-parietal (FP) (angular gyrus) networks compared to the No-FO group (placebo and 5-MTHF groups, n = 24) (PFWE < 0.05). Furthermore, no differences were found regarding the neuropsychological tests, except for a trend of better results in an object recall (memory) test. Considering the No-FO group, the aforementioned networks were associated negatively with attention and speed-processing functions. Mother's FO supplementation during pregnancy seems to be able to shape resting-state network functioning in their children at school age and appears to produce long-term effects on children´s cognitive processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatim Azaryah
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Juan Verdejo-Román
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour International Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (J.V.-R.); (C.M.-P.); (M.P.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Cristina Martin-Pérez
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour International Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (J.V.-R.); (C.M.-P.); (M.P.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - José Antonio García-Santos
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (Ibs-GRANADA), Health Sciences Technological Park, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Martínez-Zaldívar
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Torres-Espínola
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Daniel Campos
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Berthold Koletzko
- Ludwig-Maximiliams-Universität München, Dr. von Hauner Children’s Hospital, University of Munich Hospitals, 80337 Munich, Germany;
| | - Miguel Pérez-García
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour International Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (J.V.-R.); (C.M.-P.); (M.P.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Andrés Catena
- Mind, Brain and Behaviour International Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain; (J.V.-R.); (C.M.-P.); (M.P.-G.); (A.C.)
| | - Cristina Campoy
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avda. Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain; (H.A.); (J.A.G.-S.); (C.M.-Z.); (F.J.T.-E.); (D.C.)
- EURISTIKOS Excellence Centre for Paediatric Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (Ibs-GRANADA), Health Sciences Technological Park, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Spanish Network of Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Granada’s Node, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Kundap UP, Paudel YN, Shaikh MF. Animal Models of Metabolic Epilepsy and Epilepsy Associated Metabolic Dysfunction: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13060106. [PMID: 32466498 PMCID: PMC7345684 DOI: 10.3390/ph13060106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a serious neurological disorder affecting around 70 million people globally and is characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. Recent evidence indicates that dysfunction in metabolic processes can lead to the alteration of neuronal and network excitability, thereby contributing to epileptogenesis. Developing a suitable animal model that can recapitulate all the clinical phenotypes of human metabolic epilepsy (ME) is crucial yet challenging. The specific environment of many symptoms as well as the primary state of the applicable neurobiology, genetics, and lack of valid biomarkers/diagnostic tests are the key factors that hinder the process of developing a suitable animal model. The present systematic review summarizes the current state of available animal models of metabolic dysfunction associated with epileptic disorders. A systematic search was performed by using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) model. A range of electronic databases, including google scholar, Springer, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus, were scanned between January 2000 and April 2020. Based on the selection criteria, 23 eligible articles were chosen and are discussed in the current review. Critical analysis of the selected literature delineated several available approaches that have been modeled into metabolic epilepsy and pointed out several drawbacks associated with the currently available models. The result describes available models of metabolic dysfunction associated with epileptic disorder, such as mitochondrial respiration deficits, Lafora disease (LD) model-altered glycogen metabolism, causing epilepsy, glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) deficiency, adiponectin responsive seizures, phospholipid dysfunction, glutaric aciduria, mitochondrial disorders, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) α-subunit gene (PDHA1), pyridoxine dependent epilepsy (PDE), BCL2-associated agonist of cell death (BAD), Kcna1 knock out (KO), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) cancer susceptibility candidate 2 (lncRNA CASC2). Finally, the review highlights certain focus areas that may increase the possibilities of developing more suitable animal models and underscores the importance of the rationalization of animal models and evaluation methods for studying ME. The review also suggests the pressing need of developing precise robust animal models and evaluation methods for investigating ME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday Praful Kundap
- Research Center of the University of Montreal Hospital Center (CRCHUM), Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (U.P.K.); (Y.N.P.)
