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Rohdin C, Ljungvall I, Jäderlund KH, Svensson A, Lindblad-Toh K, Häggström J. Assessment of glial fibrillary acidic protein and anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein autoantibody concentrations and necrotising meningoencephalitis risk genotype in dogs with pug dog myelopathy. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3895. [PMID: 38704817 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pugs commonly present with thoracolumbar myelopathy, also known as pug dog myelopathy (PDM), which is clinically characterised by progressive signs involving the pelvic limbs, no apparent signs of pain and, often, incontinence. In addition to meningeal fibrosis and focal spinal cord destruction, histopathology has confirmed lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in the central nervous system (CNS) in a considerable number of pugs with PDM. Lymphohistiocytic CNS inflammation also characterises necrotising meningoencephalitis (NME) in pugs. This study aimed to investigate the potential contribution of an immunological aetiology to the development of PDM. METHODS The concentrations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in serum and CSF and of anti-GFAP autoantibodies in CSF were measured with an ELISA. In addition, a commercial test was used for genetic characterisation of the dog leukocyte antigen class II haplotype, which is associated with NME susceptibility. RESULTS This study included 87 dogs: 52 PDM pugs, 14 control pugs, four NME pugs and 17 dogs of breeds other than pugs that were investigated for neurological disease (neuro controls). Anti-GFAP autoantibodies were present in 15 of 19 (79%) of the PDM pugs tested versus six of 16 (38%) of the neuro controls tested (p = 0.018). All 18 PDM pugs evaluated had detectable CSF GFAP. Serum GFAP was detected in two of three (67%) of the NME pugs and in two of 11 (18%) of the control pugs but not in any of the 40 tested PDM pugs. Male pugs heterozygous for the NME risk haplotype had an earlier onset of clinical signs (70 months) compared to male pugs without the risk haplotype (78 months) (p = 0.036). LIMITATIONS The study was limited by the lack of healthy dogs of breeds other than pugs and the small numbers of control pugs and pugs with NME. CONCLUSIONS The high proportion of PDM pugs with anti-GFAP autoantibodies and high CSF GFAP concentrations provide support for a potential immunological contribution to the development of PDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Rohdin
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Anicura, Albano Small Animal Hospital, Danderyd, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Ljungvall
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Hultin Jäderlund
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Anna Svensson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Lindblad-Toh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jens Häggström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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2
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Bellanti R, Rinaldi S. Guillain-Barré syndrome: A comprehensive review. Eur J Neurol 2024:e16365. [PMID: 38813755 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a potentially devastating yet treatable disorder. A classically postinfectious, immune-mediated, monophasic polyradiculoneuropathy, it is the leading global cause of acquired neuromuscular paralysis. In most cases, the immunopathological process driving nerve injury is ill-defined. Diagnosis of GBS relies on clinical features, supported by laboratory findings and electrophysiology. Although previously divided into primary demyelinating or axonal variants, this dichotomy is increasingly challenged, and is not endorsed by the recent European Academy of Neurology (EAN)/Peripheral Nerve Society (PNS) guidelines. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange remain the primary modalities of treatment, regardless of the electrophysiological subtype. Most patients recover, but approximately one-third require mechanical ventilation, and 5% die. Disease activity and treatment response are currently monitored through interval neurological examination and outcome measures, and the potential role of fluid biomarkers is under ongoing scrutiny. Novel potential therapies for GBS are being explored but none have yet modified clinical practice. This review provides a comprehensive update on the pathological and clinical aspects of GBS for clinicians and scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bellanti
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Simon Rinaldi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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3
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Khalil M, Teunissen CE, Lehmann S, Otto M, Piehl F, Ziemssen T, Bittner S, Sormani MP, Gattringer T, Abu-Rumeileh S, Thebault S, Abdelhak A, Green A, Benkert P, Kappos L, Comabella M, Tumani H, Freedman MS, Petzold A, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Leppert D, Kuhle J. Neurofilaments as biomarkers in neurological disorders - towards clinical application. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:269-287. [PMID: 38609644 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-00955-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Neurofilament proteins have been validated as specific body fluid biomarkers of neuro-axonal injury. The advent of highly sensitive analytical platforms that enable reliable quantification of neurofilaments in blood samples and simplify longitudinal follow-up has paved the way for the development of neurofilaments as a biomarker in clinical practice. Potential applications include assessment of disease activity, monitoring of treatment responses, and determining prognosis in many acute and chronic neurological disorders as well as their use as an outcome measure in trials of novel therapies. Progress has now moved the measurement of neurofilaments to the doorstep of routine clinical practice for the evaluation of individuals. In this Review, we first outline current knowledge on the structure and function of neurofilaments. We then discuss analytical and statistical approaches and challenges in determining neurofilament levels in different clinical contexts and assess the implications of neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels in normal ageing and the confounding factors that need to be considered when interpreting NfL measures. In addition, we summarize the current value and potential clinical applications of neurofilaments as a biomarker of neuro-axonal damage in a range of neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke and cerebrovascular disease, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson disease. We also consider the steps needed to complete the translation of neurofilaments from the laboratory to the management of neurological diseases in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Neurochemistry Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sylvain Lehmann
- LBPC-PPC, Université de Montpellier, INM INSERM, IRMB CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Markus Otto
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Bittner
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine-Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Maria Pia Sormani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Thomas Gattringer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Division of Neuroradiology, Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Samir Abu-Rumeileh
- Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Simon Thebault
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ahmed Abdelhak
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ari Green
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Pascal Benkert
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience (RC2NB), Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience (RC2NB), Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Comabella
- Neurology Department, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hayrettin Tumani
- Department of Neurology, CSF Laboratory, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Mark S Freedman
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Axel Petzold
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, MS Centre and Neuro-ophthalmology Expertise Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and the Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Paris Brain Institute, ICM, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
- Neurodegenerative Disorder Research Center, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, and Department of Neurology, Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, University of Science and Technology of China and First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong, China
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David Leppert
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience (RC2NB), Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience (RC2NB), Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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4
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Plantone D, Primiano G. Serum neurofilament light chain and small fiber neuropathy: Every cloud has a silver lining. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16244. [PMID: 38344915 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Plantone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Guido Primiano
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario 'A.Gemelli' IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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5
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Ding EA, Kumar S. Neurofilament Biophysics: From Structure to Biomechanics. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:re1. [PMID: 38598299 PMCID: PMC11151108 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-11-0438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofilaments (NFs) are multisubunit, neuron-specific intermediate filaments consisting of a 10-nm diameter filament "core" surrounded by a layer of long intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) "tails." NFs are thought to regulate axonal caliber during development and then stabilize the mature axon, with NF subunit misregulation, mutation, and aggregation featuring prominently in multiple neurological diseases. The field's understanding of NF structure, mechanics, and function has been deeply informed by a rich variety of biochemical, cell biological, and mouse genetic studies spanning more than four decades. These studies have contributed much to our collective understanding of NF function in axonal physiology and disease. In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in NF subunit proteins in two new contexts: as potential blood- and cerebrospinal fluid-based biomarkers of neuronal damage, and as model IDPs with intriguing properties. Here, we review established principles and more recent discoveries in NF structure and function. Where possible, we place these findings in the context of biophysics of NF assembly, interaction, and contributions to axonal mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika A. Ding
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158
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6
