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Song Y, Chen C, Xie Y, Sun T, Xu K, Li Y. Clinical and genetic findings in a Chinese cohort with choroideremia. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:459-466. [PMID: 35132212 PMCID: PMC9905080 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-01950-6] [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: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Choroideremia (CHM) is an X-linked chorioretinal dystrophy caused by variants in the CHM gene. The aim of this study was to report the clinical and genetic features of a cohort of affected males with CHM and establish the relationship between best correct visual acuity (BCVA) and age. METHOD Twenty-seven patients from 24 unrelated families underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations and comprehensive molecular genetic analysis. We combined the 27 patients in our own cohort with 68 Chinese patients from six previously reported studies to determine a transition age for BCVA rapid decline in 95 patients. RESULTS Twenty-three causal (9 novel) CHM variants were identified in the 27 patients, who had a mean age of 30.5 ± 17.4 years and a mean BCVA (LogMAR) of 0.61 ± 0.79. Patients at different disease stages showed different extents of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid abnormalities. Central retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanning revealed defects in the ellipsoid zone and RPE in all patients and outer retinal tubulations in 75%. The 95 patients had a mean age of 33.27 ± 16.27 years and an average (LogMAR) of 0.72 ± 0.82. The BCVA did not decline rapidly before age 25, but decreased at a mean rate of 0.037logMAR/year after that age. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated Chinese patients with CHM variants have a younger transition age for rapid BCVA decline than previously reported for other ethnic groups. Central retinal OCT scanning can identify different abnormalities in the retinal structures, and these might be used as other parameters for monitoring disease progression in patients with CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuning Song
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunjie Chen
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tengyang Sun
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Li
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Lab, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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2
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Karali M, Testa F, Di Iorio V, Torella A, Zeuli R, Scarpato M, Romano F, Onore ME, Pizzo M, Melillo P, Brunetti-Pierri R, Passerini I, Pelo E, Cremers FPM, Esposito G, Nigro V, Simonelli F, Banfi S. Genetic epidemiology of inherited retinal diseases in a large patient cohort followed at a single center in Italy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20815. [PMID: 36460718 PMCID: PMC9718770 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are the leading cause of vision loss in the working-age population. We performed a retrospective epidemiological study to determine the genetic basis of IRDs in a large Italian cohort (n = 2790) followed at a single referral center. We provided, mainly by next generation sequencing, potentially conclusive molecular diagnosis for 2036 patients (from 1683 unrelated families). We identified a total of 1319 causative sequence variations in 132 genes, including 353 novel variants, and 866 possibly actionable genotypes for therapeutic approaches. ABCA4 was the most frequently mutated gene (n = 535; 26.3% of solved cases), followed by USH2A (n = 228; 11.2%) and RPGR (n = 102; 5.01%). The other 129 genes had a lower contribution to IRD pathogenesis (e.g. CHM 3.5%, RHO 3.5%; MYO7A 3.4%; CRB1 2.7%; RPE65 2%, RP1 1.8%; GUCY2D 1.7%). Seventy-eight genes were mutated in five patients or less. Mitochondrial DNA variants were responsible for 2.1% of cases. Our analysis confirms the complex genetic etiology of IRDs and reveals the high prevalence of ABCA4 and USH2A mutations. This study also uncovers genetic associations with a spectrum of clinical subgroups and highlights a valuable number of cases potentially eligible for clinical trials and, ultimately, for molecular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianthi Karali
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy ,grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Testa
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Iorio
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annalaura Torella
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy ,grid.410439.b0000 0004 1758 1171Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Zeuli
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Scarpato
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Romano
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Onore
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Pizzo
- grid.410439.b0000 0004 1758 1171Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Paolo Melillo
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Brunetti-Pierri
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Passerini
- grid.24704.350000 0004 1759 9494Department of Genetic Diagnosis, Careggi Teaching Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Pelo
- grid.24704.350000 0004 1759 9494Department of Genetic Diagnosis, Careggi Teaching Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Frans P. M. Cremers
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriella Esposito
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XDepartment of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy ,CEINGE-Advanced Biotechnologies, Via G. Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Nigro
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy ,grid.410439.b0000 0004 1758 1171Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Eye Clinic, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro Banfi
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania ’Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Luigi De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy ,grid.410439.b0000 0004 1758 1171Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
