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Cubiró X, Garcia-Melendo C, Morales-Munera CE, Riera-Mestre A, Torres-Iglesias R, Villanueva B, Puig L, Baselga E. Comparative Treatment of Mucocutaneous Lesions in Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia Patients With Dual Sequential Pulsed Dye Laser and Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet Versus Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet Laser Alone: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study With Quality-of-Life Evaluation. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2024; 115:246-257. [PMID: 37913989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is characterized by the presence of telangiectases and larger arteriovenous malformations in different organs. Mucocutaneous telangiectases can bleed and become an aesthetic concern, impairing quality of life (QoL). However, the best treatment approach has not been defined yet. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dual wavelength sequential 595/1064nm laser (DWSL) compared to 1064nm laser (Nd:YAG) alone. Secondarily, to evaluate QoL impairment in HHT patients, and its improvement with laser therapy. METHODS A comparative randomized split-body double-blinded prospective study (DWSL vs Nd:YAG). Demographic, clinical and treatment characteristics were recorded. The severity and degree of improvement were evaluated by three blinded examiners who scored pre-treatment and post-treatment pictures on a 5-point scale. Patients fulfilled Skindex-29 and FACE-Q® tests and assessed procedure-associated pain and patient satisfaction. RESULTS 111 treatment areas (55 treated with DWSL and 56 with Nd:YAG) from 26 patients were analyzed. The median number of laser sessions was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 2-4; mean 2.90 vs 2.88, respectively). The median improvement score, irrespective of location, was significantly higher for Nd:YAG compared to DWSL: 3 (IQR 2-3; mean 2.61) vs 2 (IQR 2-3; mean 2.32), p=0.031. Both FACE-Q index and Skindex-29 test results improved significantly (p<0.001), and 92.4% patients reported a high degree of satisfaction (≥8). No severe adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS DWSL and Nd:YAG laser are convenient, safe and effective treatment options for mucocutaneous telangiectases in HHT patients. However, Nd:YAG delivered better results with better tolerability. QoL was significantly improved by both treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Cubiró
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Mollet, Mollet del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - C Garcia-Melendo
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Dermatology, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C E Morales-Munera
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Riera-Mestre
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Torres-Iglesias
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Villanueva
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Puig
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Baselga
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Dermatology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Cubiró X, Garcia-Melendo C, Morales-Munera CE, Riera-Mestre A, Torres-Iglesias R, Villanueva B, Puig L, Baselga E. Comparative Treatment of Mucocutaneous Lesions in Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia Patients With Dual Sequential Pulsed Dye Laser and Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet Versus Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet Laser Alone: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study With Quality-of-Life Evaluation. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2024; 115:T246-T257. [PMID: 38185205 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is characterized by the presence of telangiectases and larger arteriovenous malformations in different organs. Mucocutaneous telangiectases can bleed and become an aesthetic concern, impairing quality of life (QoL). However, the best treatment approach has not been defined yet. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dual wavelength sequential 595/1064nm laser (DWSL) compared to 1064nm laser (Nd:YAG) alone. Secondarily, to evaluate QoL impairment in HHT patients, and its improvement with laser therapy. METHODS A comparative randomized split-body double-blinded prospective study (DWSL vs Nd:YAG). Demographic, clinical and treatment characteristics were recorded. The severity and degree of improvement were evaluated by three blinded examiners who scored pre-treatment and post-treatment pictures on a 5-point scale. Patients fulfilled Skindex-29 and FACE-Q® tests and assessed procedure-associated pain and patient satisfaction. RESULTS 111 treatment areas (55 treated with DWSL and 56 with Nd:YAG) from 26 patients were analyzed. The median number of laser sessions was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 2-4; mean 2.90 vs 2.88, respectively). The median improvement score, irrespective of location, was significantly higher for Nd:YAG compared to DWSL: 3 (IQR 2-3; mean 2.61) vs 2 (IQR 2-3; mean 2.32), p=0.031. Both FACE-Q index and Skindex-29 test results improved significantly (p<0.001), and 92.4% patients reported a high degree of satisfaction (≥8). No severe adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS DWSL and Nd:YAG laser are convenient, safe and effective treatment options for mucocutaneous telangiectases in HHT patients. However, Nd:YAG delivered better results with better tolerability. QoL was significantly improved by both treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Cubiró
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Mollet, Mollet del Vallès, Barcelona, España.
