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Salari M, Etemadifar M, Rashedi R, Mardani S. A Review of Ocular Movement Abnormalities in Hereditary Cerebellar Ataxias. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 23:702-721. [PMID: 37000369 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-023-01554-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Cerebellar ataxias are a wide heterogeneous group of disorders that may present with fine motor deficits as well as gait and balance disturbances that have a significant influence on everyday activities. To review the ocular movements in cerebellar ataxias in order to improve the clinical knowledge of cerebellar ataxias and related subtypes. English papers published from January 1990 to May 2022 were selected by searching PubMed services. The main search keywords were ocular motor, oculomotor, eye movement, eye motility, and ocular motility, along with each ataxia subtype. The eligible papers were analyzed for clinical presentation, involved mutations, the underlying pathology, and ocular movement alterations. Forty-three subtypes of spinocerebellar ataxias and a number of autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive ataxias were discussed in terms of pathology, clinical manifestations, involved mutations, and with a focus on the ocular abnormalities. A flowchart has been made using ocular movement manifestations to differentiate different ataxia subtypes. And underlying pathology of each subtype is reviewed in form of illustrated models to reach a better understanding of each disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehri Salari
- Neurology Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Etemadifar
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ronak Rashedi
- Neurology Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sayna Mardani
- Neurology Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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2
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Saban W, Gabay S. Contributions of Lower Structures to Higher Cognition: Towards a Dynamic Network Model. J Intell 2023; 11:121. [PMID: 37367523 DOI: 10.3390/jintelligence11060121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers often attribute higher cognition to the enlargement of cortical regions throughout evolution, reflecting the belief that humans sit at the top of the cognitive pyramid. Implicitly, this approach assumes that the subcortex is of secondary importance for higher-order cognition. While it is now recognized that subcortical regions can be involved in various cognitive domains, it remains unclear how they contribute to computations essential for higher-level cognitive processes such as endogenous attention and numerical cognition. Herein, we identify three models of subcortical-cortical relations in these cognitive processes: (i) subcortical regions are not involved in higher cognition; (ii) subcortical computations support elemental forms of higher cognition mainly in species without a developed cortex; and (iii) higher cognition depends on a whole-brain dynamic network, requiring integrated cortical and subcortical computations. Based on evolutionary theories and recent data, we propose the SEED hypothesis: the Subcortex is Essential for the Early Development of higher cognition. According to the five principles of the SEED hypothesis, subcortical computations are essential for the emergence of cognitive abilities that enable organisms to adapt to an ever-changing environment. We examine the implications of the SEED hypothesis from a multidisciplinary perspective to understand how the subcortex contributes to various forms of higher cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Saban
- Center for Accessible Neuropsychology, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Shai Gabay
- Department of Psychology, the Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
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3
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Saucier J, Al-Qadi M, Amor MB, Ishikawa K, Chamard-Witkowski L. Spinocerebellar ataxia type 31: A clinical and radiological literature review. J Neurol Sci 2023; 444:120527. [PMID: 36563608 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 31 (SCA31) is an autosomal dominant disease, classified amongst pure cerebellar ataxias (ADCA type 3). While SCA31 is the third most prevalent autosomal dominant ataxia in Japan, it is extremely rare in other countries. A literature review was conducted on PubMed, where we included all case reports and studies describing the clinical presentation of original SCA31 cases. The clinical and radiological features of 374 patients issued from 25 studies were collected. This review revealed that the average age of onset was 59.1 ± 3.3 years, with symptoms of slowly progressing ataxia and dysarthria. Other common clinical features were oculomotor dysfunction (38.8%), dysphagia (22.1%), hypoacousia (23.3%), vibratory hypoesthesia (24.3%), and dysreflexia (41.6%). Unfrequently, abnormal movements (7.4%), extrapyramidal symptoms (4.5%) and cognitive impairment (6.9%) may be observed. Upon radiological examination, clinicians can expect a high prevalence of cerebellar atrophy (78.7%), occasionally accompanied by brainstem (9.1%) and cortical (9.1%) atrophy. Although SCA31 is described as a slowly progressive pure cerebellar syndrome characterized by cerebellar signs such as ataxia, dysarthria and oculomotor dysfunction, this study evaluated a high prevalence of extracerebellar manifestations. Extracerebellar signs were observed in 52.5% of patients, primarily consisting of dysreflexia, vibratory hypoesthesia and hypoacousia. Nonetheless, we must consider the old age and longstanding disease course of patients as a confounding factor for extracerebellar sign development, as some may not be directly attributable to SCA31. Clinicians should consider SCA31 in patients with a hereditary, pure cerebellar syndrome and in patients with extracerebellar signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Saucier
- Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Université de Sherbrooke, Moncton, NB, Canada..
| | - Mohammad Al-Qadi
- Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Université de Sherbrooke, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Mouna Ben Amor
- Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Université de Sherbrooke, Moncton, NB, Canada.; Department of Genetic Medicine, Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Kinya Ishikawa
- The Center for Personalized Medecine for Healthy Aging, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Yushima 1-5-45, Bunkyo-ku, 113-8519 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ludivine Chamard-Witkowski
- Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Université de Sherbrooke, Moncton, NB, Canada.; Department of Neurology, Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre, Moncton, NB, Canada
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4
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Taraschi A, Cimini C, Colosimo A, Ramal-Sanchez M, Valbonetti L, Bernabò N, Barboni B. An interactive analysis of the mouse oviductal miRNA profiles. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1015360. [PMID: 36340025 PMCID: PMC9627480 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1015360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are small non-coding molecules that control several cellular functions and act as negative post-transcriptional regulators of the mRNA. While their implication in several biological functions is already known, an important role as regulators of different physiological and pathological processes in fertilization and embryo development is currently emerging. Indeed, miRNAs have been found in the oviductal fluid packaged within the extracellular vesicles, which might act as natural nanoshuttles by transporting lipids, proteins, RNA molecules and miRNAs from the oviduct to the gametes or embryos. Here, an exhaustive bibliography search was carried out, followed by the construction of a computational model based on the networks theory in an attempt to recreate and elucidate the pathways potentially activated by the oviductal miRNA. The omics data published to date were gathered to create the Oviductal MiRNome, in which the miRNA target genes and their interactions are represented by using stringApp and the Network analyzer from Cytoscape 3.7.2. Then, the hyperlinked nodes were identified to investigate the pathways in which they are involved using the gene ontology enrichment analysis. To study the phenotypical effects after the removal of key genes on the reproductive system and embryo, knockout mouse lines for every protein-coding gene were investigated by using the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium database. The creation of the Oviductal MiRNome revealed the presence of important genes and their interactions within the network. The functional enrichment analysis revealed that the hyperlinked nodes are involved in fundamental cellular functions, both structural and regulatory/signaling, suggesting their implication in fertilization and early embryo development. This fact was as well evidenced by the effects of the gene deletion in KO mice on the reproductive system and embryo development. The present study highlights the importance of studying the miRNA profiles and their enormous potential as tools to improve the assisted reproductive techniques currently used in human and animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Taraschi
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Dell’Abruzzo e Del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessia Colosimo
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Nicola Bernabò,