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Fioretti T, Zanobio M, Raia M, Errichiello S, Izzo B, Cattaneo F, Ammendola R, Cevenini A, Esposito G. MiR-27a downregulates 14-3-3θ, RUNX1, AF4, and MLL-AF4, crucial drivers of blast transformation in t(4;11) leukemia cells. Cell Biochem Funct 2022; 40:706-717. [PMID: 35981137 PMCID: PMC9804920 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3736] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The chromosomal translocation t(4;11)(q21;q23), a hallmark of an aggressive form of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), encodes mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL)-AF4 oncogenic chimera that triggers aberrant transcription of genes involved in lymphocyte differentiation, including HOXA9 and MEIS1. The scaffold protein 14-3-3θ, which promotes the binding of MLL-AF4 to the HOXA9 promoter, is a target of MiR-27a, a tumor suppressor in different human leukemia cell types. We herein study the role of MiR-27a in the pathogenesis of t(4;11) ALL. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (qPCR) reveals that MiR-27a and 14-3-3θ expression is inversely correlated in t(4;11) ALL cell lines; interestingly, MiR-27a relative expression is significantly lower in patients affected by t(4;11) ALL than in patients affected by the less severe t(12;21) leukemia. In t(4;11) leukemia cells, ectopic expression of MiR-27a decreases protein level of 14-3-3θ and of the key transcription factor RUNX1. We show for the first time that MiR-27a also targets AF4 and MLL-AF4; in agreement, MiR-27a overexpression strongly reduces AF4 and MLL-AF4 protein levels in RS4;11 cells. Consequent to AF4 and MLL-AF4 downregulation, MiR-27a overexpression negatively affects transcription of HOXA9 and MEIS1 in different t(4;11) leukemia cell lines. In agreement, we show through chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments that MiR-27a overexpression impairs the binding of MLL-AF4 to the HOXA9 promoter. Lastly, we found that MiR-27a overexpression decreases viability, proliferation, and clonogenicity of t(4;11) cells, whereas it enhances their apoptotic rate. Overall, our study identifies the first microRNAthat strikes in one hit four crucial drivers of blast transformation in t(4;11) leukemia. Therefore, MiR-27a emerges as a new promising therapeutic target for this aggressive and poorly curable form of leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Fioretti
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly
| | - Mariateresa Zanobio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly,Precision MedicineUniversity of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Raia
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly
| | - Santa Errichiello
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly
| | - Barbara Izzo
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Fabio Cattaneo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Rosario Ammendola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Armando Cevenini
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | - Gabriella Esposito
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies Franco Salvatore s.c. a r.l.NaplesItaly,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of MedicineUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
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4
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Kim JH, Han JW, Choi EW, Bang JH, Shin HJ, Jang MA, Lee JY, Choi JN, Chang HS, Park TK. Clinical Manifestations and Genetic Analysis of 5 Korean Choroideremia Patients Initially Diagnosed With Retinitis Pigmentosa. J Korean Med Sci 2022; 37:e5. [PMID: 35040292 PMCID: PMC8763878 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2022.37.e5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the clinical findings of choroideremia patients and perform genetic analysis by whole-exome sequencing (WES). METHODS A total of 94 patients initially diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) at another hospital, and who visited our hospital for genetic analysis by WES, were included in the study, along with 64 family members. All subjects underwent comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation, including best-corrected visual acuity, slit lamp examination, fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), fluorescein angiography (FAG), visual field (VF), electroretinogram (ERG), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). RESULTS In six male patients with suspected choroideremia, extensive retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and severe loss of choroid were observed in the fundus, but not in the macula. CHM gene mutation was confirmed in five patients. A novel single nucleotide variant at a splice site was observed in one patient. OCT showed marked thinning of the outernuclear layer and choroid, except in the macula. FAF showed a small area of hyperfluorescence in the posterior pole. In addition, characteristic interlaminar bridges were observed in four patients. On FAG, hypofluorescence was seen up to the far-peripheral retina in five patients. CONCLUSION Of the 94 patients initially diagnosed with RP, CHM mutation was identified in five (5.3%) by WES. Choroideremia should be considered as a differential diagnosis of RP. WES would be useful for identifying the causes of hereditary retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ha Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Jung Woo Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Eun Woo Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Ji Hong Bang
- Hyangseol Medical Research Center, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
- Department of Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, Soonchunhyang University, Graduate School, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Shin
- Hyangseol Medical Research Center, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
- Department of Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, Soonchunhyang University, Graduate School, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Mi-Ae Jang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Jong-Young Lee
- Oneomics Institute, Soonchunhyang Mirai Medical Center, Bucheon, Korea
| | | | - Hun Soo Chang
- Hyangseol Medical Research Center, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
- Department of Anatomy and BK21 FOUR Project, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea.
