1
|
Kassahun Bekele B, Kwizera L, Abdul Razzak R, Alfadul ES, Anand A, Wojtara M, Nazir A, Uwishema O. ALS in Africa: current knowledge and exciting opportunities for future study - short communication. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:5827-5830. [PMID: 37915644 PMCID: PMC10617860 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001319] [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: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that can present with motor and extra-motor manifestations. Its global prevalence is 4.42 per 1 000 000, and it has a high mortality rate. In sub-Saharan Africa alone, 15 per 100 000 develop ALS mainly between their 40s and 60s and only one-fourth of them have access to treatment. ALS was found to be not only affected by genetic variation but also by the patient's mood and lifestyle. In Africa, males and younger people tend to be affected with ALS and rarely present with bulbar onset. ALS diagnosis is very challenging due to the lack of ALS-specific biomarkers and the sharing of some clinical features with other syndromes. ALS treatment is mainly riluzole and supportive treatment via nasogastric tube and ventilatory support. The access to treatment in Africa is very limited, thus a very bad prognosis with a median survival time of 14 months post-diagnosis. Further research is needed to assess the real situation in Africa and to try to closely monitor patients suffering from ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bezawit Kassahun Bekele
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Addis Ababa University, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- George Washington University, Milken Institute of Public Health, Washington DC
| | - Lambert Kwizera
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- AgriConsult Group Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Rawane Abdul Razzak
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Esraa S.A. Alfadul
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ayush Anand
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
| | - Magda Wojtara
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Abubakar Nazir
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
| | - Olivier Uwishema
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Clinton Global Initiative University, New York, New York, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Floudiotis N, Modi G, Mochan A. Motor neuron disease in black African patients at a tertiary care hospital in Soweto, South Africa. J Neurol Sci 2023; 451:120710. [PMID: 37379726 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.120710] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this brief report, we describe the nature of ALS in a South African cohort of patients of Black African ancestry - a population which has been historically understudied. METHODS We performed a chart review of all patients attending the ALS/MND clinic at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, during the period 1 January 2015 to 30 June 2020. Cross-sectional demographic and clinical data captured at the time of diagnosis was collected. RESULTS Seventy-one patients were included in the study. Males constituted 66% (n = 47), with a male to female sex ratio of 2:1. The median age at onset of symptoms was 46 years (IQR 40-57) with a median disease duration at diagnosis (diagnostic delay) of 2 years (IQR 1-3). The onset was spinal in 76% and bulbar in 23%. The median ALSFRS-R score at time of presentation was 29 (IQR 23-38.5). The median ALSFRS-R slope (unit/month) was 0.80 (IQR 0.43-1.39). Sixty five patients (92%) were diagnosed with the classic ALS phenotype. Fourteen patients were known to be HIV positive, and of those, 12 were on antiretroviral treatment (ART). None of the patients had familial ALS. CONCLUSION Our findings of an earlier age at symptom onset and seemingly advanced disease at presentation in patients with Black African ancestry support the existing literature on the African population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niki Floudiotis
- Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Girish Modi
- Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Andre Mochan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fatoki TH, Chukwuejim S, Udenigwe CC, Aluko RE. In Silico Exploration of Metabolically Active Peptides as Potential Therapeutic Agents against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5828. [PMID: 36982902 PMCID: PMC10058213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065828] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is regarded as a fatal neurodegenerative disease that is featured by progressive damage of the upper and lower motor neurons. To date, over 45 genes have been found to be connected with ALS pathology. The aim of this work was to computationally identify unique sets of protein hydrolysate peptides that could serve as therapeutic agents against ALS. Computational methods which include target prediction, protein-protein interaction, and peptide-protein molecular docking were used. The results showed that the network of critical ALS-associated genes consists of ATG16L2, SCFD1, VAC15, VEGFA, KEAP1, KIF5A, FIG4, TUBA4A, SIGMAR1, SETX, ANXA11, HNRNPL, NEK1, C9orf72, VCP, RPSA, ATP5B, and SOD1 together with predicted kinases such as AKT1, CDK4, DNAPK, MAPK14, and ERK2 in addition to transcription factors such as MYC, RELA, ZMIZ1, EGR1, TRIM28, and FOXA2. The identified molecular targets of the peptides that support multi-metabolic components in ALS pathogenesis include cyclooxygenase-2, angiotensin I-converting enzyme, dipeptidyl peptidase IV, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3, and endothelin receptor ET-A. Overall, the results showed that AGL, APL, AVK, IIW, PVI, and VAY peptides are promising candidates for further study. Future work would be needed to validate the therapeutic properties of these hydrolysate peptides by in vitro and in vivo approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toluwase Hezekiah Fatoki
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB 373, Oye 371104, Nigeria; (T.H.F.); (S.C.)
| | - Stanley Chukwuejim
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB 373, Oye 371104, Nigeria; (T.H.F.); (S.C.)