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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5
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Janacsek K, Evans TM, Kiss M, Shah L, Blumenfeld H, Ullman MT. Subcortical Cognition: The Fruit Below the Rind. Annu Rev Neurosci 2022; 45:361-386. [PMID: 35385670 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-110920-013544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive neuroscience has highlighted the cerebral cortex while often overlooking subcortical structures. This cortical proclivity is found in basic and translational research on many aspects of cognition, especially higher cognitive domains such as language, reading, music, and math. We suggest that, for both anatomical and evolutionary reasons, multiple subcortical structures play substantial roles across higher and lower cognition. We present a comprehensive review of existing evidence, which indeed reveals extensive subcortical contributions in multiple cognitive domains. We argue that the findings are overall both real and important. Next, we advance a theoretical framework to capture the nature of (sub)cortical contributions to cognition. Finally, we propose how new subcortical cognitive roles can be identified by leveraging anatomical and evolutionary principles, and we describe specific methods that can be used to reveal subcortical cognition. Altogether, this review aims to advance cognitive neuroscience by highlighting subcortical cognition and facilitating its future investigation. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Neuroscience, Volume 45 is July 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Janacsek
- Centre for Thinking and Learning, Institute for Lifecourse Development, School of Human Sciences, Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom.,Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tanya M Evans
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Mariann Kiss
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Cognitive Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Leela Shah
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Hal Blumenfeld
- Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience and Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael T Ullman
- Brain and Language Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA;
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6
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Prudencio M, Garcia-Moreno H, Jansen-West KR, Al-Shaikh RH, Gendron TF, Heckman MG, Spiegel MR, Carlomagno Y, Daughrity LM, Song Y, Dunmore JA, Byron N, Oskarsson B, Nicholson KA, Staff NP, Gorcenco S, Puschmann A, Lemos J, Januário C, LeDoux MS, Friedman JH, Polke J, Labrum R, Shakkottai V, McLoughlin HS, Paulson HL, Konno T, Onodera O, Ikeuchi T, Tada M, Kakita A, Fryer JD, Karremo C, Gomes I, Caviness JN, Pittelkow MR, Aasly J, Pfeiffer RF, Veerappan V, Eggenberger ER, Freeman WD, Huang JF, Uitti RJ, Wierenga KJ, Marin Collazo IV, Tipton PW, van Gerpen JA, van Blitterswijk M, Bu G, Wszolek ZK, Giunti P, Petrucelli L. Toward allele-specific targeting therapy and pharmacodynamic marker for spinocerebellar ataxia type 3. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/566/eabb7086. [PMID: 33087504 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abb7086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), caused by a CAG repeat expansion in the ataxin-3 gene (ATXN3), is characterized by neuronal polyglutamine (polyQ) ATXN3 protein aggregates. Although there is no cure for SCA3, gene-silencing approaches to reduce toxic polyQ ATXN3 showed promise in preclinical models. However, a major limitation in translating putative treatments for this rare disease to the clinic is the lack of pharmacodynamic markers for use in clinical trials. Here, we developed an immunoassay that readily detects polyQ ATXN3 proteins in human biological fluids and discriminates patients with SCA3 from healthy controls and individuals with other ataxias. We show that polyQ ATXN3 serves as a marker of target engagement in human fibroblasts, which may bode well for its use in clinical trials. Last, we identified a single-nucleotide polymorphism that strongly associates with the expanded allele, thus providing an exciting drug target to abrogate detrimental events initiated by mutant ATXN3. Gene-silencing strategies for several repeat diseases are well under way, and our results are expected to improve clinical trial preparedness for SCA3 therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Prudencio
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Hector Garcia-Moreno
- Ataxia Centre, Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK.,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | | | | | - Tania F Gendron
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Michael G Heckman
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Matthew R Spiegel
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Yari Carlomagno
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | | | - Yuping Song
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Judith A Dunmore
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Natalie Byron
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Björn Oskarsson
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Katharine A Nicholson
- Sean M. Healey and AMG Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nathan P Staff
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Sorina Gorcenco
- Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurology, Lund 22185, Sweden
| | - Andreas Puschmann
- Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurology, Lund 22185, Sweden
| | - João Lemos
- Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra University, Coimbra 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Cristina Januário
- Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra University, Coimbra 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Mark S LeDoux
- University of Memphis and Veracity Neuroscience LLC, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Joseph H Friedman
- Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - James Polke
- Ataxia Centre, Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK.,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Robin Labrum
- Ataxia Centre, Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK.,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Vikram Shakkottai
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Henry L Paulson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Takuya Konno
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Osamu Onodera
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ikeuchi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Mari Tada
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Kakita
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - John D Fryer
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA
| | - Christin Karremo
- Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurology, Lund 22185, Sweden
| | - Inês Gomes
- Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra University, Coimbra 3000-075, Portugal
| | - John N Caviness
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA
| | - Mark R Pittelkow
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA
| | - Jan Aasly
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7006 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ronald F Pfeiffer
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Venka Veerappan
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ryan J Uitti
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Klaas J Wierenga
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | | | - Philip W Tipton
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | | | - Marka van Blitterswijk
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | | | - Paola Giunti
- Ataxia Centre, Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK. .,Ataxia Centre, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Leonard Petrucelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA. .,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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7
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Mechanisms of repeat-associated non-AUG translation in neurological microsatellite expansion disorders. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:775-792. [PMID: 33729487 PMCID: PMC8106499 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Repeat-associated non-AUG (RAN) translation was discovered in 2011 in spinocerebellar ataxia type 8 (SCA8) and myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). This non-canonical form of translation occurs in all reading frames from both coding and non-coding regions of sense and antisense transcripts carrying expansions of trinucleotide to hexanucleotide repeat sequences. RAN translation has since been reported in 7 of the 53 known microsatellite expansion disorders which mainly present with neurodegenerative features. RAN translation leads to the biosynthesis of low-complexity polymeric repeat proteins with aggregating and cytotoxic properties. However, the molecular mechanisms and protein factors involved in assembling functional ribosomes in absence of canonical AUG start codons remain poorly characterised while secondary repeat RNA structures play key roles in initiating RAN translation. Here, we briefly review the repeat expansion disorders, their complex pathogenesis and the mechanisms of physiological translation initiation together with the known factors involved in RAN translation. Finally, we discuss research challenges surrounding the understanding of pathogenesis and future directions that may provide opportunities for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for this group of incurable neurodegenerative diseases.