| | - Tae Kwann Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, Korea
- Hyangseol Medical Research Center, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
- Laboratory for Translational Research on Retinal and Macular Degeneration, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Bucheon, Bucheon, Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
- Ex Lumina Therapeutics and Technologies, Bucheon, Korea.
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5
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Bilateral visual acuity decline in males with choroideremia: a pooled, cross-sectional meta-analysis. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:29. [PMID: 35034620 PMCID: PMC8762852 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02250-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choroideremia is a rare inherited retinal disease that leads to blindness. Visual acuity (VA) is a key outcome measure in choroideremia treatment studies, but VA decline rates change with age. An accurate understanding of the natural deterioration of VA in choroideremia is important to assess the treatment effect of new therapies in which VA is the primary outcome measure. We conducted a meta-analysis of data on individuals with choroideremia to determine the rate of VA deterioration between the better- and worse-seeing eye (BSE and WSE, respectively). METHODS Data were collected from the prospective Natural History of the Progression of Choroideremia (NIGHT) study (613 eyes, baseline data only), studies included in a recent meta-analysis, and studies identified in a targeted literature search performed on March 25, 2020, including individual best-corrected VA (BCVA) and age data in male individuals with choroideremia. Best-corrected VA decline rates (measured by logMAR units) by age and trends in BCVA decline rates in the BSE and WSE were evaluated. RESULTS: Data from 1037 males (1602 eyes; mean age, 41.8 years) were included. Before and after an age cutoff of 33.8 years, BCVA decline rates for the WSE were 0.0086 and 0.0219 logMAR per year, respectively. Before and after an age cutoff of 39.1 years, BCVA decline rates for the BSE were 0.00001 and 0.0203 logMAR per year, respectively. Differences in absolute BCVA and decline rates increased between the 2 eyes until age ~ 40; thereafter, differences in absolute BCVA and decline rates were similar between eyes. CONCLUSIONS Using the largest choroideremia data set to date, this analysis demonstrates accelerated BCVA decline beginning between 30 and 40 years of age. Disparate interocular progression rates were observed before the transition age, with similar interocular progression rates after the transition age.
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6
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Nuzbrokh Y, Ragi SD, Tsang SH. Gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1278. [PMID: 34532415 PMCID: PMC8421966 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a genetically variable collection of devastating disorders that lead to significant visual impairment. Advances in genetic characterization over the past two decades have allowed identification of over 260 causative mutations associated with inherited retinal disorders. Thought to be incurable, gene supplementation therapy offers great promise in treating various forms of these blinding conditions. In gene replacement therapy, a disease-causing gene is replaced with a functional copy of the gene. These therapies are designed to slow disease progression and hopefully restore visual function. Gene therapies are typically delivered to target retinal cells by subretinal (SR) or intravitreal (IVT) injection. The historic Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of voretigene neparvovec for RPE65-associated Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA) spurred tremendous optimism surrounding retinal gene therapy for various other monogenic IRDs. Novel disease-causing mutations continue to be discovered annually, and targeted genetic therapy is now under development in clinical and preclinical models for many IRDs. Numerous clinical trials for other IRDs are ongoing or have recently completed. Disorders being targeted for genetic therapy include retinitis pigmentosa (RP), choroideremia (CHM), achromatopsia (ACHM), Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, usher syndrome (USH), X-linked retinoschisis, and Stargardt disease. Here, we provide an update of completed, ongoing, and planned clinical trials using gene supplementation strategies for retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Nuzbrokh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA.,Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sara D Ragi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jonas Children's Vision Care, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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7