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Chibuike C. Udenigwe
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nutrition Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada;
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Rotimi E. Aluko
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
- Richardson Centre for Food Technology and Research, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Suresh NT, E R V, Krishnakumar U. Topology Driven Analysis of Protein - Protein Interactome for Prioritizing Key Comorbid Genes via Sub Graph Based Average Path Length Centrality. IEEE/ACM TRANSACTIONS ON COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY AND BIOINFORMATICS 2023; 20:742-751. [PMID: 34986099 DOI: 10.1109/tcbb.2022.3140388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In gene-based therapies, local perturbations associated with one disease can lead to comorbidity as it influences the pathways involved with the other diseases. The key genes orchestrating the common biological mechanisms are need to be prioritized for addressing the challenges introduced by the cross talks between disease modules. Here, a local centrality measure named Sub graph based Average Path length Double Specific Betweenness centrality (SAPDSB) for prioritizing the comorbid genes via Protein-Protein Interaction Network (PPIN) analysis is presented. This approach can be used to identify putative biomarkers which can be repurposed for the management of comorbidity. Proposed network based topological measure is designed specifically to prioritize the comorbid genes that are most likely to be present in the overlap of disease modules. In order to attain this, the estimated average path length of the seed network which holds Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) of the disease genes is exploited. Prioritized comorbid genes are further pruned using centrality-based cut-off values and specificity scores. The biological significance of the resultant genes is corroborated with connectivity analysis using leave-one-out method, pathway enrichment analysis and a comparative analysis using single disease-based gene prioritization tools. For performance analysis, proposed approach is tested using case studies involving common diseases and rare neurodegenerative diseases. For case study1, diseases such as Diabetes, Carcinoma and Alzheimer's are considered in a pairwise manner while for case study2, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) are considered. As outcome, prioritized candidate genes and biological pathways associated with respective disease pairs have been found. The associations from top 10 candidate genes in different disease pair combinations of Diabetes-Carcinoma-Alzheimer's revealed common genes like CREBBP, TP53, HSP90AA1 and the common pathway namely p53 pathway feedback loops 2. Out of the pathways retrieved from the top 10 genes associated with ALS-SMA disease pair, 60% of unique pathways are found to be leading to both diseases and its comorbidities. Comparative analysis of the proposed method with recent similar approach also reported a clear degree of benefits in performance.
Collapse
|
5
|
Inherited myopathies in patients from Sub-Saharan Africa: Results from a retrospective cohort. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 106:43-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
6
|
Fatoki T, Chukwuejim S, Ibraheem O, Oke C, Ejimadu B, Olaoye I, Oyegbenro O, Salami T, Basorun R, Oluwadare O, Salawudeen Y. Harmine and 7,8-dihydroxyflavone synergistically suitable for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis management: An in silico study. RESEARCH RESULTS IN PHARMACOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3897/rrpharmacology.8.83332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurological disease characterized by progressive degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in paralysis and eventually leads to death from respiratory failure typically within 3 to 5 years of symptom onset. The aim of this work was to predict the pharmacokinetics and identify unique protein targets that are associated with potential anti-ALS phytochemicals and FDA-approved drugs, by in silico approaches.
Materials and methods: Standard computational tools (webserver and software) were used, and the methods used are clustering analysis, pharmacokinetics and molecular target predictions, and molecular docking simulation.
Results and discussion: The results show that riluzole, β-asarone, cryptotanshinone, harmine and 7,8-dihydroxyflavone have similar pharmacokinetics properties. Riluzole and harmine show 95% probability of target on norepinephrine transporter. Huperzine-A and cryptotanshinone show 100% probability of target on acetylcholinesterase. 7,8-dihydroxyflavone shows 35% probability of target on several carbonic anhydrases, 40% probability of target on CYP19A1, and 100% probability of target on inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B kinase beta subunit and neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor type 2, respectively. Harmine also shows 95% probability of target on dual specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinases, threonine-protein kinases (haspin and PIM3), adrenergic receptors, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK5 and CDK9), monoamine oxidase A, casein kinase I delta, serotonin receptors, dual specificity protein kinases (CLK1, CLK2, and CLK4), and nischarin, respectively. Also, the results of gene expression network show possible involvement of CDK1, CDK2, CDK4, ERK1, ERK2 and MAPK14 signaling pathways. This study shows that riluzole and harmine have closely similar physicochemical and pharmacokinetics properties as well as molecular targets, such as norepinephrine transporter (SLC6A2). Harmine, huperzine-A and cryptotanshinone could modulate acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is involved in ALS-pathogenesis. The impact of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone on several carbonic anhydrases (CA) I, II, VII, IX, XII, and XIV, as well as CYP19A1, could help in remediating the respiratory failure associated with ALS.
Conclusion: Overall, harmine is found to be superior to riluzole, and the combination of harmine with 7,8-dihydroxyflavone can provide more effective treatment for ALS than the current regime. Further work is needed to validate the predicted therapeutic targets of harmine identified in this study on ALS model or clinical trials, using in silico, in vitro and in vivo techniques.