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8
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Wernick AI, Walton RL, Soto-Beasley AI, Koga S, Heckman MG, Valentino RR, Milanowski LM, Hoffman-Zacharska D, Koziorowski D, Hassan A, Uitti RJ, Cheshire WP, Singer W, Wszolek ZK, Dickson DW, Low PA, Ross OA. Frequency of spinocerebellar ataxia mutations in patients with multiple system atrophy. Clin Auton Res 2021; 31:117-125. [PMID: 33502644 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-020-00759-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigate single nucleotide variants and short tandem repeats in 39 genes related to spinocerebellar ataxia in clinical and pathologically defined cohorts of multiple system atrophy. METHODS Exome sequencing was conducted in 28 clinical multiple system atrophy patients to identify single nucleotide variants in spinocerebellar ataxia-related genes. Novel variants were validated in two independent disease cohorts: 86 clinically diagnosed multiple system atrophy patients and 166 pathological multiple system atrophy cases. Expanded repeat alleles in spinocerebellar ataxia genes were evaluated in 36 clinically diagnosed multiple system atrophy patients, and CAG/CAA repeats in TATA-Box Binding Protein (TBP, causative of SCA17) were screened in 216 clinical and pathological multiple system atrophy patients and 346 controls. RESULTS No known pathogenic spinocerebellar ataxia single nucleotide variants or pathogenic range expanded repeat alleles of ATXN1, ATXN2, ATXN3, CACNA1A, AXTN7, ATXN8OS, ATXN10, PPP2R2B, and TBP were detected in any clinical multiple system atrophy patients. However, four novel variants were identified in four spinocerebellar ataxia-related genes across three multiple system atrophy patients. Additionally, four multiple system atrophy patients (1.6%) and one control (0.3%) carried an intermediate length 41 TBP CAG/CAA repeat allele (OR = 4.11, P = 0.21). There was a significant association between the occurrence of a repeat length of longer alleles (> 38 repeats) and an increased risk of multiple system atrophy (OR = 1.64, P = 0.03). CONCLUSION Occurrence of TBP CAG/CAA repeat length of longer alleles (> 38 repeats) is significantly associated with increased multiple system atrophy risk. This discovery warrants further investigation and supports a possible genetic overlap of multiple system atrophy with SCA17.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna I Wernick
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ronald L Walton
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Alexandra I Soto-Beasley
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Shunsuke Koga
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Michael G Heckman
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Rebecca R Valentino
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Lukasz M Milanowski
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Health Science, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Dariusz Koziorowski
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Health Science, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anhar Hassan
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ryan J Uitti
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dennis W Dickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Phillip A Low
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Owen A Ross
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
- Mayo Graduate School, Neuroscience Track, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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9
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Spinocerebellar ataxia type 23 (SCA23): a review. J Neurol 2020; 268:4630-4645. [PMID: 33175256 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10297-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), formerly known as autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs), are a group of hereditary heterogeneous neurodegenerative diseases. Gait, progressive ataxia, dysarthria, and eye movement disorder are common symptoms of spinocerebellar ataxias. Other symptoms include peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment, psychosis, and seizures. Patients may lose their lives due to out of coordinated respiration and/or swallowing. Neurological signs cover pyramidal or extrapyramidal signs, spasm, ophthalmoplegia, hyperactive deep tendon reflexes, and so on. Different subtypes of SCAs present various clinical features. Spinocerebellar ataxia type 23 (SCA23), one subtype of the SCA family, is characterized by mutant prodynorphin (PDYN) gene. Based on literatures, this review details a series of SCA23, to improve a whole understanding of clinicians and point out the potential research direction of this dysfunction, including a history, pathophysiological mechanism, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, epigenetics, penetrance and prevalence, genetic counseling, treatment and prognosis.
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10
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Hirose A, Katagiri S, Hayashi T, Matsuura T, Nagai N, Fujinami K, Iwata T, Tsunoda K. Progress of macular atrophy during 30 months' follow-up in a patient with spinocerebellar ataxia type1 (SCA1). Doc Ophthalmol 2020; 142:87-98. [PMID: 32648025 DOI: 10.1007/s10633-020-09782-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the 30-months' course of macular dystrophy in a patient with genetically confirmed spinocerebellar ataxia type1 (SCA1). METHODS Detailed ophthalmological examinations including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), perimetry, multimodal fundus imaging, and electrophysiological recordings were performed on a 52-year-old woman with SCA1. The number of CAG sequence repeats of the candidate gene was verified. RESULTS The baseline decimal BCVA was 0.2 OD and 0.3 OS. Goldman perimetry showed relative central scotomas and slight enlargements of Mariotte blind spot bilaterally. Ophthalmoscopy revealed no abnormalities in the macula and optic disk. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) showed a circular hyperautofluorescence and round-shaped hypoautofluorescence in the macula. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed a loss of the interdigitation zone and ellipsoid zone (EZ) in the macula. Full-field scotopic and photopic Full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) were normal, and multifocal ERGs were decreased in the central area. After 30 months, the BCVA had not changed, but the FAF showed a spark-like hypoautofluorescence in the macula. The abnormal area of the EZ had expanded toward the periphery, and the rate of EZ loss was 199.7%/year OD and 206.8%/year OS. Genetic examinations revealed an increase in the number of heterozygous CAG repeats in the ATXN1 gene, and the CAG repeat number of the mutant allele ranged from 43 to 48. CONCLUSIONS The full-field scotopic and photopic ERGs were normal. The mfERGs were significantly smaller in the central region. OCT demonstrated bilateral photoreceptor atrophy in the macula, and the rate of EZ loss was more rapid than in other macular dystrophies. Spark-like hypoautofluorescence appeared during the course of the disease process which might be a specific feature of SCA1-related retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayane Hirose
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Katagiri
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takaaki Hayashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Matsuura
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Nagai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Fujinami
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Takeshi Iwata
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazushige Tsunoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.
- Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan.
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11
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Hong S, Lee SJ, Cho SR. Chromosomal Deletion in 7q31.2-31.32 Involving Ca2+-Dependent Activator Protein for Secretion Gene in a Patient with Cerebellar Ataxia: a Case Report. BRAIN & NEUROREHABILITATION 2019; 13:e9. [PMID: 36744273 PMCID: PMC9879524 DOI: 10.12786/bn.2020.13.e9] [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: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a 33-year-old male patient with cerebellar ataxia. He was first considered to have a psychiatric conversion disorder but finally found to have chromosomal deletion in 7q31.2-31.32 involving Ca2+-dependent activator protein for secretion (CADPS) gene. When a targeted gene sequencing using next-generation sequencing panel and chromosomal microarray analysis were performed, an 8.6 Mb deletion within chromosome 7q31.2-31.32 was discovered. Deletion of CADPS gene in the 7q31.2-31.32 was suggested as the causative factor of cerebellar ataxia. Functional levels evaluated by Berg balance scale and modified Barthel index were improved via comprehensive rehabilitation including balance training and a dopamine agonist medication. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chromosomal deletion in 7q31.2-31.32 including CADPS gene detected in patients with cerebellar ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungbeen Hong
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Ji Lee
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Rae Cho
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Intensive Outpatient Treatment of Depression in a Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 1 Patient. Case Rep Psychiatry 2019; 2019:9186797. [PMID: 30886755 PMCID: PMC6388339 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9186797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is but one subtype of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), each of which can possibly be considered a separate neurological condition (N. Whaley, S. Fujioka, Z. K. Wszolek, 2011). SCA is hereditary, progressive, and degenerative. SCA1 symptoms initially include coordination problems and ataxia. SCA1 can also include speech and swallowing difficulties, spasticity, ophthalmoplegia, cognitive difficulties, and even sensory neuropathy, dystonia, atrophy, and fasciculations. Literature has established that depressive symptoms can be exhibited with spinocerebellar ataxia patients regardless of type (T. Schmitz-Hübsch, 2011). While a higher risk for depression occurs with more severe SCA disease, successful treatment to mitigate symptoms has been documented (N. Okamoto, M. Ogawa, Y. Murata, et al., 2010). In this case a SCA1 patient with advanced neurological disease was enrolled in a psychiatric intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment program in the midwestern United States to address his comorbid depressive symptoms. This treatment option allowed a less restrictive environment while providing a more structured therapeutic setting and social support for the patient, much more so than that which is typically offered in a traditional outpatient setting. Case Report A patient with relatively advanced SCA1 successfully participated in a psychiatric IOP program or depressive symptoms and benefitted from the program's structure and additional psychosocial support. Conclusion Awareness among physicians, particularly psychiatrists and neurologists, regarding IOP programs as a treatment option for comorbid depression in the clinical setting of progressive SCA or other neurological conditions can be beneficial to patients requiring an increased level of psychiatric treatment.