| | - C Garcia-Melendo
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Department of Dermatology, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa, Terrassa, Barcelona, España
| | - C E Morales-Munera
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - A Riera-Mestre
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - R Torres-Iglesias
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España
| | - B Villanueva
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, España
| | - L Puig
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - E Baselga
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, España; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Department of Dermatology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, España
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Jain K, McCarley SC, Mukhtar G, Ferlin A, Fleming A, Morris-Rosendahl DJ, Shovlin CL. Pathogenic Variant Frequencies in Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia Support Clinical Evidence of Protection from Myocardial Infarction. J Clin Med 2023; 13:250. [PMID: 38202257 PMCID: PMC10779873 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010250] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a vascular dysplasia inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, due to a single heterozygous loss-of-function variant, usually in ACVRL1 (encoding activin receptor-like kinase 1 [ALK1]), ENG (encoding endoglin [CD105]), or SMAD4. In a consecutive single-centre series of 37 positive clinical genetic tests performed in 2021-2023, a skewed distribution pattern was noted, with 30 of 32 variants reported only once, but ACVRL1 c.1231C>T (p.Arg411Trp) identified as the disease-causal gene in five different HHT families. In the same centre's non-overlapping 1992-2020 series where 110/134 (82.1%) HHT-causal variants were reported only once, ACVRL1 c.1231C>T (p.Arg411Trp) was identified in nine further families. In a 14-country, four-continent HHT Mutation Database where 181/250 (72.4%) HHT-causal variants were reported only once, ACVRL1 c.1231C>T (p.Arg411Trp) was reported by 12 different laboratories, the adjacent ACVRL1 c.1232G>A (p.Arg411Gln) by 14, and ACVRL1 c.1120C>T (p.Arg374Trp) by 18. Unlike the majority of HHT-causal ACVRL1 variants, these encode ALK1 protein that reaches the endothelial cell surface but fails to signal. Six variants of this type were present in the three series and were reported 6.8-25.5 (mean 8.9) times more frequently than the other ACVRL1 missense variants (all p-values < 0.0039). Noting lower rates of myocardial infarction reported in HHT, we explore potential mechanisms, including a selective paradigm relevant to ALK1's role in the initiating event of atherosclerosis, where a plausible dominant negative effect of these specific variants can be proposed. In conclusion, there is an ~9-fold excess of kinase-inactive, cell surface-expressed ACVRL1/ALK1 pathogenic missense variants in HHT. The findings support further examination of differential clinical and cellular phenotypes by HHT causal gene molecular subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinshuk Jain
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (K.J.); (S.C.M.); (G.M.); (D.J.M.-R.)
| | - Sarah C. McCarley
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (K.J.); (S.C.M.); (G.M.); (D.J.M.-R.)
| | - Ghazel Mukhtar
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (K.J.); (S.C.M.); (G.M.); (D.J.M.-R.)
| | - Anna Ferlin
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics Laboratory, Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (A.F.); (A.F.)
| | - Andrew Fleming
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics Laboratory, Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (A.F.); (A.F.)
| | - Deborah J. Morris-Rosendahl
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (K.J.); (S.C.M.); (G.M.); (D.J.M.-R.)
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics Laboratory, Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, London SE1 7EH, UK; (A.F.); (A.F.)
| | - Claire L. Shovlin
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (K.J.); (S.C.M.); (G.M.); (D.J.M.-R.)