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Fry LE, Patrício MI, Jolly JK, Xue K, MacLaren RE. Expression of Rab Prenylation Pathway Genes and Relation to Disease Progression in Choroideremia. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2021; 10:12. [PMID: 34254989 PMCID: PMC8287038 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.10.8.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Choroideremia results from the deficiency of Rab Escort Protein 1 (REP1), encoded by CHM, involved in the prenylation of Rab GTPases. Here, we investigate whether the transcription and expression of other genes involved in the prenylation of Rab proteins correlates with disease progression in a cohort of patients with choroideremia. Methods Rates of retinal pigment epithelial area loss in 41 patients with choroideremia were measured using fundus autofluorescence imaging for up to 4 years. From lysates of cultured skin fibroblasts donated by patients (n = 15) and controls (n = 14), CHM, CHML, RABGGTB and RAB27A mRNA expression, and REP1 and REP2 protein expression were compared. Results The central autofluorescent island area loss in patients with choroideremia occurred with a mean half-life of 5.89 years (95% confidence interval [CI] = 5.09-6.70), with some patients demonstrating relatively fast or slow rates of progression (range = 3.3-14.1 years). Expression of CHM mRNA and REP1 protein were significantly decreased in all patients. No difference in expression of CHML, RABGGTB, RAB27A, or REP2 was seen between patients and controls. No correlation was seen between expression of the genes analyzed and rates of retinal degeneration. Non-sense induced transcriptional compensation of CHML, a CHM-like retrogene, was not observed in patients with CHM variants predicted to undergo non-sense mediated decay. Conclusions Patients with choroideremia, who are deficient for REP1, show normal levels of expression of other genes involved in Rab prenylation, which do not appear to play any modifying role in the rate of disease progression. Translational Relevance There remains little evidence for selection of patients for choroideremia gene therapy based on genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis E Fry
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria I Patrício
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Jasleen K Jolly
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Kanmin Xue
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert E MacLaren
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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8
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Molecular Characterization of Choroideremia-Associated Deletions Reveals an Unexpected Regulation of CHM Gene Transcription. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081111. [PMID: 34440285 PMCID: PMC8392058 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081111] [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: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Choroideremia (CHM) is a X-linked recessive chorioretinal dystrophy due to deficiency of the CHM gene product, i.e., Rab escort protein isoform 1 (REP1). To date, gene therapy for CHM has shown variable effectiveness, likely because the underlying pathogenic mechanisms as well as genotype-phenotype correlation are not yet fully known. Small nucleotide variants leading to premature termination codons (PTCs) are a major cause of CHM, but about 20% of patients has CHM gene deletions. To improve understanding of the disease mechanisms, we analyzed molecular features of seven deletions involving the CHM gene sequence. We mapped the deletion breakpoints by using polymerase chain reaction, sequencing and array comparative genomic hybridization; to identify rearrangement-promoting DNA sequences, we analyzed genomic architecture surrounding the breakpoint regions. Moreover, in some CHM patients with different mutation types, we measured transcript level of CHM and of CHML, encoding the REP2 isoform. Scattered along the whole CHM gene and in close proximity to the deletion breakpoints we found numerous repeat elements that generate a locus-specific rearrangement hot spot. Unexpectedly, patients with non-PTC variants had increased expression of the aberrant CHM mRNA; CHML expression was higher than normal in a patient lacking CHM and its putative regulatory sequences. This latest evidence suggests that mechanisms regulating CHM and CHML gene expression are worthy of further study, because their full knowledge could be also useful for developing effective therapies for this hitherto untreatable inherited retinal degeneration.