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13
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Hanna Al Shaikh R, Caulfield T, Strongosky AJ, Matthew M, Jansen-West KR, Prudencio M, Fryer JD, Petrucelli L, Uitti RJ, Wszolek ZK. TRIO gene segregation in a family with cerebellar ataxia. Neurol Neurochir Pol 2018; 52:743-749. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pjnns.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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14
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Halbach MV, Gispert S, Stehning T, Damrath E, Walter M, Auburger G. Atxn2 Knockout and CAG42-Knock-in Cerebellum Shows Similarly Dysregulated Expression in Calcium Homeostasis Pathway. THE CEREBELLUM 2017; 16:68-81. [PMID: 26868665 PMCID: PMC5243904 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-016-0762-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is an autosomal dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder with preferential affection of Purkinje neurons, which are known as integrators of calcium currents. The expansion of a polyglutamine (polyQ) domain in the RNA-binding protein ataxin-2 (ATXN2) is responsible for this disease, but the causal roles of deficient ATXN2 functions versus aggregation toxicity are still under debate. Here, we studied mouse mutants with Atxn2 knockout (KO) regarding their cerebellar global transcriptome by microarray and RT-qPCR, in comparison with data from Atxn2-CAG42-knock-in (KIN) mouse cerebellum. Global expression downregulations involved lipid and growth signaling pathways in good agreement with previous data. As a novel effect, downregulations of key factors in calcium homeostasis pathways (the transcription factor Rora, transporters Itpr1 and Atp2a2, as well as regulator Inpp5a) were observed in the KO cerebellum, and some of them also occurred subtly early in KIN cerebellum. The ITPR1 protein levels were depleted from soluble fractions of cerebellum in both mutants, but accumulated in its membrane-associated form only in the SCA2 model. Coimmunoprecipitation demonstrated no association of ITPR1 with Q42-expanded or with wild-type ATXN2. These findings provide evidence that the physiological functions and protein interactions of ATXN2 are relevant for calcium-mediated excitation of Purkinje cells as well as for ATXN2-triggered neurotoxicity. These insights may help to understand pathogenesis and tissue specificity in SCA2 and other polyQ ataxias like SCA1, where inositol regulation of calcium flux and RORalpha play a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Vanessa Halbach
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Goethe University Medical School, Building 89, 3rd floor, Theodor Stern Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Suzana Gispert
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Goethe University Medical School, Building 89, 3rd floor, Theodor Stern Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Tanja Stehning
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Goethe University Medical School, Building 89, 3rd floor, Theodor Stern Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ewa Damrath
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Goethe University Medical School, Building 89, 3rd floor, Theodor Stern Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Michael Walter
- Institute for Medical Genetics, Eberhard-Karls-University of Tuebingen, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Georg Auburger
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurology, Goethe University Medical School, Building 89, 3rd floor, Theodor Stern Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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15
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Orozco-Gutiérrez M, Cervantes-Aragón I, García-Cruz D. Consideraciones éticas en el diagnóstico presintomático de ataxias espinocerebelosas autosómico dominantes. Neurologia 2017; 32:469-475. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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16
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Orozco-Gutiérrez M, Cervantes-Aragón I, García-Cruz D. Ethical considerations in presymptomatic diagnosis of autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxias. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2015.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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17
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Cui Y, Yang S, Li XJ, Li S. Genetically modified rodent models of SCA17. J Neurosci Res 2017; 95:1540-1547. [PMID: 27859490 PMCID: PMC5508981 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 17 (SCA17) is a type of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia (ADCA) characterized by variable manifestations, including cerebellar ataxia, dementia, and psychiatric symptoms. Since the identification of a CAG repeat expansion in the TATA-box binding protein (TBP) gene in a patient with ataxia in 1999 and then verification of this expansion in patients with SCA17 in 2001, several SCA17 rodent models, including both knock-in and transgenic models in mice and rats, have been established to explore the phenotypic features and pathogenesis of SCA17. These animal models revealed different pathological changes and phenotypes that are associated with the expression of mutant TBP protein and the CAG repeat lengths. It is important to understand how mutant TBP can cause differential pathological events in SCA17 animal models. In this review, we summarize and compare these animal models for the nature of transgenes and their expression as well as phenotypical features. We also discuss potential directions for future studies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Cui
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Su Yang
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Shihua Li
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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18
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Wagner JL, O'Connor DM, Donsante A, Boulis NM. Gene, Stem Cell, and Alternative Therapies for SCA 1. Front Mol Neurosci 2016; 9:67. [PMID: 27570504 PMCID: PMC4981596 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia 1 is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by neurodegeneration and motor dysfunction. In disease pathogenesis, polyglutamine expansion within Ataxin-1, a gene involved in transcriptional repression, causes protein nuclear inclusions to form. Most notably, neuronal dysfunction presents in Purkinje cells. However, the effect of mutant Ataxin-1 is not entirely understood. Two mouse models are employed to represent spinocerebellar ataxia 1, a B05 transgenic model that specifically expresses mutant Ataxin-1 in Purkinje cells, and a Sca1 154Q/2Q model that inserts the polyglutamine expansion into the mouse Ataxin-1 locus so that the mutant Ataxin-1 is expressed in all cells that express Ataxin-1. This review aims to summarize and evaluate the wide variety of therapies proposed for spinocerebellar ataxia 1, specifically gene and stem cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Wagner
- Boulis Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Emory School of Medicine Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Deirdre M O'Connor
- Boulis Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Emory School of Medicine Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anthony Donsante
- Boulis Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Emory School of Medicine Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nicholas M Boulis
- Boulis Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Emory School of Medicine Atlanta, GA, USA
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19
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Sun YM, Lu C, Wu ZY. Spinocerebellar ataxia: relationship between phenotype and genotype - a review. Clin Genet 2016; 90:305-14. [PMID: 27220866 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) comprises a large group of heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorders inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. It is characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia with oculomotor dysfunction, dysarthria, pyramidal signs, extrapyramidal signs, pigmentary retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment and other symptoms. It is classified according to the clinical manifestations or genetic nosology. To date, 40 SCAs have been characterized, and include SCA1-40. The pathogenic genes of 28 SCAs were identified. In recent years, with the widespread clinical use of next-generation sequencing, the genes underlying SCAs, and the mutants as well as the affected phenotypes were identified. These advances elucidated the phenotype-genotype relationship in SCAs. We reviewed the recent clinical advances, genetic features and phenotype-genotype correlations involving each SCA and its differentiation. The heterogeneity of the disease and the genetic diagnosis might be attributed to the regional distribution and clinical characteristics. Therefore, recognition of the phenotype-genotype relationship facilitates genetic testing, prognosis and monitoring of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-M Sun
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - C Lu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Z-Y Wu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China. .,Joint Institute for Genetics and Genome Medicine between Zhejiang University and University of Toronto, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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20