- Specialist Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 0HS, UK
- Social, Genetic and Environmental Determinants of Health, NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London W2 1NY, UK
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McCarley SC, Murphy DA, Thompson J, Shovlin CL. Pharmacogenomic Considerations for Anticoagulant Prescription in Patients with Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7710. [PMID: 38137783 PMCID: PMC10744266 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a vascular dysplasia that commonly results in bleeding but with frequent indications for therapeutic anticoagulation. Our aims were to advance the understanding of drug-specific intolerance and evaluate if there was an indication for pharmacogenomic testing. Genes encoding proteins involved in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of warfarin, heparin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) apixaban, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and dabigatran were identified and examined. Linkage disequilibrium with HHT genes was excluded, before variants within these genes were examined following whole genome sequencing of general and HHT populations. The 44 genes identified included 5/17 actionable pharmacogenes with guidelines. The 76,156 participants in the Genome Aggregation Database v3.1.2 had 28,446 variants, including 9668 missense substitutions and 1076 predicted loss-of-function (frameshift, nonsense, and consensus splice site) variants, i.e., approximately 1 in 7.9 individuals had a missense substitution, and 1 in 71 had a loss-of-function variant. Focusing on the 17 genes relevant to usually preferred DOACs, similar variant profiles were identified in HHT patients. With HHT patients at particular risk of haemorrhage when undergoing anticoagulant treatment, we explore how pre-emptive pharmacogenomic testing, alongside HHT gene testing, may prove beneficial in reducing the risk of bleeding and conclude that HHT patients are well placed to be at the vanguard of personalised prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C. McCarley
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (S.C.M.); (J.T.)
| | - Daniel A. Murphy
- Pharmacy Department, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W2 1NY, UK;
- Social, Genetic and Envionmental Determinants of Health Theme, NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London W2 1NY, UK
| | - Jack Thompson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (S.C.M.); (J.T.)
| | - Claire L. Shovlin
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (S.C.M.); (J.T.)
- Social, Genetic and Envionmental Determinants of Health Theme, NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London W2 1NY, UK
- Specialist Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London W12 0HS, UK
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Wu JL, Zhao ZZ, Chen J, Zhang HW, Luan Z, Li CY, Zhao YM, Jing YJ, Wang SF, Sun G. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia involving portal venous system: A case report and review of the literature. World J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 15:2367-2375. [PMID: 37969701 PMCID: PMC10642469 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i10.2367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder with an incidence of approximately 1 in 5000 in the general population. It is characterized by vasodilation, which affects specific organs, such as the skin, mucous membranes, brain, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver, and others. However, HHT rarely involves the portal venous system to cause serious clinical complications. CASE SUMMARY A 68-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department due to four consecutive days of abdominal pain and bloody stool and was subsequently diagnosed with HHT. Computed tomography angiography confirmed the presence of an arteriovenous fistula (AVFs). Considering this specific manifestation, whole exome sequencing was performed. After a comprehensive evaluation, a selective superior mesenteric artery embolization was prioritized to avoid intestinal ischemia. The postoperative symptoms of the patient were quickly relieved. Unfortunately, two months post-procedure the patient died from intestinal necrosis and abdominal infection related to remaining AVFs. CONCLUSION For patients with diffuse superior mesenteric AVFs, selective mesenteric arterial embolization may lead to positive short-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ling Wu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Zhi-Zhuang Zhao
- Department of Geriatrics, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Han-Wen Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Zhe Luan
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Cong-Yong Li
- Department of Sixth Health Care, Second Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yi-Ming Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hainan Hospital of PLA General Hospital, Sanya 572013, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yu-Jia Jing
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Shu-Fang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Gang Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