Graphical abstract:
Collapse
|
7
|
Ngarka L, Siewe Fodjo JN, Aly E, Masocha W, Njamnshi AK. The Interplay Between Neuroinfections, the Immune System and Neurological Disorders: A Focus on Africa. Front Immunol 2022; 12:803475. [PMID: 35095888 PMCID: PMC8792387 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.803475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders related to neuroinfections are highly prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), constituting a major cause of disability and economic burden for patients and society. These include epilepsy, dementia, motor neuron diseases, headache disorders, sleep disorders, and peripheral neuropathy. The highest prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is in SSA. Consequently, there is a high prevalence of neurological disorders associated with HIV infection such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, motor disorders, chronic headaches, and peripheral neuropathy in the region. The pathogenesis of these neurological disorders involves the direct role of the virus, some antiretroviral treatments, and the dysregulated immune system. Furthermore, the high prevalence of epilepsy in SSA (mainly due to perinatal causes) is exacerbated by infections such as toxoplasmosis, neurocysticercosis, onchocerciasis, malaria, bacterial meningitis, tuberculosis, and the immune reactions they elicit. Sleep disorders are another common problem in the region and have been associated with infectious diseases such as human African trypanosomiasis and HIV and involve the activation of the immune system. While most headache disorders are due to benign primary headaches, some secondary headaches are caused by infections (meningitis, encephalitis, brain abscess). HIV and neurosyphilis, both common in SSA, can trigger long-standing immune activation in the central nervous system (CNS) potentially resulting in dementia. Despite the progress achieved in preventing diseases from the poliovirus and retroviruses, these microbes may cause motor neuron diseases in SSA. The immune mechanisms involved in these neurological disorders include increased cytokine levels, immune cells infiltration into the CNS, and autoantibodies. This review focuses on the major neurological disorders relevant to Africa and neuroinfections highly prevalent in SSA, describes the interplay between neuroinfections, immune system, neuroinflammation, and neurological disorders, and how understanding this can be exploited for the development of novel diagnostics and therapeutics for improved patient care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Ngarka
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Neuroscience Lab, Faculty of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, The University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Neurology, Yaoundé Central Hospital, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Joseph Nelson Siewe Fodjo
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Esraa Aly
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
| | - Willias Masocha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
| | - Alfred K. Njamnshi
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Neuroscience Lab, Faculty of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, The University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Neurology, Yaoundé Central Hospital, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Turalde CWR, Espiritu AI, Jamora RDG. Associations of motor neuron disease research productivity and socioeconomic factors in Southeast Asia: a bibliometric analysis. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2021; 79:1002-1011. [PMID: 34816988 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x-anp-2019-0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scientific productivity on motor neuron disease (MND) research has been hypothesized to be low in Southeast Asia (SEA). OBJECTIVE To investigate the scientific productivity of SEA countries on MND and the associations between research metric indices and various country-specific socioeconomic parameters. METHODS We searched electronic databases for relevant articles from SEA on MND from the earliest indexed record to June 30, 2020. We obtained the following research productivity indices: bibliometric (number of publications in journals with impact factor (IF) and Scopus citations) and altmetric indices (PlumX metrics). We also collected data from published literature and reliable sources on the following socioeconomic variables: population, gross domestic product (GDP), GDP per capita, %GDP allocated for research and development (R&D) and the number of neurologists per country. RESULTS We included 196 articles that satisfied our inclusion criteria. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis studies comprised the majority of the articles (n = 112; 57.1%). The top three countries in terms of the numbers of publications in journals with IF and in PlumX metrics were Singapore (n = 129), Malaysia (n = 26), and Thailand (n = 18). GDP per capita, %GDP for R&D and number of neurologists per one million population had strong positive correlations with the bibliometric and altmetric indices. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights that although the scientific productivity of MND research in SEA has been low, it is continuously growing. This also emphasizes the imperative to improve economic indices and the number of neurologists in SEA to enhance scientific output on MND.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Wilson Rosales Turalde
- University of the Philippines Manila, College of Medicine - Philippine General Hospital, Department of Neurosciences, Manila, Philippines
| | - Adrian Isidoro Espiritu
- University of the Philippines Manila, College of Medicine - Philippine General Hospital, Department of Neurosciences, Manila, Philippines.,University of the Philippines Manila, College of Medicine, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Manila, Philippines
| | - Roland Dominic Go Jamora
- University of the Philippines Manila, College of Medicine - Philippine General Hospital, Department of Neurosciences, Manila, Philippines.,St. Luke's Medical Center, Institute for Neurosciences, Quezon City & Global City, Philippines