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Marcián V, Filip P, Bareš M, Brázdil M. Cerebellar Dysfunction and Ataxia in Patients with Epilepsy: Coincidence, Consequence, or Cause? TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 6:376. [PMID: 27375960 PMCID: PMC4925921 DOI: 10.7916/d8kh0nbt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Basic epilepsy teachings assert that seizures arise from the cerebral cortex, glossing over infratentorial structures such as the cerebellum that are believed to modulate rather than generate seizures. Nonetheless, ataxia and other clinical findings in epileptic patients are slowly but inevitably drawing attention to this neural node. Tracing the evolution of this line of inquiry from the observed coincidence of cerebellar atrophy and cerebellar dysfunction (most apparently manifested as ataxia) in epilepsy to their close association, this review considers converging clinical, physiological, histological, and neuroimaging evidence that support incorporating the cerebellum into epilepsy pathology. We examine reports of still controversial cerebellar epilepsy, studies of cerebellar stimulation alleviating paroxysmal epileptic activity, studies and case reports of cerebellar lesions directly associated with seizures, and conditions in which ataxia is accompanied by epileptic seizures. Finally, the review substantiates the role of this complex brain structure in epilepsy whether by coincidence, as a consequence of deleterious cortical epileptic activity or antiepileptic drugs, or the very cause of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Václav Marcián
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Pavel Filip
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Bareš
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Milan Brázdil
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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21
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Boz PB, Koç F, Kocatürk Sel S, Güzel Aİ, Kasap H. Determination of Genotypic and Phenotypic Characteristics of Friedreich's Ataxia and Autosomal Dominant Spinocerebellar Ataxia Types 1, 2, 3, and 6. Noro Psikiyatr Ars 2016; 53:115-119. [PMID: 28360782 DOI: 10.5152/npa.2015.9925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to analyze the genotypic characteristics of Friedreich's ataxia (FA) and autosomal dominant ataxias [such as spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) types 1, 2, 3, and 6] using molecular and biological methods in hereditary cerebellar ataxia considering both clinical and electrophysiological findings. METHODS The study included 129 indexed cases, who applied to the neurology department and were diagnosed with hereditary cerebellar ataxia through clinical, laboratory, and electrophysiological findings, and 15 sibling patients who were diagnosed through family scanning (144 cases in total); their genetic analyses were also performed. Detailed physical and neurological examinations, pedigree analyses, electroneurography, evoked potentials, cerebral-spinal magnetic resonance imaging, and echocardiographic analyses were performed for all cases. Blood samples were collected from patients, and the genotypic characteristics of autosomal dominant SCA types 1, 2, 3, and 6 were investigated. Statistical analyses were performed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS Inc; Chicago, IL, USA) 17.0. RESULTS Almost 50% of patients were defined as FA. Moreover, two SCA1 cases and one SCA6 case were detected. CONCLUSION In our study, 47.2% of patients with FA had developed hereditary cerebellar ataxia. Ground and autosomal dominant-linked SCA1 and SCA6 were each detected in one family. These data suggest that patients with cerebellar ataxia of hereditary origin should be primarily examined for FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pınar Bengi Boz
- Clinic of Neurology, Adana Numune Training and Research Hospital, Adana, Turkey
| | - Filiz Koç
- Department of Neurology, Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
| | - Sabriye Kocatürk Sel
- Department of Medical Biology, Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ali İrfan Güzel
- Department of Medical Biology, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Faculty of Medicine, Rize, Turkey
| | - Halil Kasap
- Department of Medical Biology, Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
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22
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Borroni B, Di Gregorio E, Orsi L, Vaula G, Costanzi C, Tempia F, Mitro N, Caruso D, Manes M, Pinessi L, Padovani A, Brusco A, Boccone L. Clinical and neuroradiological features of spinocerebellar ataxia 38 (SCA38). Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2016; 28:80-6. [PMID: 27143115 PMCID: PMC4925464 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2016.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION SCA38 (MIM 611805) caused by mutations within the ELOVL5 gene, which encodes an enzyme involved in the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids with a high and specific expression in Purkinje cells, has recently been identified. OBJECTIVE The present study was aimed at describing the clinical and neuroimaging features, and the natural history of SCA38. METHODS We extended our clinical and brain neuroimaging data on SCA38 including 21 cases from three Italian families. All had the ELOVL5 c.689G > T (p.Gly230Val) missense mutation. RESULTS Age at disease onset was in the fourth decade of life. The presenting features were nystagmus (100% of cases) and slowly progressive gait ataxia (95%). Frequent signs and symptoms included pes cavus (82%) and hyposmia (76%); rarer symptoms were hearing loss (33%) and anxiety disorder (33%). The disease progressed with cerebellar symptoms such as limb ataxia, dysarthria, dysphagia, and ophtalmoparesis followed in the later stages by ophtalmoplegia. Peripheral nervous system involvement was present in the last phase of disease with sensory loss. Dementia or extrapyramidal signs were not detected. Significant loss of abilities of daily living was reported only after 20 years of the disease. Brain imaging documented cerebellar atrophy with sparing of cerebral cortex and no white matter disease. CONCLUSIONS SCA38 is a rare form of inherited ataxia with characteristic clinical features, including pes cavus and hyposmia, that may guide genetic screening and prompt diagnosis in light of possible future therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Borroni
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Di Gregorio
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Orsi
- Neurologic Division 1, Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Giovanna Vaula
- Neurologic Division 1, Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Filippo Tempia
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO) and Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Manes
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pinessi
- Neurologic Division 1, Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Brusco
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Turin, Italy
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Vogel AP, Keage MJ, Johansson K, Schalling E. Treatment for dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) in hereditary ataxia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 2015:CD010169. [PMID: 26564018 PMCID: PMC8504981 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010169.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary ataxias are a heterogeneous group of disorders resulting in progressive inco-ordination. Swallowing impairment, also known as dysphagia, is a common and potentially life threatening sequel of disease progression. The incidence and nature of dysphagia in these conditions is largely unknown. The loss of an effective and safe swallow can dramatically affect the health and well-being of an individual. Remediation of difficulties of eating and drinking is an important goal in the clinical care of people with hereditary ataxia. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of interventions for swallowing impairment (dysphagia) in people with hereditary ataxias. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, and the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) on 14 September 2015. We also searched Linguistics and Language Behavior Abstracts (LLBA), Dissertation Abstracts, and Trials Registries on 24 September 2015. SELECTION CRITERIA We considered all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs that compared treatments for hereditary ataxia with placebo or no treatment. We only included studies measuring dysphagia. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three review authors (ES, KJ, MK) independently screened all titles and abstracts. In the event of any disagreement or uncertainty over the inclusion of a particular paper, the review authors planned to meet and reach consensus. MAIN RESULTS We identified no RCTs from the 519 titles and abstracts screened. We excluded papers primarily for not including participants with a hereditary ataxia (that is, being focused on other neurological conditions), being theoretical reviews rather than intervention studies, or being neither randomised nor quasi-randomised trials.We identified five papers of various design that described treatment for dysphagia, or improvement to swallow as a by-product of treatment, in people with hereditary ataxia. None of these studies were RCTs or quasi-RCTs. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is an absence of any significant evidence supporting the use of any dysphagia intervention in hereditary ataxia. The lack of evidence highlights the critical need for well-controlled treatment trials in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam P Vogel
- The University of MelbourneCentre for Neuroscience of Speech550 Swanston StreetParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3010
| | - Megan J Keage