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van Tilburg SJ, Teunissen CE, Maas CCHM, Thomma RCM, Walgaard C, Heijst H, Huizinga R, van Doorn PA, Jacobs BC. Dynamics and prognostic value of serum neurofilament light chain in Guillain-Barré syndrome. EBioMedicine 2024; 102:105072. [PMID: 38518653 PMCID: PMC10980997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a biomarker for axonal damage in several neurological disorders. We studied the longitudinal changes in serum NfL in patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in relation to disease severity, electrophysiological subtype, treatment response, and prognosis. METHODS We included patients with GBS who participated in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial that evaluated the effects of a second course of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) on clinical outcomes. Serum NfL levels were measured before initiation of treatment and at one, two, four, and twelve weeks using a Simoa HD-X Analyzer. Serum NfL dynamics were analysed using linear mixed-effects models. Logistic regression was employed to determine the associations of serum NfL with clinical outcome and the prognostic value of serum NfL after correcting for known prognostic markers included in the modified Erasmus GBS Outcome Score (mEGOS). FINDINGS NfL levels were tested in serum from 281 patients. Serum NfL dynamics were associated with disease severity and electrophysiological subtype. Strong associations were found between high levels of serum NfL at two weeks and inability to walk unaided at four weeks (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.27-2.45), and high serum NfL levels at four weeks and inability to walk unaided at 26 weeks (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.72-4.90). Baseline serum NfL had the most significant prognostic value for ability to walk, independent of predictors included in the mEGOS. The time to regain ability to walk unaided was significantly longer for patients with highest serum NfL levels at baseline (p = 0.0048) and week 2 (p < 0.0001). No differences in serum NfL were observed between patients that received a second IVIg course vs. IVIg and placebo. INTERPRETATION Serum NfL levels are associated with disease severity, axonal involvement, and poor outcome in GBS. Serum NfL potentially represents a biomarker to monitor neuronal damage in GBS and an intermediate endpoint to evaluate the effects of treatment. FUNDING Prinses Beatrix Spierfonds W.OR19-24.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander J van Tilburg
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Carolien C H M Maas
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robin C M Thomma
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christa Walgaard
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Heijst
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ruth Huizinga
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter A van Doorn
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart C Jacobs
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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7
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Freedman MS, Gnanapavan S, Booth RA, Calabresi PA, Khalil M, Kuhle J, Lycke J, Olsson T. Guidance for use of neurofilament light chain as a cerebrospinal fluid and blood biomarker in multiple sclerosis management. EBioMedicine 2024; 101:104970. [PMID: 38354532 PMCID: PMC10875256 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.104970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a long-awaited blood biomarker that can provide clinically useful information about prognosis and therapeutic efficacy in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is now substantial evidence for this biomarker to be used alongside magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical measures of disease progression as a decision-making tool for the management of patients with MS. Serum NfL (sNfL) has certain advantages over traditional measures of MS disease progression such as MRI because it is relatively noninvasive, inexpensive, and can be repeated frequently to monitor activity and treatment efficacy. sNfL levels can be monitored regularly in patients with MS to determine change from baseline and predict subclinical disease activity, relapse risk, and the development of gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) lesions. sNfL does not replace MRI, which provides information related to spatial localisation and lesion stage. Laboratory platforms are starting to be made available for clinical application of sNfL in several countries. Further work is needed to resolve issues around comparisons across testing platforms (absolute values) and normalisation (reference ranges) in order to guide interpretation of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Freedman
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), University of Ottawa, and the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Ronald A Booth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital & Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter A Calabresi
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Neurology, Departments of Head, Spine and Neuromedicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Lycke
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tomas Olsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
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8