- Neuropharmacology Research Strength, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Yam Nath Paudel
- Research Center of the University of Montreal Hospital Center (CRCHUM), Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (U.P.K.); (Y.N.P.)
| | - Mohd. Farooq Shaikh
- Neuropharmacology Research Strength, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-551-44-483
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Abstract
Patients with refractory epilepsy from inborn errors of metabolism typically present as neonates. Direct supplementation with the deficient vitamin or cofactor is recommended, and case series report both efficacy and safety data of these agents. Some conditions may also occur together, necessitating multiple treatments. Despite effective and early treatment, patients are at heightened risk for neurological sequela. The literature on seizures related to metabolic deficiencies for pediatric patients is limited but has some guidance on appropriate dosing and monitoring for agents to target specific deficiencies, which may help with narrowing antiepileptic therapies, reducing side effects, and improving neurodevelopmental outcomes and quality of life. The focus of this review is to discuss the pharmacotherapy, including the most updated published efficacy and safety data, involved in treating refractory epilepsy as a result of metabolic errors.
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31
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Pope S, Artuch R, Heales S, Rahman S. Cerebral folate deficiency: Analytical tests and differential diagnosis. J Inherit Metab Dis 2019; 42:655-672. [PMID: 30916789 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral folate deficiency is typically defined as a deficiency of the major folate species 5-methyltetrahydrofolate in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the presence of normal peripheral total folate levels. However, it should be noted that cerebral folate deficiency is also often used to describe conditions where CSF 5-MTHF is low, in the presence of low or undefined peripheral folate levels. Known defects of folate transport are deficiency of the proton coupled folate transporter, associated with systemic as well as cerebral folate deficiency, and deficiency of the folate receptor alpha, leading to an isolated cerebral folate deficiency associated with intractable seizures, developmental delay and/or regression, progressive ataxia and choreoathetoid movement disorders. Inborn errors of folate metabolism include deficiencies of the enzymes methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, dihydrofolate reductase and 5,10-methenyltetrahydrofolate synthetase. Cerebral folate deficiency is potentially a treatable condition and so prompt recognition of these inborn errors and initiation of appropriate therapy is of paramount importance. Secondary cerebral folate deficiency may be observed in other inherited metabolic diseases, including disorders of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system, serine deficiency, and pyridoxine dependent epilepsy. Other secondary causes of cerebral folate deficiency include the effects of drugs, immune response activation, toxic insults and oxidative stress. This review describes the absorption, transport and metabolism of folate within the body; analytical methods to measure folate species in blood, plasma and CSF; inherited and acquired causes of cerebral folate deficiency; and possible treatment options in those patients found to have cerebral folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Pope
- Neurometabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology, London, UK
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu and CIBERER, ISCIII, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Simon Heales
- Neurometabolic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology, London, UK
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Mitochondrial Research Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Shamima Rahman
- Mitochondrial Research Group, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Metabolic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Masingue M, Benoist JF, Roze E, Moussa F, Sedel F, Lubetzki C, Nadjar Y. Cerebral folate deficiency in adults: A heterogeneous potentially treatable condition. J Neurol Sci 2019; 396:112-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Radziejewska A, Chmurzynska A. Folate and choline absorption and uptake: Their role in fetal development. Biochimie 2018; 158:10-19. [PMID: 30529042 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE In this review, we attempt to assess how choline and folate transporters affect fetal development. We focus on how the expression of these transporters in response to choline and folate intake affects transport effectiveness. We additionally describe allelic variants of the genes encoding these transporters and their phenotypic effects. METHODS AND RESULTS We made an extensive review of recent articles describing role of choline and folate - with particularly emphasize on their transporters - in fetal development. Folate and choline are necessary for the proper functioning of the cell and body. During pregnancy, the requirements of these nutrients increase because of elevated maternal demand and the rapid division of fetal cells. The concentrations of folate and choline in cells depend on food intake, the absorption of nutrients, and the cellular transport system, which is tissue-specific and developmentally regulated. Relatively few studies have investigated the role of choline transporters in fetal development. CONCLUSIONS In this review we show relations between functioning of folate and choline transporters and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Radziejewska
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poland
| | - Agata Chmurzynska
- Institute of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poland.