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Villanueva B, Cerdà P, Torres-Iglesias R, Rocamora JL, Figueras A, Viñals F, Riera-Mestre A. Potential angiogenic biomarkers in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and other vascular diseases. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 115:10-17. [PMID: 37225595 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Biomarkers are new tools framed in precision and personalized medicine. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare genetic vascular disease with disturbances in the angiogenic pathways. Descriptive evidence supports that some angiogenesis-related molecules are differently detected in HHT patients compared to healthy subjects. These molecules are also related to diagnosis, prognosis, complications and therapy monitoring in other common vascular diseases. Despite the need for improving knowledge before applying them in daily clinical practice, there are good candidates to be considered as potential biomarkers in HHT and other vascular diseases. In the present review, the authors aim to summarize and discuss current evidence regarding the main putative angiogenic biomarkers by describing the biological role of each biomarker, the evidence related to HHT and their potential use in this and other common vascular diseases from a clinical point-of-view.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Villanueva
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Cerdà
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Torres-Iglesias
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J L Rocamora
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Figueras
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance, Institut Catala d'Oncologia, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain; Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Viñals
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance, Institut Catala d'Oncologia, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona, Spain; Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Riera-Mestre
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Villanueva B, Iriarte A, Torres-Iglesias R, Muñoz Bolaño M, Cerdà P, Riera-Mestre A. Aflibercept for Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: A Case Report. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1533. [PMID: 37763652 PMCID: PMC10534796 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we present the first described hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) patient treated with aflibercept for severe GI involvement after tachyphylaxis to bevacizumab, with promising results. HHT is a rare genetic disease characterized by systemic vascular malformations. Gastrointestinal telangiectasia is one of the major involvements that can produce chronic severe iron-deficiency anemia. Nowadays, support treatment with iron replacement therapy, red blood cell transfusions, and antiangiogenic drugs-mainly bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-are the main therapeutic options for this complication. The evidence of alternative drugs in patients with failure to this approach, such as tachyphylaxis to bevacizumab, is scarce. Aflibercept is a VEGF inhibitor with antiangiogenic properties approved for the treatment of different types of cancer and ocular neovascularization diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernat Villanueva
- HHT Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain; (B.V.); (A.I.); (R.T.-I.); (P.C.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adriana Iriarte
- HHT Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain; (B.V.); (A.I.); (R.T.-I.); (P.C.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Torres-Iglesias
- HHT Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain; (B.V.); (A.I.); (R.T.-I.); (P.C.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Muñoz Bolaño
- Pharmacist Department, Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Pau Cerdà
- HHT Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain; (B.V.); (A.I.); (R.T.-I.); (P.C.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Riera-Mestre
- HHT Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain; (B.V.); (A.I.); (R.T.-I.); (P.C.)
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
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Ielasi L, Tonnini M, Piscaglia F, Serio I. Current guidelines for diagnosis and management of hepatic involvement in hereditary hemorrhagic teleangiectasia. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:675-687. [PMID: 37305373 PMCID: PMC10251273 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i5.675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic teleangiectasia (HHT), also known as Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome, is the most common cause of hepatic vascular malformations in adults. Different vascular shunts (arteriovenous, arterioportal or portovenous) lead to different clinical manifestations. Even though no hepatic-related symptoms are reported in the majority of cases, the severity of liver disease could lead to refractory medical conditions, in some cases requiring liver transplantation. The aim of this manuscript is to provide an updated overview of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and treatment of HHT liver involvement and liver-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Ielasi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ospedale per gli Infermi di Faenza, Faenza 48018, Italy
| | - Matteo Tonnini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Fabio Piscaglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Ilaria Serio
- Division of Internal Medicine, Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
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9