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mbiydzenyuy NE, Pieme CA, Brown RE, Nguemeni C. Neuroscience education and research in Cameroon: Current status and future direction. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2021; 10:216-224. [PMID: 34179870 PMCID: PMC8211920 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2021.02.006] [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: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders comprise 20% of hospital admissions in Cameroon. The burden of neurological disorders is increasing, especially in children and the elderly. However, there are very few neurologists, psychiatrists, gerontologists and neuropsychologists trained in the treatment of neurological disorders in Cameroon and there are very few facilities for training in basic and clinical neuroscience. Although non-governmental organizations such as the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), International Society of Neurochemistry (ISN), and Teaching and Research in Natural Sciences for Development (TReND) in Africa have stepped in to provide short training courses and workshops in neuroscience, these are neither sufficient to train African neuroscientists nor to build the capacity to train neuroscience researchers and clinicians. There has also been little support from universities and the government for such training. While some participants of these schools have managed to form collaborations with foreign researchers and have been invited to study abroad, this does not facilitate the training of neuroscientists in Cameroon. Moreover, the research infrastructure for training in neuroscience remains limited. This is reflected in the low research output from Cameroonian universities in the field. In this review, we describe the burden of neurological disorders in Cameroon and outline the outstanding efforts of local scientists to develop the discipline of neuroscience, which is still an emerging field in Cameroon. We identify key actionable steps towards the improvement of the scientific capacity in neuroscience in Cameroon: (1) develop targeted neuroscience training programs in all major universities in Cameroon; (2) implement a thriving scientific environment supported by international collaborations; (3) focus on the leadership and the mentorship of both local and senior neuroscientists; (4) develop public awareness and information of policy makers to increase governmental funding for neuroscience research. Improving scientific capacity to tackle the neurological diseases burden in Cameroon is urgent. Neuroscience schools and advocated researchers shape the future of neuroscience in Cameroon. Public-private partnerships are required for sustainable country impact of neuroscience schools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ngala Elvis Mbiydzenyuy
- Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
| | | | - Richard E Brown
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Carine Nguemeni
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mohamed AA. Can Proprioceptive Training Reduce Muscle Fatigue in Patients With Motor Neuron Diseases? A New Direction of Treatment. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1243. [PMID: 31632290 PMCID: PMC6779805 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle fatigue is a serious problem in patients with motor neuron diseases (MNDs). It commonly disturbs both daily life activity and rehabilitation tolerance. A particular concern should be taken when MNDs occur in older ages. Older patients with MNDs usually have a worse clinical presentation and a lower survival rate. This could increase the occurrence of muscle fatigue. Muscle fatigue occurs due to a dysfunction in either motor or sensory systems. Current exercise interventions performed to decrease the occurrence of muscle fatigue focused only on treating motor causes of muscle fatigue. It has been demonstrated that these interventions have a high debate in their effectiveness on decreasing the occurrence of muscle fatigue. Also, these exercise interventions ignored training the affected sensory part of muscle fatigue, however, the important role of the sensory system in driving the motor system. Thus, this review aimed to develop a novel exercise intervention by using proprioceptive training as an intervention to decrease the occurrence of muscle fatigue in patients with MNDs particularly, older ones. The physiological effects of proprioceptive training to decrease the occurrence of muscle fatigue could include two effects. The first effect includes the ability of the proprioceptive training to increase the sensitivity of muscle spindles as an attempt to normalize the firing rate of α-motoneurons, which their abnormalities have major roles in the occurrence of muscle fatigue. The second effect includes its ability to correct the abnormal movement-compensations, which develop due to the biomechanical constraints imposed on patients with MNDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman A. Mohamed
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, School of Health Sciences, Istanbul Gelisim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ghansah A, Kamau E, Amambua-Ngwa A, Ishengoma DS, Maiga-Ascofare O, Amenga-Etego L, Deme A, Yavo W, Randrianarivelojosia M, Ochola-Oyier LI, Helegbe GK, Bailey J, Alifrangis M, Djimde A. Targeted Next Generation Sequencing for malaria research in Africa: current status and outlook. Malar J 2019; 18:324. [PMID: 31547818 PMCID: PMC6757370 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-2944-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted Next Generation Sequencing (TNGS) is an efficient and economical Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platform and the preferred choice when specific genomic regions are of interest. So far, only institutions located in middle and high-income countries have developed and implemented the technology, however, the efficiency and cost savings, as opposed to more traditional sequencing methodologies (e.g. Sanger sequencing) make the approach potentially well suited for resource-constrained regions as well. In April 2018, scientists from the Plasmodium Diversity Network Africa (PDNA) and collaborators met during the 7th Pan African Multilateral Initiative of Malaria (MIM) conference held in Dakar, Senegal to explore the feasibility of applying TNGS to genetic studies and malaria surveillance in Africa. The group of scientists reviewed the current experience with TNGS platforms in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and identified potential roles the technology might play to accelerate malaria research, scientific discoveries and improved public health in SSA. Research funding, infrastructure and human resources were highlighted as challenges that will have to be mitigated to enable African scientists to drive the implementation of TNGS in SSA. Current roles of important stakeholders and strategies to strengthen existing networks to effectively harness this powerful technology for malaria research of public health importance were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Ghansah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 581, Legon, Ghana
| | - Edwin Kamau
- Department of Emerging and Infectious Diseases (DEID), United States Army Medical Research Directorate -Africa (USAMR D-A), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu, Kenya.,U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Alfred Amambua-Ngwa