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Batllori M, Molero-Luis M, Ormazabal A, Montero R, Sierra C, Ribes A, Montoya J, Ruiz-Pesini E, O'Callaghan M, Pias L, Nascimento A, Palau F, Armstrong J, Yubero D, Ortigoza-Escobar JD, García-Cazorla A, Artuch R. Cerebrospinal fluid monoamines, pterins, and folate in patients with mitochondrial diseases: systematic review and hospital experience. J Inherit Metab Dis 2018; 41:1147-1158. [PMID: 29974349 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-018-0224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are a group of genetic disorders leading to the dysfunction of mitochondrial energy metabolism pathways. We aimed to assess the clinical phenotype and the biochemical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biogenic amine profiles of patients with different diagnoses of genetic mitochondrial diseases. We recruited 29 patients with genetically confirmed mitochondrial diseases harboring mutations in either nuclear or mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes. Signs and symptoms of impaired neurotransmission and neuroradiological data were recorded. CSF monoamines, pterins, and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5MTHF) concentrations were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical and fluorescence detection procedures. The mtDNA mutations were studied by Sanger sequencing, Southern blot, and real-time PCR, and nuclear DNA was assessed either by Sanger or next-generation sequencing. Five out of 29 cases showed predominant dopaminergic signs not attributable to basal ganglia involvement, harboring mutations in different nuclear genes. A chi-square test showed a statistically significant association between high homovanillic acid (HVA) values and low CSF 5-MTHF values (chi-square = 10.916; p = 0.001). Seven out of the eight patients with high CSF HVA values showed cerebral folate deficiency. Five of them harbored mtDNA deletions associated with Kearns-Sayre syndrome (KSS), one had a mitochondrial point mutation at the mtDNA ATPase6 gene, and one had a POLG mutation. In conclusion, dopamine deficiency clinical signs were present in some patients with mitochondrial diseases with different genetic backgrounds. High CSF HVA values, together with a severe cerebral folate deficiency, were observed in KSS patients and in other mtDNA mutation syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Batllori
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Molero-Luis
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aida Ormazabal
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Montero
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Sierra
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonia Ribes
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Bioquímica Clínica-Corporació Sanitaria Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julio Montoya
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eduardo Ruiz-Pesini
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Department, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mar O'Callaghan
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Neurology, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leticia Pias
- Pediatric Neurology, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrés Nascimento
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Neurology, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Palau
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Genetics Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Armstrong
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Genetics Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Delia Yubero
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Genetics Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Angels García-Cazorla
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Neurology, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Clinical Biochemistry, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain.
- CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, IRSJD and CIBERER, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu, 2., 08950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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35
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Diagnostic and Severity-Tracking Biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 66:492-511. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Rose S, Niyazov DM, Rossignol DA, Goldenthal M, Kahler SG, Frye RE. Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Diagn Ther 2018; 22:571-593. [PMID: 30039193 PMCID: PMC6132446 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0352-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects ~ 2% of children in the United States. The etiology of ASD likely involves environmental factors triggering physiological abnormalities in genetically sensitive individuals. One of these major physiological abnormalities is mitochondrial dysfunction, which may affect a significant subset of children with ASD. Here we systematically review the literature on human studies of mitochondrial dysfunction related to ASD. Clinical aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD include unusual neurodevelopmental regression, especially if triggered by an inflammatory event, gastrointestinal symptoms, seizures, motor delays, fatigue and lethargy. Traditional biomarkers of mitochondrial disease are widely reported to be abnormal in ASD, but appear non-specific. Newer biomarkers include buccal cell enzymology, biomarkers of fatty acid metabolism, non-mitochondrial enzyme function, apoptosis markers and mitochondrial antibodies. Many genetic abnormalities are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD, including chromosomal abnormalities, mitochondrial DNA mutations and large-scale deletions, and mutations in both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial nuclear genes. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been described in immune and buccal cells, fibroblasts, muscle and gastrointestinal tissue and the brains of individuals with ASD. Several environmental factors, including toxicants, microbiome metabolites and an oxidized microenvironment are shown to modulate mitochondrial function in ASD tissues. Investigations of treatments for mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are promising but preliminary. The etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction and how to define it in ASD is currently unclear. However, preliminary evidence suggests that the mitochondria may be a fruitful target for treatment and prevention of ASD. Further research is needed to better understand the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Rose
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dmitriy M Niyazov
- Section of Medical Genetics, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Michael Goldenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology Section, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stephen G Kahler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Division of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas St, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Rodan LH, Qi W, Ducker GS, Demirbas D, Laine R, Yang E, Walker MA, Eichler F, Rabinowitz JD, Anselm I, Berry GT. 5,10-methenyltetrahydrofolate synthetase deficiency causes a neurometabolic disorder associated with microcephaly, epilepsy, and cerebral hypomyelination. Mol Genet Metab 2018; 125:118-126. [PMID: 30031689 PMCID: PMC6557438 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Folate metabolism in the brain is critically important and serves a number of vital roles in nucleotide synthesis, single carbon metabolism/methylation, amino acid metabolism, and mitochondrial translation. Genetic defects in almost every enzyme of folate metabolism have been reported to date, and most have neurological sequelae. We report 2 patients presenting with a neurometabolic disorder associated with biallelic variants in the MTHFS gene, encoding 5,10-methenyltetrahydrofolate synthetase. Both patients presented with microcephaly, short stature, severe global developmental delay, progressive spasticity, epilepsy, and cerebral hypomyelination. Baseline CSF 5-methyltetrahydrolate (5-MTHF) levels were in the low-normal range. The first patient was treated with folinic acid, which resulted in worsening cerebral folate deficiency. Treatment in this patient with a combination of oral L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate and intramuscular methylcobalamin was able to increase CSF 5-MTHF levels, was well tolerated over a 4 month period, and resulted in subjective mild improvements in functioning. Measurement of MTHFS enzyme activity in fibroblasts confirmed reduced activity. The direct substrate of the MTHFS reaction, 5-formyl-THF, was elevated 30-fold in patient fibroblasts compared to control, supporting the hypothesis that the pathophysiology of this disorder is a manifestation of toxicity from this metabolite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance H Rodan
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Wanshu Qi
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gregory S Ducker
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Didem Demirbas
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Regina Laine
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edward Yang
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa A Walker
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Florian Eichler
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua D Rabinowitz
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Irina Anselm
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerard T Berry
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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38
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Agadi S. Does Folate Supplementation Leads to Better Seizure Control with Antiepileptic Drug Therapy? Indian J Pediatr 2018; 85:489. [PMID: 29777469 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-018-2698-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Satish Agadi
- Florida Epilepsy Center, Florida Hospital for Children, 615 E Princeton Avenue #540, Orlando, FL, 32803, USA.
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39
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Vidaurre J, Nunley S. Atypical Presentation of a Progressive and Treatable Encephalopathy in an Older Child With Gelastic and Dacrystic Seizures. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2018; 26:95-100. [PMID: 29961533 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We discuss an unusual case of a teenage boy who presented with waxing and waning cognitive decline and gelastic-dacrystic seizures, evolving later into a rapidly progressive encephalopathy with status epilepticus. Extensive genetic and metabolic testing did not lead to a specific diagnosis. Cerebrospinal fluid studies performed during admission to the intensive care unit provided the information needed to establish a diagnosis. After implementation of specific treatment, his seizures stopped and his background electroencephalogram returned to normal. He has remained largely seizure-free experiencing a significant cognitive recovery. This case illustrates the importance of performing cerebrospinal fluid analysis in patient with refractory seizures and cognitive decline of unknown etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Vidaurre
- From the Pediatric Neurology Division, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.