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Aguilera C, Padró-Miquel A, Esteve-Garcia A, Cerdà P, Torres-Iglesias R, Llecha N, Riera-Mestre A. Improving Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Molecular Diagnosis: A Referral Center Experience. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030772. [PMID: 36981042 PMCID: PMC10048779 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare vascular disease inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Disease-causing variants in endoglin (ENG) and activin A receptor type II-like 1 (ACVRL1) genes are detected in more than 90% of the patients undergoing molecular testing. The identification of variants of unknown significance is often seen as a challenge in clinical practice that makes family screening and genetic counseling difficult. Here, we show that the implementation of cDNA analysis to assess the effect of splice site variants on mRNA splicing is a powerful tool. METHODS Gene panel sequencing of genes associated with HHT and other arteriovenous malformation-related syndromes was performed. To evaluate the effect of the splice site variants, cDNA analysis of ENG and ACVRL1 genes was carried out. RESULTS three novel splice site variants were identified in ENG (c.68-2A > T and c.1311+4_1311+8del) and ACVLR1 (c.526-6C > G) genes correspondingly in three individuals with HHT that met ≥ 3 Curaçao criteria. All three variants led to an aberrant splicing inducing exon skipping (ENG:c.68-2A > T and ACVRL1:c.526-6C > G) or intron retention (ENG:c.1311+4_1311+8del) allowing the confirmation of the predicted effect on splicing and the reclassification from unknown significance to pathogenic/likely pathogenic of two of them. CONCLUSIONS RNA analysis should be performed to assess and/or confirm the impact of variants on splicing. The molecular diagnosis of HHT patients is crucial to allow family screening and accurate genetic counseling. A multidisciplinary approach including clinicians and geneticists is crucial when dealing with patients with rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia Aguilera
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Genetics Laboratory, Laboratori Clínic Territorial Metropolitana Sud, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Ariadna Padró-Miquel
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Genetics Laboratory, Laboratori Clínic Territorial Metropolitana Sud, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Anna Esteve-Garcia
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Laboratori Clínic Territorial Metropolitana Sud, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Pau Cerdà
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Raquel Torres-Iglesias
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Núria Llecha
- Genetics Laboratory, Laboratori Clínic Territorial Metropolitana Sud, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Clinical Genetics Unit, Laboratori Clínic Territorial Metropolitana Sud, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Antoni Riera-Mestre
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
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10
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Cannavicci A, Zhang Q, Kutryk MJB. The Potential Role of MiRs-139-5p and -454-3p in Endoglin-Knockdown-Induced Angiogenic Dysfunction in HUVECs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054916. [PMID: 36902347 PMCID: PMC10003543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare genetic disease characterized by aberrant angiogenesis and vascular malformations. Mutations in the transforming growth factor beta co-receptor, endoglin (ENG), account for approximately half of known HHT cases and cause abnormal angiogenic activity in endothelial cells (ECs). To date, how ENG deficiency contributes to EC dysfunction remains to be fully understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate virtually every cellular process. We hypothesized that ENG depletion results in miRNA dysregulation that plays an important role in mediating EC dysfunction. Our goal was to test the hypothesis by identifying dysregulated miRNAs in ENG-knockdown human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and characterizing their potential role in EC function. We identified 32 potentially downregulated miRNAs in ENG-knockdown HUVECs with a TaqMan miRNA microarray. MiRs-139-5p and -454-3p were found to be significantly downregulated after RT-qPCR validation. While the inhibition of miR-139-5p or miR-454-3p had no effect on HUVEC viability, proliferation or apoptosis, angiogenic capacity was significantly compromised as determined by a tube formation assay. Most notably, the overexpression of miRs-139-5p and -454-3p rescued impaired tube formation in HUVECs with ENG knockdown. To our knowledge, we are the first to demonstrate miRNA alterations after the knockdown of ENG in HUVECs. Our results indicate a potential role of miRs-139-5p and -454-3p in ENG-deficiency-induced angiogenic dysfunction in ECs. Further study to examine the involvement of miRs-139-5p and -454-3p in HHT pathogenesis is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Cannavicci
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Qiuwang Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Michael J. B. Kutryk
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(416)-360-4000 (ext. 6155)
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11
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Genetics of brain arteriovenous malformations and cerebral cavernous malformations. J Hum Genet 2023; 68:157-167. [PMID: 35831630 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-022-01063-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cerebrovascular malformations comprise abnormal development of cerebral vasculature. They can result in hemorrhagic stroke due to rupture of lesions as well as seizures and neurological defects. The most common forms of cerebrovascular malformations are brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) and cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). They occur in both sporadic and inherited forms. Rapidly evolving molecular genetic methodologies have helped to identify causative or associated genes involved in genesis of bAVMs and CCMs. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge regarding the genetic basis of these malformations.