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9
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Wynne N, Carroll J, Duncan JL. Promises and pitfalls of evaluating photoreceptor-based retinal disease with adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO). Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 83:100920. [PMID: 33161127 PMCID: PMC8639282 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2020.100920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) allows visualization of the living human retina with exquisite single-cell resolution. This technology has improved our understanding of normal retinal structure and revealed pathophysiological details of a number of retinal diseases. Despite the remarkable capabilities of AOSLO, it has not seen the widespread commercial adoption and mainstream clinical success of other modalities developed in a similar time frame. Nevertheless, continued advancements in AOSLO hardware and software have expanded use to a broader range of patients. Current devices enable imaging of a number of different retinal cell types, with recent improvements in stimulus and detection schemes enabling monitoring of retinal function, microscopic structural changes, and even subcellular activity. This has positioned AOSLO for use in clinical trials, primarily as exploratory outcome measures or biomarkers that can be used to monitor disease progression or therapeutic response. AOSLO metrics could facilitate patient selection for such trials, to refine inclusion criteria or to guide the choice of therapy, depending on the presence, absence, or functional viability of specific cell types. Here we explore the potential of AOSLO retinal imaging by reviewing clinical applications as well as some of the pitfalls and barriers to more widespread clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Wynne
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Joseph Carroll
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jacque L Duncan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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10
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Iovino C, Di Iorio V, Testa F, Bombace V, Melillo P, Vupparaboina KK, Chhablani J, Simonelli F. Choroidal Vascularity Features in Patients with Choroideremia and Cystoid Spaces. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030382. [PMID: 33668232 PMCID: PMC7996232 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystoid spaces (CSs) are a common retinal finding in choroideremia (CHM) patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the vascular features of the choroid associated with the presence of CSs in patients with confirmed genetic diagnosis of CHM. A total of 33 patients (33 eyes) were enrolled in this retrospective cross-sectional study and divided into two groups based on the presence (17 eyes) or absence (16 eyes) of CSs. Choroidal features were evaluated on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography including subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT), total choroidal area (TCA), luminal choroidal area (LCA), and stromal choroidal area (SCA). The choroidal vascularity index (CVI) was then calculated in all study eyes. All structural choroidal parameters were calculated both on the entire length of the B-scan and in the central subfoveal 1500 μm. The average age was 37.3 ± 11.6 and 31.4 ± 16.7 years (p = 0.25) and mean logMAR best-corrected visual acuity was 0.11 ± 0.20 and 0.20 ± 0.57 (p = 0.54) in the CHM groups with and without CSs, respectively. There were no significant differences in subfoveal CT, and TCA, LCA, SCA, and CVI evaluated on either the entire scan or in the central 1500 μm (all p > 0.05). All choroidal vasculature parameters exhibited no significant differences between CHM eyes with and without CSs. Our results suggest that the choroid may not be involved in the development of CSs in patients with CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Iovino
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Valentina Di Iorio
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Francesco Testa
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Viviana Bombace
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Paolo Melillo
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Kiran Kumar Vupparaboina
- Smt. Kanuri Santhamma Centre for Vitreo-Retinal Diseases, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad 500034, India;
| | - Jay Chhablani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Francesca Simonelli
- Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.I.); (V.D.I.); (F.T.); (V.B.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-7704501
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11
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Hayashi T, Kameya S, Mizobuchi K, Kubota D, Kikuchi S, Yoshitake K, Mizota A, Murakami A, Iwata T, Nakano T. Genetic defects of CHM and visual acuity outcome in 24 choroideremia patients from 16 Japanese families. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15883. [PMID: 32985515 PMCID: PMC7522719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72623-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Choroideremia (CHM) is an incurable progressive chorioretinal dystrophy. Little is known about the natural disease course of visual acuity in the Japanese population. We aimed to investigate the genetic spectrum of the CHM gene and visual acuity outcomes in 24 CHM patients from 16 Japanese families. We measured decimal best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at presentation and follow-up, converted to logMAR units for statistical analysis. Sanger and/or whole-exome sequencing were performed to identify pathogenic CHM variants/deletions. The median age at presentation was 37.0 years (range, 5–76 years). The mean follow-up interval was 8.2 years. BCVA of the better-seeing eye at presentation was significantly worsened with increasing age (r = 0.515, p < 0.01), with a high rate of BCVA decline in patients > 40 years old. A Kaplan–Meier survival curve suggested that a BCVA of Snellen equivalent 20/40 at follow-up remains until the fifties. Fourteen pathogenic variants, 6 of which were novel [c.49 + 5G > A, c.116 + 5G > A, p.