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Bellanti R, Keddie S, Lunn MP, Rinaldi S. Ultrasensitive assay technology and fluid biomarkers for the evaluation of peripheral nerve disease. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:114-124. [PMID: 37821222 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-332031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The field of biomarker discovery is rapidly expanding. The introduction of ultrasensitive immunoassays and the growing precision of genetic technologies are poised to revolutionise the assessment and monitoring of many diseases. Given the difficulties in imaging and tissue diagnosis, there is mounting interest in serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of peripheral neuropathy. Realised and potential fluid biomarkers of peripheral nerve disease include neuronal biomarkers of axonal degeneration, glial biomarkers for peripheral demyelinating disorders, immunopathogenic biomarkers (such as the presence and titre of antibodies or the levels of cytokines) and genetic biomarkers. Several are already starting to inform clinical practice, whereas others remain under evaluation as potential indicators of disease activity and treatment response. As more biomarkers become available for clinical use, it has become increasingly difficult for clinicians and researchers to keep up-to-date with the most recent discovery and interpretation. In this review, we aim to inform practising neurologists, neuroscientists and other clinicians about recent advances in fluid biomarker technology, with a focus on single molecule arrays (Simoa), chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassays (CLEIA), electrochemiluminescence (ECL), proximity extension assays (PEA), and microfluidic technology. We discuss established and emerging fluid biomarkers of peripheral neuropathy, their clinical applications, limitations and potential future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bellanti
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen Keddie
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Michael P Lunn
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Neuroinflammation, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Simon Rinaldi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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9
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Schuldt AL, Bern H, Hart M, Gompels M, Winston A, Clarke A, Chen F, Stöhr W, Heslegrave A, Paton NI, Petzold A, Arenas-Pinto A. Peripheral Neuropathy in Virologically Suppressed People Living with HIV: Evidence from the PIVOT Trial. Viruses 2023; 16:2. [PMID: 38275937 PMCID: PMC10818628 DOI: 10.3390/v16010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to identify the factors associated with peripheral neuropathy and to explore neurofilament light chain (NfL) as a biomarker for peripheral neuropathy (PN) in effectively virologically suppressed adults living with HIV. All protease inhibitor monotherapy versus ongoing triple therapy in the long-term management of HIV infection (PIVOT) trial participants with data on PN at baseline were included in the study. NfL plasma levels (pNfL) were measured in a sub-set of participants. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the associations of PN with potential risk factors (including age, sex, nadir CD4 cell count, history of dideoxynucleoside (d-drugs) exposure, and blood glucose levels) and NfL levels. Of the 585 participants included, 131 (22.4%) reported PN during the study period (median of 44 months). The participants were predominantly male (76.6%), White (68.2%), and virologically suppressed for a median period of 37 months (range of 20-63) before recruitment. The age at baseline was 44.3 years (standard deviation (SD) of 9.2). PN was independently associated with age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.35, 95% CI of 1.20-1.52; additional 5 years), history of d-drugs (aOR 1.88, 95% CI of 1.12-3.16), height (aOR 1.19, 95% CI of 1.05-1.35; additional 5 cm), nadir CD4 cell count (aOR 1.10 CI of 1.00-1.20; 50 cells fewer), and metabolic syndrome (aOR 2.31, 95% CI of 1.27 4.20), but not pNfL. The excess risk for PN associated with d-drug use remains after the exposure has stopped for years, suggesting non-reversible toxicity. In people with HIV, metabolic syndrome is independently associated with PN. There was no additional value for pNfL as a screening test for peripheral neuropathy in effectively virologically suppressed adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L. Schuldt
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - Henry Bern
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, University College London, London WC1V 6LJ, UK (W.S.)
| | - Melanie Hart
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK; (M.H.); (A.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Mark Gompels
- Service of Immunology, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Alan Winston
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK;
| | - Amanda Clarke
- Department of HIV, Sexual Health and Contraception, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton BN11 2DH, UK;
| | - Fabian Chen
- Florey Unit Clinic for Sexual Health, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading RG1 5AN, UK;
| | - Wolfgang Stöhr
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, University College London, London WC1V 6LJ, UK (W.S.)
| | - Amanda Heslegrave
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK; (M.H.); (A.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Nicholas I. Paton
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, University College London, London WC1V 6LJ, UK (W.S.)
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Axel Petzold
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK; (M.H.); (A.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Alejandro Arenas-Pinto
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London WC1E 6JB, UK
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, University College London, London WC1V 6LJ, UK (W.S.)