- Parasite Molecular Biology, Disease Control and Elimination, Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, Atlantic Road Fajara, Banjul, The Gambia
| | | | | | - Lucas Amenga-Etego
- West Africa Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Awa Deme
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Senegal
| | - William Yavo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Fe ́lix Houphoue ̈t-Boigny University, BPV 34, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.,Malaria Research and Control Centre, National Institute of Public Health, BPV 47, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | | | | | | | - Gideon Kofi Helegbe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University for Development Studies, P. O. Box TL1883, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana
| | - Jeffery Bailey
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, 55 Claverick St, Rm 314B, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Michael Alifrangis
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Abdoulaye Djimde
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali. .,Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mochan A. HIV related motor neuron disease/syndrome: The - potentially treatable - retroviral link in ALS? J Neurol Sci 2019; 397:75-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
13
|
Luna J, Diagana M, Ait Aissa L, Tazir M, Ali Pacha L, Kacem I, Gouider R, Henning F, Basse A, Cisse O, Balogou AAK, Kombate D, Agbetou M, Houinato D, Millogo A, Agba T, Belo M, Penoty M, Raymondeau-Moustafa M, Hamidou B, Couratier P, Preux PM, Marin B. Clinical features and prognosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Africa: the TROPALS study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2019; 90:20-29. [PMID: 30242088 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2018-318469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We describe and compare the sociodemographic and clinical features, treatments, and prognoses and survival times of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in Africa. METHODOLOGY We conducted a multicentre, hospital-based cohort study in Africa. Patients with ALS diagnosed in the neurology departments of participating hospitals from 2005 to 2017 were included. Subgroup analysis was performed by subcontinent. Survival analyses were conducted using the Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS Nine centres from eight African countries participated. A total of 185 patients with ALS were included: 114 from Northern Africa, 41 from Western Africa and 30 from Southern Africa. A male predominance (male to female ratio 2.9) was evident. The median age at onset was 53.0 years (IQR 44.5-64.0 years). The onset was bulbar in 22.7%. Only 47 patients (26.3%) received riluzole, mainly in Northern and Western Africa. The median survival from the time of diagnosis was 14.0 months (95% CI 10.7 to 17.2 months). The median survival was longer in Northern Africa (19.0 months, 95% CI 10.8 to 27.2 months) than in Western (4.0 months, 95% CI 0.8 to 7.1 months) and Southern (11.0 months, 95% CI 5.6 to 16.4 months) Africa (Breslow test, p<0.0001). Both subcontinental location and riluzole treatment independently affected survival. CONCLUSION More African patients with ALS were male and younger and exhibited a lower proportion of bulbar onset compared with patients with ALS from Western nations. Survival was consistent with that in Western registers but far shorter than what would be expected for young patients with ALS. The research improves our understanding of the disease in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Luna
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Mouhamadou Diagana
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,Département de Neurologie, CHU de Nouakchott, Nouakchott, Mauritania
| | - Leila Ait Aissa
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Neurosciences, Service de Neurologie, CHU Mustapha, Sidi M'Hamed, Algeria
| | - Meriem Tazir
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Neurosciences, Service de Neurologie, CHU Mustapha, Sidi M'Hamed, Algeria
| | - Lamia Ali Pacha
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Neurosciences, Service de Neurologie, CHU Mustapha, Sidi M'Hamed, Algeria
| | - Imen Kacem
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis el Manar, La Manouba, Tunisia.,Department of Neurology, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Riadh Gouider
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis el Manar, La Manouba, Tunisia.,Department of Neurology, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Franclo Henning
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Anna Basse
- Département de Neurologie, CHNU Fann, UCAD, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ousmane Cisse
- Département de Neurologie, CHNU Fann, UCAD, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Damelan Kombate
- Département de Neurologie, CHU Campus Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
| | - Mendinatou Agbetou
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Laboratory of Chronic and Neurologic Diseases Epidemiology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin.,Neurology Unit, CNHU Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Dismand Houinato
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Laboratory of Chronic and Neurologic Diseases Epidemiology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin.,Neurology Unit, CNHU Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Athanase Millogo
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,Département de Neurologie, CHU Sourô Sanou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,University of Ouagadougou, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Marie Penoty
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Service de Neurologie, Centre Expert SLA, Limoges, France
| | - Marie Raymondeau-Moustafa
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Centre d'Epidémiologie de Biostatistique et de Méthodologie de la Recherche, Limoges, France
| | - Bello Hamidou
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Philippe Couratier
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Service de Neurologie, Centre Expert SLA, Limoges, France
| | - Pierre Marie Preux
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Centre d'Epidémiologie de Biostatistique et de Méthodologie de la Recherche, Limoges, France
| | - Benoit Marin
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France .,UMR_S 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, University of Limoges, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Centre d'Epidémiologie de Biostatistique et de Méthodologie de la Recherche, Limoges, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