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12
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Perioperative Complications and Long-Term Follow-Up of Liver Transplantation in Hemorrhagic Hereditary Telangiectasia: Report of Three Cases and Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195624. [PMID: 36233492 PMCID: PMC9573297 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195624] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to describe three patients with hemorrhagic hereditary telangiectasia (HHT) requiring liver transplantation (LT) and to perform a systematic review focusing on surgical complications and long-term follow-up. Unrestricted searches of the Medline and Embase databases were performed through February 2022. Forty-five studies were selected including 80 patients plus the three new reported patients, 68 (81.9%) were female and mean age was 50 (27–72) years. Main indications for LT were high-output cardiac failure (n = 40; 48.2%), ischemic cholangitis (n = 19; 22.9%), and a combination of both conditions (n = 13;15.6%). Mean cold ischemic time and red blood cell units transfused during LT were 554 (300–941) minutes and 11.4 (0–88) units, respectively. Complications within 30 days were described in 28 (33.7%) patients, mainly bleeding complications in 13 patients, hepatic artery (HA) thrombosis in four and hepatic vein thrombosis in one. Mean follow-up was 76.4 (1–288) months, and during it, four new patients developed thrombotic complications in HA, HA aneurysm, celiac artery, and the portal–splenic–mesenteric vein. HHT relapse in the transplant allograft was detected in 13 (17.1%) patients after 1–19 years (including two fatal recurrences). Overall mortality was 12%. In conclusion, previous assessment of HA anatomy and hyperdynamic circulatory state could reduce LT complications. The risk of relapse in the hepatic graft supports a multidisciplinary follow-up for HHT patients with LT.
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13
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Viteri-Noël A, González-García A, Patier JL, Fabregate M, Bara-Ledesma N, López-Rodríguez M, Gómez del Olmo V, Manzano L. Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: Genetics, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11175245. [PMID: 36079173 PMCID: PMC9457069 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11175245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is an inherited disease related to an alteration in angiogenesis, manifesting as cutaneous telangiectasias and epistaxis. As complications, it presents vascular malformations in organs such as the lung, liver, digestive tract, and brain. Currently, diagnosis can be made using the Curaçao criteria or by identifying the affected gene. In recent years, there has been an advance in the understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, which has allowed the use of new therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life of patients. This article reviews some of the main and most current evidence on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, screening for complications, and therapeutic options, both pharmacological and surgical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Viteri-Noël
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrés González-García
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - José Luis Patier
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Martin Fabregate
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Bara-Ledesma
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica López-Rodríguez
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Vicente Gómez del Olmo
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Manzano
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá (UAH), 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
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14
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Gaetani E, Peppucci E, Agostini F, Di Martino L, Lucci Cordisco E, Sturiale CL, Puca A, Porfidia A, Alexandre A, Pedicelli A, Pola R. Distribution of Cerebrovascular Phenotypes According to Variants of the ENG and ACVRL1 Genes in Subjects with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102685. [PMID: 35628811 PMCID: PMC9146077 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused, in more than 80% of cases, by mutations of either the endoglin (ENG) or the activin A receptor-like type 1 (ACVRL1) gene. Several hundred variants have been identified in these HHT-causing genes, including deletions, missense and nonsense mutations, splice defects, duplications, and insertions. In this study, we have analyzed retrospectively collected images of magnetic resonance angiographies (MRA) of the brain of HHT patients, followed at the HHT Center of our University Hospital, and looked for the distribution of cerebrovascular phenotypes according to specific gene variants. We found that cerebrovascular malformations were heterogeneous among HHT patients, with phenotypes that ranged from classical arteriovenous malformations (AVM) to intracranial aneurysms (IA), developmental venous anomalies (DVA), and cavernous angiomas (CA). There was also wide heterogeneity among the variants of the ENG and ACVRL1 genes, which included known pathogenic variants, variants of unknown significance, variants pending classification, and variants which had not been previously reported. The percentage of patients with cerebrovascular malformations was significantly higher among subjects with ENG variants than ACVRL1 variants (25.0% vs. 13.1%, p < 0.05). The prevalence of neurovascular anomalies was different among subjects with different gene variants, with an incidence that ranged from 3.3% among subjects with the c.1231C > T, c.200G > A, or c.1120C > T missense mutations of the ACVRL1 gene, to 75.0% among subjects with the c.1435C > T missense mutation of the ACVRL1 gene. Further studies and larger sample sizes are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Gaetani
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Elisabetta Peppucci
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Agostini
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Di Martino
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Lucci Cordisco
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Genetics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo L. Sturiale
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Puca
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Porfidia
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Alexandre
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pedicelli
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Pola
- HHT Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (F.A.); (L.D.M.); (E.L.C.); (C.L.S.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (R.P.)