| | - Sunjay Nunley
- From the Pediatric Neurology Division, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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40
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Strobbe S, Van Der Straeten D. Toward Eradication of B-Vitamin Deficiencies: Considerations for Crop Biofortification. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 9:443. [PMID: 29681913 PMCID: PMC5897740 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.00443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
'Hidden hunger' involves insufficient intake of micronutrients and is estimated to affect over two billion people on a global scale. Malnutrition of vitamins and minerals is known to cause an alarming number of casualties, even in the developed world. Many staple crops, although serving as the main dietary component for large population groups, deliver inadequate amounts of micronutrients. Biofortification, the augmentation of natural micronutrient levels in crop products through breeding or genetic engineering, is a pivotal tool in the fight against micronutrient malnutrition (MNM). Although these approaches have shown to be successful in several species, a more extensive knowledge of plant metabolism and function of these micronutrients is required to refine and improve biofortification strategies. This review focuses on the relevant B-vitamins (B1, B6, and B9). First, the role of these vitamins in plant physiology is elaborated, as well their biosynthesis. Second, the rationale behind vitamin biofortification is illustrated in view of pathophysiology and epidemiology of the deficiency. Furthermore, advances in biofortification, via metabolic engineering or breeding, are presented. Finally, considerations on B-vitamin multi-biofortified crops are raised, comprising the possible interplay of these vitamins in planta.
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41
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Desai M, Chauhan J. Analysis of polymorphisms in genes involved in folate metabolism and its impact on Down syndrome and other intellectual disability. Meta Gene 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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42
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Prevention of behavioral deficits in rats exposed to folate receptor antibodies: implication in autism. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:1291-1297. [PMID: 27646260 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Folate receptor alpha (FRα) autoantibodies have been associated with fetal abnormalities and cerebral folate deficiency-related developmental disorders. Over 70% of the children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are positive for these autoantibodies and high-dose folinic acid is beneficial in treating these children. Here we show that antibodies (Abs) to the rat FRα administered during gestation produce communication, learning and cognitive deficits in a rat model that can be prevented by folinic acid and dexamethasone. FRα Ab can trigger inflammation as well as block folate transport to the fetus and to the developing brain to produce the functional deficits. In humans, exposure to FRα autoantibodies during fetal development and infancy could contribute to brain dysfunction such as that seen in ASD and other developmental disorders. Identifying women positive for the autoantibody and treating them with high-dose folinic acid along with other interventions to lower the autoantibody titer are effective strategies that may be considered to reduce the risk of having a child with developmental deficits.
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43
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Frye RE, Slattery JC, Quadros EV. Folate metabolism abnormalities in autism: potential biomarkers. Biomark Med 2017; 11:687-699. [PMID: 28770615 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2017-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been linked to abnormalities in folate metabolism. Polymorphisms in folate genes may act in complex polygenic ways to increase the risk of developing ASD. Autoantibodies that block folate transport into the brain have been associated with ASD and children with ASD and these autoantibodies respond to high doses of a reduced form of folate known as folinic acid (leucovorin calcium). Some of the same abnormalities are also found in mothers of children with ASD and supplementing folate during preconception and gestational periods reduces the risk to the offspring from developing ASD. These data suggest that folate pathway abnormalities may be a major metabolic disturbance underlying ASD that can be leveraged as biomarkers to improve symptoms and prevent ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Research Program, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
| | - John C Slattery
- Autism Research Program, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
| | - Edward V Quadros
- Department of Medicine, State University of New York - Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
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44
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Robert C, Pasquier L, Cohen D, Fradin M, Canitano R, Damaj L, Odent S, Tordjman S. Role of Genetics in the Etiology of Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Towards a Hierarchical Diagnostic Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E618. [PMID: 28287497 PMCID: PMC5372633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in epidemiological, molecular and clinical genetics with the development of new techniques has improved knowledge on genetic syndromes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The objective of this article is to show the diversity of genetic disorders associated with ASD (based on an extensive review of single-gene disorders, copy number variants, and other chromosomal disorders), and consequently to propose a hierarchical diagnostic strategy with a stepwise evaluation, helping general practitioners/pediatricians and child psychiatrists to collaborate with geneticists and neuropediatricians, in order to search for genetic disorders associated with ASD. The first step is a clinical investigation involving: (i) a child psychiatric and psychological evaluation confirming autism diagnosis from different observational sources and assessing autism severity; (ii) a neuropediatric evaluation examining neurological symptoms and developmental milestones; and (iii) a genetic evaluation searching for dysmorphic features and malformations. The second step involves laboratory and if necessary neuroimaging and EEG studies oriented by clinical results based on clinical genetic and neuropediatric examinations. The identification of genetic disorders associated with ASD has practical implications for diagnostic strategies, early detection or prevention of co-morbidity, specific treatment and follow up, and genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrille Robert
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent (PHUPEA), University of Rennes 1 and Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Régnier, 35200 Rennes, France.