A comparative study of motor neuron disease in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients. J Neurol Sci 2018; 397:96-102. [PMID: 30597421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study is a descriptive review of the clinical and treatment outcome differences in HIV-infected patients with motor neuron syndrome (MNS) and HIV-uninfected patients with motor neuron disease (MND). METHODS A retrospective analysis of patients with MND/S was performed at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital (IALCH), Durban, South Africa between 2003 and 2017. RESULTS One hundred and thirty six patients were included in the study, 101 (76%) were HIV-uninfected and 35 (26%) were HIV-infected. Ninety four percent of the HIV-infected cohort were <50 years, median 41, IQR (33-45), p < 0.001, had median ALS functional rating scale revised (ALSFRS-R) score of 28, IQR [24-30] and 40% of these patients on anti-retroviral therapy (ART) survived longer than 10 years. Ninety one percent of the HIV-uninfected cohort were >50 years, median 66, IQR(57-74), P < 0.001, had median ALSFRS-R score of 44 (IQR 42-45) and 93% died within 5 years of their illness. CONCLUSION HIV-infected MNS patients were younger, had more severe disease at presentation and survived longer if treated with ART with possible reversal of the disease process, compared to patients with MND.
Collapse
|
15
|
Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Mental and Neurological Disorders in Ghana. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:8590381. [PMID: 30671131 PMCID: PMC6317105 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8590381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological Relevance Mental and neurological disorders are a serious public health challenge globally, particularly in developing countries where cultural factors and limited access to standard healthcare have led to a reliance on traditional medicines. However, ethnopharmacological characterization of traditional medicines used to treat these diseases is lacking. In this study, an ethnobotanical description of plant species used in treating mental and neurological disorders in Ghana and an update of their experimentally validated pharmacological relevance are provided. Materials and Methods Two hundred herbalists agreed to participate but sixty-six specialized in treating mental and neurological disorders were interviewed on their traditional medical practice. Literature review was conducted to verify the experimentally validated pharmacological importance of the reported plants. Results Thirty-two plant species belonging to twenty-eight families were identified. Most plant species had either analgesic (50%), anxiolytic (18.8%), or anticonvulsant (15.6%) properties. Others had reported sedative, anti-Alzheimer's disease, motor coordination, antipsychotic, antidepressant, cognitive enhancement, and neuroprotective properties. While Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) and Ocimum gratissimum L. (Lamiaceae) were the most commonly mentioned species with analgesic properties, Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) was the most-reported anxiolytic product, with Cymbopogon citratus DC. (Gramineae), Mangifera indica L., Tetrapleura tetraptera Schum Taub. (Fabaceae), and Persea Americana Mill (Lauraceae) being the most studied anticonvulsants. Conclusions This study provides the first report specifically on medicinal plants used in treating mental and neurological disorders in Ghana. Most of the identified plants have been scientifically confirmed to possess neuro- and psychopharmacological properties and may serve as templates for drug development.
Collapse
|
16
|
Balogun WG, Cobham AE, Amin A. Neuroscience in Nigeria: the past, the present and the future. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:359-368. [PMID: 28993966 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0119-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The science of the brain and nervous system cuts across almost all aspects of human life and is one of the fastest growing scientific fields worldwide. This necessitates the demand for pragmatic investment by all nations to ensure improved education and quality of research in Neurosciences. Although obvious efforts are being made in advancing the field in developed societies, there is limited data addressing the state of neuroscience in sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we review the state of neuroscience development in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country and its largest economy, critically evaluating the history, the current situation and future projections. This review specifically addresses trends in clinical and basic neuroscience research and education. We conclude by highlighting potentially helpful strategies that will catalyse development in neuroscience education and research in Nigeria, among which are an increase in research funding, provision of tools and equipment for training and research, and upgrading of the infrastructure at hand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wasiu Gbolahan Balogun
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200, Bertam, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Ansa Emmanuel Cobham
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Abdulbasit Amin
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua. da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Quansah E, McGregor NW. Towards diversity in genomics: The emergence of neurogenomics in Africa? Genomics 2018; 110:1-9. [PMID: 28774809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
There is a high burden of mental and neurological disorders in Africa. Nevertheless, there appears to be an under-representation of African ancestry populations in large-scale genomic studies. Here, we evaluated the extent of under-representation of Africans in neurogenomic studies in the GWAS Catalog. We found 569 neurogenomic studies, of which 88.9% were exclusively focused on people with European ancestry and the remaining 11.1% having African ancestry cases included. In terms of population, only 1.2% of the total populations involved in these 569 GWAS studies were of African descent. Further, most of the individuals in the African ancestry category were identified to be African-Americans/Afro-Caribbeans, highlighting the huge under-representation of homogenous African populations in large-scale neurogenomic studies. Efforts geared at establishing strong collaborative ties with European/American researchers, maintaining freely accessible biobanks and establishing comprehensive African genome data repositories to track African genome variations are critical for propelling neurogenomics/precision medicine in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Quansah
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK.