(Gly176Glu, Glu177Ter), p.Tyr531Ter, an exon 2 deletion, and a 5.0-Mb deletion], were identified in 15 families. No variant was found in one family only. Our BCVA outcome data are useful for predicting visual prognosis and determining the timing of intervention in Japanese patients with CHM variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takaaki Hayashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Katsushika Medical Center, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 6-41-2 Aoto, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8506, Japan. .,Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Shuhei Kameya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kei Mizobuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daiki Kubota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sachiko Kikuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Chiba Hokusoh Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Yoshitake
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Mizota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Murakami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University, Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwata
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Nakano
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Fioretti T, Ungari S, Savarese M, Cattaneo F, Pirozzi E, Esposito G. A putative frameshift variant in the CHM gene is associated with an unexpected splicing alteration in a choroideremia patient. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2020; 8:e1490. [PMID: 32949230 PMCID: PMC7667377 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the limited availability of mRNA analysis data, the number of exonic variants resulting in splicing impairment is underestimated although aberrant splicing correction is a promising therapeutic option to treat monogenic diseases, including choroideremia (CHM), a rare X‐linked eye disorder arising from sequence alteration of the CHM gene. Herein we report an exonic frameshift variant associated with an mRNA splicing alteration that leads to a CHM hypomorphic allele. Methods Total RNA and genomic DNA were extracted from peripheral blood of a patient affected by a mild form of CHM. The CHM gene was analyzed by PCR‐based methods and Sanger sequencing. Results Besides the known c.1335dup frameshift variant, mRNA analysis revealed a splicing alteration that restored the reading frame of the mutant transcript, likely leading to an aberrant protein with residual activity. Bioinformatic analyses identified novel putative exonic splicing enhancer elements and provided clues that also pre‐mRNA secondary structure should be taken into account when exploring splicing mechanisms. Conclusion A careful molecular characterization of the c.1335dup variant's effect explains the relationship between genotype and phenotype severity in a CHM patient and provides new perspectives for the study of therapeutic strategies based on splicing correction in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvana Ungari
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Sanità Pubblica e Pediatriche, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Cattaneo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Pirozzi
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Gabriella Esposito
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies, Naples, Italy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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13
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Ku CA, Pennesi ME. The new landscape of retinal gene therapy. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 184:846-859. [PMID: 32888388 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Novel therapeutics for inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) have rapidly evolved since groundbreaking clinical trials for LCA due to RPE65 mutations led to the first FDA-approved in vivo gene therapy. Since then, advancements in viral vectors have led to more efficient AAV transduction and developed other viral vectors for gene augmentation therapy of large gene targets. Furthermore, significant developments in gene editing and RNA modulation technologies have introduced novel capabilities for treatment of autosomal dominant diseases, intronic mutations, and/or large genes otherwise unable to be treated with current viral vectors. We highlight strategies currently being evaluated in gene therapy clinical trials and promising preclinical developments for IRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristy A Ku
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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14
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Garafalo AV, Cideciyan AV, Héon E, Sheplock R, Pearson A, WeiYang Yu C, Sumaroka A, Aguirre GD, Jacobson SG. Progress in treating inherited retinal diseases: Early subretinal gene therapy clinical trials and candidates for future initiatives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2020; 77:100827. [PMID: 31899291 PMCID: PMC8714059 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to improved phenotyping and genetic characterization, the field of 'incurable' and 'blinding' inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) has moved substantially forward. Decades of ascertainment of IRD patient data from Philadelphia and Toronto centers illustrate the progress from Mendelian genetic types to molecular diagnoses. Molecular genetics have been used not only to clarify diagnoses and to direct counseling but also to enable the first clinical trials of gene-based treatment in these diseases. An overview of the recent reports of gene augmentation clinical trials by subretinal injections is used to reflect on the reasons why there has been limited success in this early venture into therapy. These first-in human experiences have taught that there is a need for advancing the techniques of delivery of the gene products - not only for refining further subretinal trials, but also for evaluating intravitreal delivery. Candidate IRDs for intravitreal gene delivery are then suggested to illustrate some of the disorders that may be amenable to improvement of remaining central vision with the least photoreceptor trauma. A more detailed understanding of the human IRDs to be considered for therapy and the calculated potential for efficacy should be among the routine prerequisites for initiating a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra V Garafalo