- Service de Génétique Clinique, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Anomalies du Développement (Centre Labellisé pour les Anomalies du Développement de l'Ouest: CLAD Ouest), Hôpital Sud, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France.
| | - Laurent Pasquier
- Service de Génétique Clinique, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Anomalies du Développement (Centre Labellisé pour les Anomalies du Développement de l'Ouest: CLAD Ouest), Hôpital Sud, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France.
| | - David Cohen
- Hospital-University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pitié-Salpétrière Hospital, Paris 6 University, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - Mélanie Fradin
- Service de Génétique Clinique, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Anomalies du Développement (Centre Labellisé pour les Anomalies du Développement de l'Ouest: CLAD Ouest), Hôpital Sud, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France.
| | - Roberto Canitano
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Léna Damaj
- Service de Génétique Clinique, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Anomalies du Développement (Centre Labellisé pour les Anomalies du Développement de l'Ouest: CLAD Ouest), Hôpital Sud, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France.
| | - Sylvie Odent
- Service de Génétique Clinique, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Anomalies du Développement (Centre Labellisé pour les Anomalies du Développement de l'Ouest: CLAD Ouest), Hôpital Sud, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France.
| | - Sylvie Tordjman
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent (PHUPEA), University of Rennes 1 and Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Régnier, 35200 Rennes, France.
- Laboratory of Psychology of Perception, University Paris Descartes, 75270 Paris, France.
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45
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Co DO, Bordini BJ, Meyers AB, Inglese C. Immune-Mediated Diseases of the Central Nervous System: A Specificity-Focused Diagnostic Paradigm. Pediatr Clin North Am 2017; 64:57-90. [PMID: 27894452 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Immune-mediated diseases of the central nervous system show wide variability both symptomatically and with respect to underlying pathophysiology. Recognizing aberrant immunologic activity as the cause of neurologic dysfunction requires establishing as precise a neuroanatomic and functional phenotype as possible, and a diagnostic and therapeutic strategy that stabilizes the patient, excludes broad categories of disease via rapidly available diagnostic assays, and maintains a broad differential diagnosis that includes immune-mediated conditions. This process is aided by recognizing the appropriate clinical circumstances under which immune-mediated disease should be suspected, and how to differentiate these conditions from other causes of similar neurologic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic O Co
- Section of Pediatric Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 West Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| | - Brett J Bordini
- Section of Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 West Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Arthur B Meyers
- Department of Radiology, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, 6850 Lake Nona Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Christopher Inglese
- Section of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 West Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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46
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Akiyama T, Hayashi Y, Hanaoka Y, Shibata T, Akiyama M, Nakamura K, Tsuyusaki Y, Kubota M, Yoshinaga H, Kobayashi K. Simultaneous measurement of monoamine metabolites and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate in the cerebrospinal fluid of children. Clin Chim Acta 2017; 465:5-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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47
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Naninck EFG, Oosterink JE, Yam K, Vries LP, Schierbeek H, Goudoever JB, Verkaik‐Schakel R, Plantinga JA, Plosch T, Lucassen PJ, Korosi A. Early micronutrient supplementation protects against early stress‐induced cognitive impairments. FASEB J 2016; 31:505-518. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201600834r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva F. G. Naninck
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - J. Efraim Oosterink
- Department of Mother and Child, Emma Children's HospitalAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Kit‐Yi Yam
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Lennart P. Vries
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Henk Schierbeek
- Department of Mother and Child, Emma Children's HospitalAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Johannes B. Goudoever
- Department of Mother and Child, Emma Children's HospitalAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Rikst‐Nynke Verkaik‐Schakel
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Josèe A. Plantinga
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Torsten Plosch