| | - Nathaniel W McGregor
- Department of Genetics, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa; Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg Medical Campus, Tygerberg, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vajda A, McLaughlin RL, Heverin M, Thorpe O, Abrahams S, Al-Chalabi A, Hardiman O. Genetic testing in ALS: A survey of current practices. Neurology 2017; 88:991-999. [PMID: 28159885 PMCID: PMC5333513 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000003686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the degree of consensus among clinicians on the clinical use of genetic testing in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the factors that determine decision-making. METHODS ALS researchers worldwide were invited to participate in a detailed online survey to determine their attitudes and practices relating to genetic testing. RESULTS Responses from 167 clinicians from 21 different countries were analyzed. The majority of respondents (73.3%) do not consider that there is a consensus definition of familial ALS (FALS). Fifty-seven percent consider a family history of frontotemporal dementia and 48.5% the presence of a known ALS genetic mutation as sufficient for a diagnosis of FALS. Most respondents (90.2%) offer genetic testing to patients they define as having FALS and 49.4% to patients with sporadic ALS. Four main genes (SOD1, C9orf72, TARDBP, and FUS) are commonly tested. A total of 55.2% of respondents would seek genetic testing if they had personally received a diagnosis of ALS. Forty-two percent never offer presymptomatic testing to family members of patients with FALS. Responses varied between ALS specialists and nonspecialists and based on the number of new patients seen per year. CONCLUSIONS There is a lack of consensus among clinicians as to the definition of FALS. Substantial variation exists in attitude and practices related to genetic testing of patients and presymptomatic testing of their relatives across geographic regions and between experienced specialists in ALS and nonspecialists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Vajda
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK.
| | - Russell L McLaughlin
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Mark Heverin
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Owen Thorpe
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Sharon Abrahams
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Orla Hardiman
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Quansah E, Karikari TK. Neuroscience-related research in Ghana: a systematic evaluation of direction and capacity. Metab Brain Dis 2016; 31:11-24. [PMID: 26344503 PMCID: PMC4718959 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-015-9724-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases account for considerable healthcare, economic and social burdens in Ghana. In order to effectively address these burdens, appropriately-trained scientists who conduct high-impact neuroscience research will be needed. Additionally, research directions should be aligned with national research priorities. However, to provide information about current neuroscience research productivity and direction, the existing capacity and focus need to be identified. This would allow opportunities for collaborative research and training to be properly explored and developmental interventions to be better targeted. In this study, we sought to evaluate the existing capacity and direction of neuroscience-related research in Ghana. To do this, we examined publications reporting research investigations authored by scientists affiliated with Ghanaian institutions in specific areas of neuroscience over the last two decades (1995-2015). 127 articles that met our inclusion criteria were systematically evaluated in terms of research foci, annual publication trends and author affiliations. The most actively-researched areas identified include neurocognitive impairments in non-nervous system disorders, depression and suicide, epilepsy and seizures, neurological impact of substance misuse, and neurological disorders. These studies were mostly hospital and community-based surveys. About 60% of these articles were published in the last seven years, suggesting a recent increase in research productivity. However, data on experimental and clinical research outcomes were particularly lacking. We suggest that future investigations should focus on the following specific areas where information was lacking: large-scale disease epidemiology, effectiveness of diagnostic platforms and therapeutic treatments, and the genetic, genomic and molecular bases of diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Quansah
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, LE1 9BH, UK.