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10
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Brummer T, Schillner M, Steffen F, Kneilmann F, Wasser B, Uphaus T, Zipp F, Bittner S. Spatial transcriptomics and neurofilament light chain reveal changes in lesion patterns in murine autoimmune neuroinflammation. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:262. [PMID: 37957728 PMCID: PMC10644497 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ongoing neuroaxonal damage is a major contributor to disease progression and long-term disability in multiple sclerosis. However, spatio-temporal distribution and pathophysiological mechanisms of neuroaxonal damage during acute relapses and later chronic disease stages remain poorly understood. METHODS Here, we applied immunohistochemistry, single-molecule array, spatial transcriptomics, and microglia/axon co-cultures to gain insight into spatio-temporal neuroaxonal damage in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). RESULTS Association of spinal cord white matter lesions and blood-based neurofilament light (sNfL) levels revealed a distinct, stage-dependent anatomical pattern of neuroaxonal damage: in chronic EAE, sNfL levels were predominately associated with anterolateral lumbar lesions, whereas in early EAE sNfL showed no correlation with lesions in any anatomical location. Furthermore, neuroaxonal damage in late EAE was largely confined to white matter lesions but showed a widespread distribution in early EAE. Following this pattern of neuroaxonal damage, spatial transcriptomics revealed a widespread cyto- and chemokine response at early disease stages, whereas late EAE was characterized by a prominent glial cell accumulation in white matter lesions. These findings were corroborated by immunohistochemistry and microglia/axon co-cultures, which further revealed a strong association between CNS myeloid cell activation and neuroaxonal damage both in vivo and in vitro. INTERPRETATION Our findings indicate that CNS myeloid cells may play a crucial role in driving neuroaxonal damage in EAE. Moreover, neuroaxonal damage can progress in a stage-dependent centripetal manner, transitioning from normal-appearing white matter to focal white matter lesions. These insights may contribute to a better understanding of neurodegeneration and elevated sNfL levels observed in multiple sclerosis patients at different disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Brummer
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Miriam Schillner
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Falk Steffen
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Flores Kneilmann
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Beatrice Wasser
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Timo Uphaus
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frauke Zipp
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Bittner
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN) and Immunotherapy (FZI), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (Rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
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11
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Keddie S, Smyth D, Keh RYS, Chou MKL, Grant D, Surana S, Heslegrave A, Zetterberg H, Wieske L, Michael M, Eftimov F, Bellanti R, Rinaldi S, Hart MS, Petzold A, Lunn MP. Peripherin is a biomarker of axonal damage in peripheral nervous system disease. Brain 2023; 146:4562-4573. [PMID: 37435933 PMCID: PMC10629771 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Valid, responsive blood biomarkers specific to peripheral nerve damage would improve management of peripheral nervous system (PNS) diseases. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is sensitive for detecting axonal pathology but is not specific to PNS damage, as it is expressed throughout the PNS and CNS. Peripherin, another intermediate filament protein, is almost exclusively expressed in peripheral nerve axons. We postulated that peripherin would be a promising blood biomarker of PNS axonal damage. We demonstrated that peripherin is distributed in sciatic nerve, and to a lesser extent spinal cord tissue lysates, but not in brain or extra-neural tissues. In the spinal cord, anti-peripherin antibody bound only to the primary cells of the periphery (anterior horn cells, motor axons and primary afferent sensory axons). In vitro models of antibody-mediated axonal and demyelinating nerve injury showed marked elevation of peripherin levels only in axonal damage and only a minimal rise in demyelination. We developed an immunoassay using single molecule array technology for the detection of serum peripherin as a biomarker for PNS axonal damage. We examined longitudinal serum peripherin and NfL concentrations in individuals with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS, n = 45, 179 time points), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP, n = 35, 70 time points), multiple sclerosis (n = 30), dementia (as non-inflammatory CNS controls, n = 30) and healthy individuals (n = 24). Peak peripherin levels were higher in GBS than all other groups (median 18.75 pg/ml versus < 6.98 pg/ml, P < 0.0001). Peak NfL was highest in GBS (median 220.8 pg/ml) and lowest in healthy controls (median 5.6 pg/ml), but NfL did not distinguish between CIDP (17.3 pg/ml), multiple sclerosis (21.5 pg/ml) and dementia (29.9 pg/ml). While peak NfL levels were higher with older age (rho = +0.39, P < 0.0001), peak peripherin levels did not vary with age. In GBS, local regression analysis of serial peripherin in the majority of individuals with three or more time points of data (16/25) displayed a rise-and-fall pattern with the highest value within the first week of initial assessment. Similar analysis of serial NfL concentrations showed a later peak at 16 days. Group analysis of serum peripherin and NfL levels in GBS and CIDP patients were not significantly associated with clinical data, but in some individuals with GBS, peripherin levels appeared to better reflect clinical outcome measure improvement. Serum peripherin is a promising new, dynamic and specific biomarker of acute PNS axonal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Keddie