- The University of MelbourneCentre for Neuroscience of Speech550 Swanston StreetParkvilleMelbourneVictoriaAustralia3010
| | - Kerstin Johansson
- Karolinska InstitutetDepartment of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Speech and Language PathologyB69, Karolinska University HospitalHuddingeStockholmSwedenSE 141 86
| | - Ellika Schalling
- Karolinska InstitutetDepartment of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Speech and Language PathologyB69, Karolinska University HospitalHuddingeStockholmSwedenSE 141 86
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Iwasaki Y, Mori K, Ito M, Mimuro M, Yoshida M. Presenile onset of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 presenting with conspicuous psychiatric symptoms and widespread anti-expanded polyglutamine antibody- and fused in sarcoma antibody-immunopositive pathology. Psychogeriatrics 2015; 15:212-7. [PMID: 25920043 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A 50-year-old Japanese man showed slowly progressive gait disturbance and dysarthria. Neurological examination 5 years after onset revealed slow eye movement with nystagmus as well as limb and truncal ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed atrophy of the cerebellum and brainstem. Because genetic examination revealed CAG repeat expansion of the ataxin-1 gene, the patient was diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxia type 1. Ten years after onset, he showed psychiatric symptoms with cognitive impairment, and antipsychotic drugs were administered. As psychiatric symptoms gradually worsened, particularly with regard to resisting nursing care and shouting, the doses of the drugs were increased. Although the clinicopathologic findings were generally identical to previously reported spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 cases with the exception of the conspicuous psychiatric symptoms, there are two notable immunohistochemical findings. Firstly, numerous anti-expanded polyglutamine antibody-immunopositive neuronal inclusions were extensively observed, including in the cerebral cortex and limbic system, but not in the Purkinje cells. Secondly, anti-fused in sarcoma antibody-immunopositive intranuclear inclusions were extensively observed. We posit that the anti-expanded polyglutamine antibody-immunopositive neuronal inclusions and possibly the anti-fused in sarcoma antibody-immunopositive inclusions, particularly those in the neocortex and limbic system, may correspond to the psychiatric symptoms and cognitive impairment that were observed in the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Iwasaki
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute for Medical Science of Aging, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Keiko Mori
- Department of Neurology, Oyamada Memorial Spa Hospital, Yokkaichi, Japan
| | - Masumi Ito
- Department of Neurology, Oyamada Memorial Spa Hospital, Yokkaichi, Japan
| | - Maya Mimuro
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute for Medical Science of Aging, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Mari Yoshida
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute for Medical Science of Aging, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
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Dabaja AA, Wosnitzer MS, Mielnik A, Bolyakov A, Schlegel PN, Paduch DA. Bulbocavernosus muscle area measurement: a novel method to assess androgenic activity. Asian J Androl 2015; 16:618-22. [PMID: 24589463 PMCID: PMC4104093 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.123681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum testosterone does not correlate with androgen tissue activity, and it is critical to optimize tools to evaluate such activity in males. Ultrasound measurement of bulbocavernosus muscle (BCM) was used to assess the relationship between the number of CAG repeats (CAGn) in the androgen receptor (AR) and the BCM size; the changes in the number of CAGn over age were also evaluated. Transperineal ultrasound measurement of the BCM was also performed. AR CAGn were determined by high performance liquid chromatography, and morning hormone levels were determined using immunoassays. Forty-eight men had CAG repeat analysis. Twenty-five were <30 years of age, mean 23.7 years (s.d. = 3.24) and 23 were >45 years of age, mean 53 years (s.d. = 5.58). The median CAGn was 21 (13-29). BCM area was greater when the number of CAGn were <18 as compared to the number of CAGn >24 (P = 0.04). There was a linear correlation between the number of CAGn and the BCM area R 2 = 16% (P = 0.01). In the 45 to 65-years-old group, a much stronger negative correlation (R 2 = 29%, P = 0.01) was noticed. In the 19 to 29-years-old group, no such correlation was found (R 2 = 4%, P = 0.36). In older men, the number of CAGn increased with age (R 2 = 32%, P = 0.01). The number of CAGn in the AR correlates with the area of the BCM. Ultrasound assessment of the BCM is an effective surrogate to evaluate end-organ activity of androgens. The number of CAGn may increase with age.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Darius A Paduch
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
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26
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González-Zaldívar Y, Vázquez-Mojena Y, Laffita-Mesa JM, Almaguer-Mederos LE, Rodríguez-Labrada R, Sánchez-Cruz G, Aguilera-Rodríguez R, Cruz-Mariño T, Canales-Ochoa N, MacLeod P, Velázquez-Pérez L. Epidemiological, clinical, and molecular characterization of Cuban families with spinocerebellar ataxia type 3/Machado-Joseph disease. CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2015; 2:1. [PMID: 26331044 PMCID: PMC4552099 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-015-0020-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3/Machado-Joseph Disease (SCA3/MJD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder resulting from the expansion of CAG repeats in the ATXN3 gene. It is the most common autosomal dominant ataxia in the world, but its frequency prevalence in Cuba remains uncertain. We undertook a national study in order to characterize the ATXN3 gene and to determine the prevalence of SCA3/MJD in Cuba. Results Twenty-two individuals belonging to 8 non-related families were identified as carriers of an expanded ATXN3 allele. The affected families come from the central and western region of the country. Ataxia of gait was the initial symptom in all of the cases. The normal alleles ranged between 14 and 33 CAG repeats while the expanded ones ranged from 63 to 77 repeats. The mean age at onset was 40 ± 9 years and significantly correlated with the number of CAG repeats in the expanded alleles. Conclusions This disorder was identified as the second most common form of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) in Cuba based on molecular testing, and showing a different geographical distribution from that of SCA2. This research constitutes the first clinical and molecular characterization of Cuban SCA3 families, opening the way for the implementation of predictive diagnosis for at risk family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanetza González-Zaldívar
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Yaimeé Vázquez-Mojena
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - José M Laffita-Mesa
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Luis E Almaguer-Mederos
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Roberto Rodríguez-Labrada
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Gilberto Sánchez-Cruz
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Raúl Aguilera-Rodríguez
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Tania Cruz-Mariño
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Nalia Canales-Ochoa
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
| | - Patrick MacLeod
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pathology, Laboratory Medicine and Medical Genetics, Victoria General Hospital, Victoria, Canada
| | - Luis Velázquez-Pérez
- Centre for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias (CIRAH), Libertad Street 26, Holguín, Postal code 80100 Cuba
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Walsh MJ, Cooper-Knock J, Dodd JE, Stopford MJ, Mihaylov SR, Kirby J, Shaw PJ, Hautbergue GM. Invited review: decoding the pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie RNA dysregulation in neurodegenerative disorders: a review of the current state of the art. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2015; 41:109-34. [PMID: 25319671 PMCID: PMC4329338 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Altered RNA metabolism is a key pathophysiological component causing several neurodegenerative diseases. Genetic mutations causing neurodegeneration occur in coding and noncoding regions of seemingly unrelated genes whose products do not always contribute to the gene expression process. Several pathogenic mechanisms may coexist within a single neuronal cell, including RNA/protein toxic gain-of-function and/or protein loss-of-function. Genetic mutations that cause neurodegenerative disorders disrupt healthy gene expression at diverse levels, from chromatin remodelling, transcription, splicing, through to axonal transport and repeat-associated non-ATG (RAN) translation. We address neurodegeneration in repeat expansion disorders [Huntington's disease, spinocerebellar ataxias, C9ORF72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)] and in diseases caused by deletions or point mutations (spinal muscular atrophy, most subtypes of familial ALS). Some neurodegenerative disorders exhibit broad dysregulation of gene expression with the synthesis of hundreds to thousands of abnormal messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. However, the number and identity of aberrant mRNAs that are translated into proteins - and how these lead to neurodegeneration - remain unknown. The field of RNA biology research faces the challenge of identifying pathophysiological events of dysregulated gene expression. In conclusion, we discuss current research limitations and future directions to improve our characterization of pathological mechanisms that trigger disease onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Walsh