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity Medical Center Groningen, University of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Paul J. Lucassen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Aniko Korosi
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for NeuroscienceUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Sarmah S, Muralidharan P, Marrs JA. Common congenital anomalies: Environmental causes and prevention with folic acid containing multivitamins. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 108:274-286. [PMID: 27718306 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Congenital anomalies, congenital defects, or birth defects are significant causes of death in infants. The most common congenital defects are congenital heart defects (CHDs) and neural tube defects (NTDs). Defects induced by genetic mutations, environmental exposure to toxins, or a combination of these effects can result in congenital malformations, leading to infant death or long-term disabilities. These defects produce significant mortality and morbidity in the affected individuals, and families are affected emotional and financially. Also, society is impacted on many levels. Congenital anomalies may be reduced by dietary supplements of folic acid and other vitamins. Here, we review the evidence for specific roles of toxins (alcohol, cigarette smoke) in causing common severe congenital anomalies like CHDs, NTDs, and ocular defects. We also review the evidence for beneficial effects for dietary supplementation, and highlight gaps in our knowledge, where research may contribute to additional benefits of intervention that can reduce birth defects. Extensive discussion of common severe congenital anomalies (CHDs, NTDs, and ocular defects) illustrates the effects of diet on the frequency and severity of these defects. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 108:274-286, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapnalee Sarmah
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202.
| | - Pooja Muralidharan
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202
| | - James A Marrs
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202.
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Akiyama M, Akiyama T, Kanamaru K, Kuribayashi M, Tada H, Shiokawa T, Toda S, Imai K, Kobayashi Y, Tohyama J, Sakakibara T, Yoshinaga H, Kobayashi K. Determination of CSF 5-methyltetrahydrofolate in children and its application for defects of folate transport and metabolism. Clin Chim Acta 2016; 460:120-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2016.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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Delmelle F, Thöny B, Clapuyt P, Blau N, Nassogne MC. Neurological improvement following intravenous high-dose folinic acid for cerebral folate transporter deficiency caused by FOLR-1 mutation. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2016; 20:709-13. [PMID: 27328863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2016.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral folate transporter deficiency caused by FOLR-1 mutations has been described in 2009. This condition is characterized by a 5MTHF level <5 nmol/l in the CSF, along with regression of acquisition in the second year of life, ataxia, and refractory myoclonic epilepsy. Oral or intravenous folinic acid (5-formyltetrahydrofolate) treatment has been shown to improve clinical status. CASE PRESENTATION We present the cases of two sisters with cerebral folate transport deficiency caused by mutation in the folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) gene (MIM *136430). Following recommendations, we administered oral folinic acid at 5 mg/kg/day, resulting in some initial clinical improvement, yet severe epilepsy persisted. During treatment, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed normal 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5MTHF) levels (60.1 nmol/l; normal range: 53-182 nmol/l). Epilepsy proved difficult to control and the younger patient exhibited neurological regression. We then administered high-dose folinic acid intravenously over 3 days (6 mg/kg/day for 24 h, then 12 mg/kg/day for 48 h), which significantly improved clinical status and epilepsy. CSF analysis revealed high 5MTHF levels following intravenous infusion (180 nmol/l). Treatment continued with monthly intravenous administrations of 20-25 mg/kg folinic acid. At 2 years post-treatment, clinical improvement was confirmed. CONCLUSIONS This report illustrates that cerebral folate transporter deficiency caused by FOLR-1 mutations is a treatable condition and can potentially be cured by folinic acid treatment. As already reported, early effective treatment is known to improve outcomes in affected children. In our study, intravenous high-dose folinic acid infusions appeared to optimize clinical response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Françoise Delmelle
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Beat Thöny
- Division of Metabolism, University Children's Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Clapuyt
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nenad Blau
- University Children's Hospital, Division of Inborn Metabolic Diseases, Department of General Pediatrics, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marie-Cécile Nassogne
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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