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Duncan Smyth
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Ryan Y S Keh
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Michael K L Chou
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- NHS Neuroimmunology and CSF Laboratory, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Donna Grant
- NHS Neuroimmunology and CSF Laboratory, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Department of Neuroinflammation, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Sunaina Surana
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Amanda Heslegrave
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong, China
- Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal 431 41, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal 431 41, Sweden
| | - Luuk Wieske
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Milou Michael
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Filip Eftimov
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Bellanti
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Simon Rinaldi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Melanie S Hart
- NHS Neuroimmunology and CSF Laboratory, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Department of Neuroinflammation, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Axel Petzold
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- UCL Clinical and Movement Neurosciences Department, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Michael P Lunn
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- NHS Neuroimmunology and CSF Laboratory, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
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12
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Zoccali F, Petrella C, Zingaropoli MA, Fiore M, Ralli M, Minni A, Barbato C. Neurofilament Expression as a Biomarker of Post-COVID-19 Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Diseases 2023; 11:92. [PMID: 37489444 PMCID: PMC10366716 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11030092] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) affects a patient's quality of life and requires rapid treatment. The etiology is viral, vascular, and autoimmune, even though, in most cases, it remains idiopathic SSHL. Since 2019, several different complications have been identified following COVID-19 infection. The post-COVID-19 ENT manifestations reported in the literature are sore throat, headache, pharyngeal erythema, nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, and tonsil enlargement. Cases of SSHL, vestibular neuronitis, and audio-vestibular disorders (such as tinnitus, dizziness, and vertigo) have also been reported, albeit in a smaller percentage of patients. We reported our experience of a case of post-COVID-19 SSHL in the absence of any other type of post-COVID symptoms or brain and internal auditory canal magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography modifications. We aimed to identify a serological biomarker of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and we also dosed and monitored the value of the serum neurofilament light (NfL). the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that associates SSHL and the serological increase in NfL as a potential biomarker of neuronal-disease-related damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Zoccali
- Department of Sense Organs DOS, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Petrella
- Department of Sense Organs DOS, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Antonella Zingaropoli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Ralli
- Department of Sense Organs DOS, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Minni
- Department of Sense Organs DOS, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Ospedale San Camillo de Lellis, ASL Rieti-Sapienza University, Viale Kennedy, 02100 Rieti, Italy
| | - Christian Barbato
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
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13
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Bircak-Kuchtova B, Chung HY, Wickel J, Ehler J, Geis C. Neurofilament light chains to assess sepsis-associated encephalopathy: Are we on the track toward clinical implementation? Crit Care 2023; 27:214. [PMID: 37259091 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-023-04497-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is the most common cause of admission to intensive care units worldwide. Sepsis patients frequently suffer from sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) reflecting acute brain dysfunction. SAE may result in increased mortality, extended length of hospital stay, and long-term cognitive dysfunction. The diagnosis of SAE is based on clinical assessments, but a valid biomarker to identify and confirm SAE and to assess SAE severity is missing. Several blood-based biomarkers indicating neuronal injury have been evaluated in sepsis and their potential role as early diagnosis and prognostic markers has been studied. Among those, the neuroaxonal injury marker neurofilament light chain (NfL) was identified to potentially serve as a prognostic biomarker for SAE and to predict long-term cognitive impairment. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of biomarkers, especially NfL, in SAE and discuss a possible future clinical application considering existing limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Bircak-Kuchtova