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - J Cooper-Knock
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - J E Dodd
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - M J Stopford
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - S R Mihaylov
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - J Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - P J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
| | - G M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of SheffieldSheffield, UK
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Caenorhabditis elegans Models to Study the Molecular Biology of Ataxias. Mov Disord 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-405195-9.00068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Fancellu R, Paridi D, Tomasello C, Panzeri M, Castaldo A, Genitrini S, Soliveri P, Girotti F. Longitudinal study of cognitive and psychiatric functions in spinocerebellar ataxia types 1 and 2. J Neurol 2014; 260:3134-43. [PMID: 24122064 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-013-7138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The role of the cerebellum in cognition, both in healthy subjects and in patients with cerebellar diseases, is debated. Neuropsychological studies in spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) and type 2 (SCA2) demonstrated impairments in executive functions, verbal memory, and visuospatial performances, but prospective evaluations are not available. Our aims were to assess progression of cognitive and psychiatric functions in patients with SCA1 and SCA2 in a longitudinal study. We evaluated at baseline 20 patients with SCA1, 22 patients with SCA2 and 17 matched controls. Two subgroups of patients (9 SCA1, 11 SCA2) were re-evaluated after 2 years. We tested cognitive functions (Mini Mental State Examination, digit span, Corsi span, verbal memory, attentional matrices, modified Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Raven Progressive Matrices, Benton test, phonemic and semantic fluency), psychiatric status (Scales for Assessment of Negative and Positive Symptoms, Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Scales), neurological conditions (Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia), and functional abilities (Unified Huntington Disease Rating Scale–part IV). At baseline, SCA1 and SCA2 patients had significant deficits compared to controls, mainly in executive functions (phonemic and semantic fluencies, attentional matrices); SCA2 showed further impairment in visuospatial and visuoperceptive tests (Raven matrices, Benton test, Corsi span). Both SCA groups had higher depression and negative symptoms, particularly apathy, compared to controls. After 2 years, motor and functional disability worsened, while only attentive performances deteriorated in SCA2. This longitudinal study showed dissociation in progression of motor disability and cognitive impairment, suggesting that in SCA1 and SCA2 motor and cognitive functions might be involved with different progression rates.
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Wictorin K, Brådvik B, Nilsson K, Soller M, van Westen D, Bynke G, Bauer P, Schöls L, Puschmann A. Autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia with slow ocular saccades, neuropathy and orthostatism: a novel entity? Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2014; 20:748-54. [PMID: 24787759 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2014.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We describe the clinical characteristics of a Swedish family with autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia, sensory and autonomic neuropathy, additional neurological features and unknown genetic cause. METHODS Fourteen affected family members were identified. Their disorder was characterized by neurological examination, MRI, electroneurography, electromyography, MIBG-scintigraphy, and tilt-testing. RESULTS The disorder presented as a balance and gait disturbance starting between 16 and 47 years of age. Cerebellar ataxia progressed slowly over the course of decades, and MRI showed mild to moderate cerebellar atrophy. Sensory axonal polyneuropathy was the most prominent additional feature and occurred in all patients examined. Autonomic neuropathy caused pronounced orthostatic dysregulation in at least four patients. Several affected members showed muscle wasting, and mild upper or lower motor neuron signs were documented. Patients had no nystagmus but slow or hypometric horizontal saccades and ocular motor apraxia. Cognition remained unimpaired, and there were no non-neurological disease manifestations. The disorder affected men and women in successive generations in a pattern compatible with autosomal dominant inheritance without evidence of anticipation. A second family where 7 members had very similar symptoms was identified and its origin traced back to the same village in southern Sweden as that of the first family's ancestors. All relevant known genetic causes of cerebellar ataxia were excluded by a novel next-generation sequencing approach. CONCLUSION We present two probably related Swedish families with a characteristic and novel clinical syndrome of cerebellar ataxia and sensory polyneuropathy. The study serves as a basis for the mapping of the underlying genetic cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klas Wictorin
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden; Department for Neurology, Skåne University Hospital, Sweden
| | - Björn Brådvik
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden; Department for Neurology, Skåne University Hospital, Sweden
| | - Karin Nilsson
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Maria Soller
- Department for Clinical Genetics, Regional and University Laboratories, Lund, Sweden
| | - Danielle van Westen
- Center for Medical Imaging and Physiology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden; Institution for Clinical Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Gunnel Bynke
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Peter Bauer
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ludger Schöls
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Germany; German Research Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Puschmann
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden; Department for Neurology, Skåne University Hospital, Sweden.
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How do C9ORF72 repeat expansions cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia: can we learn from other noncoding repeat expansion disorders? Curr Opin Neurol 2013; 25:689-700. [PMID: 23160421 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0b013e32835a3efb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this review is to describe disease mechanisms by which chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72) repeat expansions could lead to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and to discuss these diseases in relation to other noncoding repeat expansion disorders. RECENT FINDINGS ALS and FTD are complex neurodegenerative disorders with a considerable clinical and pathological overlap, and this overlap is further substantiated by the recent discovery of C9ORF72 repeat expansions. These repeat expansions are currently the most important genetic cause of familial ALS and FTD, accounting for approximately 34.2 and 25.9% of the cases. Clinical phenotypes associated with these repeat expansions are highly variable, and combinations with mutations in other ALS-associated and/or FTD-associated genes may contribute to this pleiotropy. It is challenging, however, to diagnose patients with C9ORF72 expansions, not only because of large repeat sizes, but also due to somatic heterogeneity. Most other noncoding repeat expansion disorders share an RNA gain-of-function disease mechanism, a mechanism that could underlie the development of ALS and/or FTD as well. SUMMARY The discovery of C9ORF72 repeat expansions provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of ALS and FTD and highlights the importance of noncoding repeat expansions and RNA toxicity in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Tranchant C. [Have centers of rare neurological diseases changed their practices and management of the hereditary cerebellar ataxias?]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2013; 169 Suppl 1:S23-7. [PMID: 23452767 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(13)70056-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The classification and management of hereditary cerebellar ataxias have been considerably changed by advances made in the field of genetics. Given the numerous genes implicated in the disorders, genetic analysis, which alone can confirm the diagnosis, needs to be based on phenotypically precise studies. Diagnostic algorithms including both recessive and dominant forms of ataxia have been proposed. The range of disease effects has been further expanded in the light of evidence of ataxias associated with permutations of the Fragile X gene, and ataxias linked to mutations of the nuclear genes coding for structural proteins of mitochondrial DNA. In the field of therapeutics, several studies are currently ongoing for Friedreich's ataxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Tranchant
- Centre de compétence des maladies neurologiques génétiques rares, Service de Neurologie, Hôpital de Hautepierre, avenue Molière, 67100 Strasbourg, France.