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Artur V Cideciyan
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Elise Héon
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca Sheplock
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Alexander Pearson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caberry WeiYang Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Sumaroka
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Gustavo D Aguirre
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences & Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Samuel G Jacobson
- Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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15
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Shen LL, Ahluwalia A, Sun M, Young BK, Grossetta Nardini HK, Del Priore LV. Long-term natural history of visual acuity in eyes with choroideremia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 1004 individual eyes. Br J Ophthalmol 2020; 105:271-278. [PMID: 32471821 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-316028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) is the most common primary endpoint in treatment trials for choroideremia (CHM) but the long-term natural history of BCVA is unclear. METHODS We searched in seven databases to identify studies that reported BCVA of untreated eyes with CHM. We sought individual-level data and performed segmented regression between BCVA and age. For eyes followed longitudinally, we introduced a horizontal translation factor to each dataset to account for different ages at onset of a rapid BCVA decline. RESULTS We included 1004 eyes from 23 studies. BCVA of the right and left eyes was moderately correlated (r=0.60). BCVA as a function of age followed a 2-phase decline (slow followed by rapid decline), with an estimated transition age of 39.1 years (95% CI 33.5 to 44.7). After the introduction of horizontal translation factors to longitudinal datasets, BCVA followed a 2-phase decline until it reached 0 letters (r2=0.90). The BCVA decline rate was 0.33 letters/year (95% CI -0.38 to 1.05) before 39 years, and 1.23 letters/year (95% CI 0.55 to 1.92) after 39 years (p=0.004). CONCLUSION BCVA in eyes with CHM follows a 2-phase linear decline with a transition age of approximately 39 years. Future trials enrolling young patients may not be able to use BCVA as a primary or sole endpoint, but rather, may need to employ additional disease biomarkers that change before age 39. BCVA may still have utility as a primary endpoint for patients older than 39 years who have measurable BCVA decline rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangbo L Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Aneesha Ahluwalia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mengyuan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Benjamin K Young
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Holly K Grossetta Nardini
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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16
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Shen LL, Ahluwalia A, Sun M, Young BK, Grossetta Nardini HK, Del Priore LV. Long-term Natural History of Atrophy in Eyes with Choroideremia-A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Individual-Level Data. Ophthalmol Retina 2020; 4:840-852. [PMID: 32362554 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the natural history of atrophy secondary to choroideremia (CHM). CLINICAL RELEVANCE A sensitive and reliable anatomic measure to monitor disease progression is needed in treatment trials for CHM. However, the long-term natural history of the residual retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is unclear, with reported RPE area decline rates varying widely among patients. METHODS We searched in 7 literature databases up through July 17, 2019, to identify studies that assessed the residual RPE area in untreated eyes with CHM using fundus autofluorescence (FAF). We sought individual-eye data and investigated the RPE decline pattern using 3 models: the area linear model (ALM), radius linear model (RLM), and area exponential model (AEM), in which the area, radius, and log-transformed area of RPE change linearly with time, respectively. To account for different eyes' entry times into the studies, we added a horizontal translation factor to each dataset. The RPE decline rate was estimated using a 2-stage random-effects meta-analysis. We assessed the risk of bias using the Quality In Prognosis Studies tool. RESULTS Of 807 articles screened, we included 9 articles containing cross-sectional data (257 eyes) from 6 studies and longitudinal data (229 visits from 68 eyes) from 5 studies. The residual RPE area followed a trend of exponential decay as a function of patient age. After the introduction of horizontal translation factors to longitudinal datasets of individual eyes, the datasets fit along a straight line in the AEM over nearly 60 years (r2 = 0.997). The decline rate of log-transformed RPE area was 0.050 (95% confidence interval, 0.046-0.055) log(mm2)/year and was independent of the baseline RPE area (r = -0.18; P = 0.15) and age (r = 0.06; P = 0.63). In contrast, the decline rates of the area and effective radius of residual RPE strongly correlated with the baseline RPE area (r = 0.90 and 0.61, respectively; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The loss of residual RPE area in untreated eyes with CHM follows the AEM over approximately 60 years. Log-transformed residual RPE area measured by FAF can serve as an anatomic endpoint to monitor CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangbo L Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Aneesha Ahluwalia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Mengyuan Sun
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Benjamin K Young
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Lucian V Del Priore
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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