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biological Science, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Thomas K Karikari
- Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Quansah E, Ohene LA, Norman L, Mireku MO, Karikari TK. Social Factors Influencing Child Health in Ghana. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0145401. [PMID: 26745277 PMCID: PMC4706365 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Social factors have profound effects on health. Children are especially vulnerable to social influences, particularly in their early years. Adverse social exposures in childhood can lead to chronic disorders later in life. Here, we sought to identify and evaluate the impact of social factors on child health in Ghana. As Ghana is unlikely to achieve the Millennium Development Goals’ target of reducing child mortality by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015, we deemed it necessary to identify social determinants that might have contributed to the non-realisation of this goal. Methods ScienceDirect, PubMed, MEDLINE via EBSCO and Google Scholar were searched for published articles reporting on the influence of social factors on child health in Ghana. After screening the 98 articles identified, 34 of them that met our inclusion criteria were selected for qualitative review. Results Major social factors influencing child health in the country include maternal education, rural-urban disparities (place of residence), family income (wealth/poverty) and high dependency (multiparousity). These factors are associated with child mortality, nutritional status of children, completion of immunisation programmes, health-seeking behaviour and hygiene practices. Conclusions Several social factors influence child health outcomes in Ghana. Developing more effective responses to these social determinants would require sustainable efforts from all stakeholders including the Government, healthcare providers and families. We recommend the development of interventions that would support families through direct social support initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and inequality, and indirect approaches targeted at eliminating the dependence of poor health outcomes on social factors. Importantly, the expansion of quality free education interventions to improve would-be-mother’s health knowledge is emphasised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Quansah
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biological Science, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (TKK); (EQ)
| | - Lilian Akorfa Ohene
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, United Kingdom
- Department of Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Linda Norman
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Michael Osei Mireku
- Département Méthodes Quantitatives en Santé Publique (METIS), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santeé Publique, Rennes, France
- Ecole Doctorale Pierre Louis de Santeé Publique, Universiteé Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC- Paris VI), Paris, France
- Meère et Enfant Face aux Infections Tropicales, Institut de Recherche pour le Deéveloppement (IRD), Paris, France
| | - Thomas K. Karikari
- Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, Uunited Kingdom
- Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (TKK); (EQ)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Karikari TK, Quansah E, Mohamed WM. Developing expertise in bioinformatics for biomedical research in Africa. Appl Transl Genom 2015; 6:31-34. [PMID: 26767162 PMCID: PMC4699396 DOI: 10.1016/j.atg.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Research in bioinformatics has a central role in helping to advance biomedical research. However, its introduction to Africa has been met with some challenges (such as inadequate infrastructure, training opportunities, research funding, human resources, biorepositories and databases) that have contributed to the slow pace of development in this field across the continent. Fortunately, recent improvements in areas such as research funding, infrastructural support and capacity building are helping to develop bioinformatics into an important discipline in Africa. These contributions are leading to the establishment of world-class research facilities, biorepositories, training programmes, scientific networks and funding schemes to improve studies into disease and health in Africa. With increased contribution from all stakeholders, these developments could be further enhanced. Here, we discuss how the recent developments are contributing to the advancement of bioinformatics in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K. Karikari
- Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Emmanuel Quansah
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biological Science, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Wael M.Y. Mohamed
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Menoufia Medical School, Menoufia University, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Karikari TK, Quansah E. Neurogenomics: Challenges and opportunities for Ghana. Appl Transl Genom 2015; 5:11-14. [PMID: 26751686 PMCID: PMC4691957 DOI: 10.1016/j.atg.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The application of genomic tools and technologies has shown the potential to help improve healthcare and our understanding of disease mechanisms. While genomic tools are increasingly being applied to research on infectious diseases, malaria and neglected tropical diseases in Africa, an area that has seen little application of genomic approaches on this continent is neuroscience. In this article, we examined the prospects of developing neurogenomics research and its clinical use in Ghana, one of the African countries actively involved in genomics research. We noted that established international research funding sources and foundations in genomic research such as H3ABioNet nodes established at a couple of research centres in Ghana provide excellent platforms for extending the usage of genomic tools and techniques to neuroscience-related research areas. However, existing challenges such as the (i) lack of degree programmes in neuroscience, genomics and bioinformatics; (ii) low availability of infrastructure and appropriately-trained scientists; and (iii) lack of local research funding opportunities, need to be addressed. To promote and safeguard the long-term sustainability of neurogenomics research in the country, the impact of the existing challenges and possible ways of addressing them have been discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K Karikari
- Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom; Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel Quansah
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biological Science, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana; Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester LE1 9BH, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Karikari TK, Aleksic J. Neurogenomics: An opportunity to integrate neuroscience, genomics and bioinformatics research in Africa. Appl Transl Genom 2015; 5:3-10. [PMID: 26937352 PMCID: PMC4745356 DOI: 10.1016/j.atg.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Modern genomic approaches have made enormous contributions to improving our understanding of the function, development and evolution of the nervous system, and the diversity within and between species. However, most of these research advances have been recorded in countries with advanced scientific resources and funding support systems. On the contrary, little is known about, for example, the possible interplay between different genes, non-coding elements and environmental factors in modulating neurological diseases among populations in low-income countries, including many African countries. The unique ancestry of African populations suggests that improved inclusion of these populations in neuroscience-related genomic studies would significantly help to identify novel factors that might shape the future of neuroscience research and neurological healthcare. This perspective is strongly supported by the recent identification that diseased individuals and their kindred from specific sub-Saharan African populations lack common neurological disease-associated genetic mutations. This indicates that there may be population-specific causes of neurological diseases, necessitating further investigations into the contribution of additional, presently-unknown genomic factors. Here, we discuss how the development of neurogenomics research in Africa would help to elucidate disease-related genomic variants, and also provide a good basis to develop more effective therapies. Furthermore, neurogenomics would harness African scientists' expertise in neuroscience, genomics and bioinformatics to extend our understanding of the neural basis of behaviour, development and evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K. Karikari
- Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
- Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Jelena Aleksic
- Wellcome Trust — Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QR, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|