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Pulst SM, Otis TS. Repolarization matters: mutations in the Kv4.3 potassium channel cause SCA19/22. Ann Neurol 2013; 72:829-31. [PMID: 23280833 DOI: 10.1002/ana.23803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2012] [Revised: 09/26/2012] [Accepted: 10/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Fujioka S, Sundal C, Wszolek ZK. Autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia type III: a review of the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2013; 8:14. [PMID: 23331413 PMCID: PMC3558377 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-8-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal Dominant Cerebellar Ataxia (ADCA) Type III is a type of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) classically characterized by pure cerebellar ataxia and occasionally by non-cerebellar signs such as pyramidal signs, ophthalmoplegia, and tremor. The onset of symptoms typically occurs in adulthood; however, a minority of patients develop clinical features in adolescence. The incidence of ADCA Type III is unknown. ADCA Type III consists of six subtypes, SCA5, SCA6, SCA11, SCA26, SCA30, and SCA31. The subtype SCA6 is the most common. These subtypes are associated with four causative genes and two loci. The severity of symptoms and age of onset can vary between each SCA subtype and even between families with the same subtype. SCA5 and SCA11 are caused by specific gene mutations such as missense, inframe deletions, and frameshift insertions or deletions. SCA6 is caused by trinucleotide CAG repeat expansions encoding large uninterrupted glutamine tracts. SCA31 is caused by repeat expansions that fall outside of the protein-coding region of the disease gene. Currently, there are no specific gene mutations associated with SCA26 or SCA30, though there is a confirmed locus for each subtype. This disease is mainly diagnosed via genetic testing; however, differential diagnoses include pure cerebellar ataxia and non-cerebellar features in addition to ataxia. Although not fatal, ADCA Type III may cause dysphagia and falls, which reduce the quality of life of the patients and may in turn shorten the lifespan. The therapy for ADCA Type III is supportive and includes occupational and speech modalities. There is no cure for ADCA Type III, but a number of recent studies have highlighted novel therapies, which bring hope for future curative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinsuke Fujioka
- Department of Neurology at Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road Cannaday Bldg 2-E, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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Zhang B, Li L, Chen L, Huang J. Clinical manifestations and gene mutation in a case of Machado-Joseph disease. Neural Regen Res 2012; 7:2842-7. [PMID: 25317135 PMCID: PMC4190867 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.35.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports a case of a 75-year-old female Machado-Joseph disease patient exhibiting unstable walking and inaccurate hand holding for 8 months, which progressively worsened. Physical examination on admission showed cerebellar ataxia and a history of hypertension. Cranial MRI demonstrated cerebellar and brain stem atrophy. Gene analysis showed abnormal amplification of the CAG trinucleotide repeat in exon 10 of the ataxin-3 (ATXN3) gene, resulting in 70-81 CAG repeats in the patient, with a significant positive family history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Branch Hospital in Fengxian of Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Neurological Research Institute of Anhui University of Science & Technology, the Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Liru Li
- Department of Emergency, Branch Hospital in Fengxian of Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Neurological Research Institute of Anhui University of Science & Technology, the Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Longxing Chen
- Department of Radiology, Branch Hospital in Fengxian of Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Neurological Research Institute of Anhui University of Science & Technology, the Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Neurology, Branch Hospital in Fengxian of Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Neurological Research Institute of Anhui University of Science & Technology, the Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 201499, China,
Corresponding author: Jie Huang, Department of Neurology, Branch Hospital in Fengxian of Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Neurological Research Institute of Anhui University of Science & Technology, the Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 201499, China . (N20120215001/WLM)
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Liu YT, Tang BS, Wang JL, Guan WJ, Shen L, Shi YT, Zhou Y, Yan XX, Xia K, Jiang H. Spinocerebellar ataxia type 23 is an uncommon SCA subtype in the Chinese Han population. Neurosci Lett 2012; 528:51-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.08.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2012] [Revised: 07/26/2012] [Accepted: 08/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Di Fabio R, Santorelli F, Bertini E, Balestri M, Cursi L, Tessa A, Pierelli F, Casali C. Infantile childhood onset of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2. THE CEREBELLUM 2012; 11:526-30. [PMID: 21975856 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-011-0315-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is a late-onset autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia caused by triplet CAG/CTG expansion in the ATX2 gene. The initial symptoms usually appear when subjects are in their 30s.Pediatric onset is less common and usually associated with larger triplet expansions. We here report the case of a 1-year-old girl who presented with facial dysmorphism,dystonic features, developmental delay, and retinitis pigmentosa.She was diagnosed as carrying an expanded CAG/CTG tract (92 repeats) before a molecular diagnosis of SCA2 was made in her father. Facial dysmorphism associated with developmental delay and retinitis pigmentosa in early childhood should prompt a careful family investigation for ataxia and study of ATX2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Di Fabio
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Francesco Faggiana 34, Latina, Italy.
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Pathogenic Role of UPR (Unfolded Protein Response) Among Hereditary Leukoencephalopathy and Neurodegenerative Disorders After Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress*. PROG BIOCHEM BIOPHYS 2012. [DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1206.2012.00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Fujioka S, Wszolek ZK. Update on genetics of parkinsonism. NEURODEGENER DIS 2012; 10:257-60. [PMID: 22261420 DOI: 10.1159/000334285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major progress in genetic studies of Parkinson's disease (PD) and parkinsonism has been achieved in the last two decades. OBJECTIVE We provide a brief review of the current status of PARK and non-PARK loci/genes, and discuss two new genes: eIF4G1 and VPS35. METHODS The literature on PARK and non-PARK loci/genes was reviewed and some novel information on two new genes is provided. RESULTS There are 18 PARK loci. The symptomatic carriers of these genes usually present with parkinsonism, although additional clinical features can be seen during the course of the disease. Carriers of non-PARK loci/genes frequently present with a mixed phenotype that includes parkinsonism and additional clinical features. Carriers of the eIF4G1 and VPS35 genes present with a parkinsonian phenotype. The pathology of eIF4G1 is of the α-synuclein type; the pathology of VPS35 is unknown. CONCLUSION The current genetic classification of PD/parkinsonism genes is not ideal. The pathological classification based on the accumulation of particular proteins/inclusions is also misleading since there are kindred with a single mutation but pleomorphic pathology. A better classification of neurodegenerative conditions is needed. It is hoped that the genetic studies will lead to better therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinsuke Fujioka
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, Fla 32224, USA
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