- Section Translational Neuroimmunology, Department for Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Ha-Yeun Chung
- Section Translational Neuroimmunology, Department for Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| | - Jonathan Wickel
- Section Translational Neuroimmunology, Department for Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Johannes Ehler
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Geis
- Section Translational Neuroimmunology, Department for Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, 07747, Jena, Germany
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14
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Wong SH, Petzold A. Remodeling of the neuromuscular junction in myasthenia gravis increases serum neurofilament heavy chain levels. Muscle Nerve 2023. [PMID: 37144900 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27838] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS In myasthenia gravis, prolonged muscle denervation causes muscle atrophy. We re-visited this observation using a biomarker hypothesis. We tested if serum neurofilament heavy chain levels, a biomarker for axonal degeneration, were elevated in myasthenia gravis. METHODS We enrolled 70 patients with isolated ocular myasthenia gravis and 74 controls recruited from patients in the emergency department. Demographic data were collected alongside serum samples. Serum samples were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the neurofilament heavy chain (NfH-SMI35). The statistical analyses included group comparisons, receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. RESULTS Serum neurofilament heavy chain levels were significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in individuals with myasthenia gravis (0.19 ng/mL) than in healthy control subjects (0.07 ng/mL). A ROC AUC optimized cutoff level of 0.06 ng/mL gave a diagnostic sensitivity of 82%, specificity of 76%, positive predictive value of 0.77 and a negative predictive value of 0.81. DISCUSSION The increase of serum neurofilament heavy chain levels in myasthenia gravis is consistent with observations of muscle denervation. We suggest that there is ongoing remodeling of the neuromuscular junction in myasthenia gravis. Longitudinal quantification of neurofilament isoform levels will be needed to investigate the prognostic value and potentially guide treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sui H Wong
- UCL Institute of Neurology, Department of Neuroimmunology & The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Axel Petzold
- UCL Institute of Neurology, Department of Neuroimmunology & The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
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15
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Arslan B, Zetterberg H. Neurofilament light chain as neuronal injury marker - what is needed to facilitate implementation in clinical laboratory practice? Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:1140-1149. [PMID: 36880940 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurobiomarkers have attracted significant attention over the last ten years. One promising biomarker is the neurofilament light chain protein (NfL). Since the introduction of ultrasensitive assays, NfL has been developed into a widely used axonal damage marker of relevance to the diagnosis, prognostication, follow-up, and treatment monitoring of a range of neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. The marker is increasingly used clinically, as well as in clinical trials. Even if we have validated precise, sensitive, and specific assays for NfL quantification in both cerebrospinal fluid and blood, there are analytical, as well as pre- and post-analytical aspects of the total NfL testing process, including biomarker interpretation, to consider. Although the biomarker is already in use in specialised clinical laboratory settings, a more general use requires some further work. In this review, we provide brief basic information and opinions on NfL as a biomarker of axonal injury in neurological diseases and pinpoint additional work needed to facilitate biomarker implementation in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burak Arslan
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at The University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at The University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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16
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Role of the Intermediate Filament Protein Peripherin in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315416. [PMID: 36499746 PMCID: PMC9740141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315416] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intermediate filaments are the most heterogeneous class among cytoskeletal elements. While some of them have been well-characterized, little is known about peripherin. Peripherin is a class III intermediate filament protein with a specific expression in the peripheral nervous system. Epigenetic modifications are involved in this cell-type-specific expression. Peripherin has important roles in neurite outgrowth and stability, axonal transport, and axonal myelination. Moreover, peripherin interacts with proteins involved in vesicular trafficking, signal transduction, DNA/RNA processing, protein folding, and mitochondrial metabolism, suggesting a role in all these processes. This review collects information regarding peripherin gene regulation, post-translational modifications, and functions and its involvement in the onset of a number of diseases.
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