- Department of Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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MicroRNA-132-3p, Downregulated in Myeloid Angiogenic Cells from Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Patients, Is Enriched in the TGFβ and PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathways. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040665. [PMID: 35456471 PMCID: PMC9027908 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare, autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by life-threatening vascular dysplasia. Myeloid angiogenic cells (MACs), alternatively called early endothelial progenitor cells or circulating angiogenic cells, do not directly incorporate into developing blood vessels, but augment angiogenesis in a paracrine manner. MAC dysfunction has been reported in HHT. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate cellular function by modulating gene expression post-transcriptionally. To date, the role of miRNAs in HHT MAC dysfunction has not been documented. Objective. The goal of this study was to comparatively profile miRNAs in HHT patient and control MACs to identify dysregulated miRNAs that may be responsible for the observed MAC dysfunction in HHT. Methodology/Results. Twenty-three dysregulated miRNAs (twenty-one upregulated and two downregulated) in HHT MACs were identified with a TaqMan miRNA microarray. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that the dysregulated miRNAs were significantly enriched in pathways involved in HHT pathogenesis, such as the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), and Hippo signalling pathways. Furthermore, miR-132-3p was determined to be significantly reduced in HHT MACs compared with controls by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Bioinformatic analysis revealed that miR-132-3p is significantly enriched in the TGFβ and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways, targeting SMAD4, an effector of the TGFβ signalling pathway and RASA1, a negative regulator of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, respectively. Conclusion. MiRNA dysregulation, specifically reduced expression of miR-132-3p, in HHT MACs was identified. The dysregulated miRNAs are significantly enriched in the TGFβ, PI3K/AKT, and Hippo signalling pathways. These data suggest that alteration in miRNA expression may impair these pathways and contribute to MAC dysfunction in HHT.
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16
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García-Sanmartín J, Narro-Íñiguez J, Rodríguez-Barbero A, Martínez A. Endoglin and Activin Receptor-like Kinase 1 (Alk1) Modify Adrenomedullin Expression in an Organ-Specific Manner in Mice. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030358. [PMID: 35336733 PMCID: PMC8945164 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is called a rare disease because it affects relatively few people. It is characterized by malformations in some blood vessels and usually results in profuse nose bleedings. In a recent article, we found that these patients have higher levels of adrenomedullin (AM), a molecule with cardiovascular activities, than healthy people. Thus we wanted to know whether the mutations that cause the HHT disease are directly responsible for these higher levels of AM. To investigate this issue, we used mutant mice, which express lower levels of the genes involved in the disease (called Eng and Acvrl1), and measured how much AM was found in different tissues. Although we expected a higher amount of AM in all organs, that was not the case. Some organs showed no variation, some had lower levels of AM than normal mice (fat, skin, and adrenals), and others had a higher expression (cerebellum and colon). Interestingly, our results suggest that these genes and the related molecule BMP-9 may have novel functions, which have not been yet investigated, which may shed more light on the physiopathology of HHT. Abstract Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare disease characterized by vascular malformations and profuse bleeding. The disease is caused by mutations in the components of the BMP-9 receptor: endoglin (ENG) and activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ACVRL1) genes. Recently, we reported that HHT patients expressed higher serum levels of adrenomedullin (AM) than healthy volunteers; thus, we studied the expression of AM (by enzyme immunoassay, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting) in mice deficient in either one of the receptor components to investigate whether these defects may be the cause of that elevated AM in patients. We found that AM expression is not affected by these mutations in a consistent pattern. On the contrary, in some organs (blood, lungs, stomach, pancreas, heart, kidneys, ovaries, brain cortex, hippocampus, foot skin, and microvessels), there were no significant changes, whereas in others we found either a reduced expression (fat, skin, and adrenals) or an enhanced production of AM (cerebellum and colon). These results contradict our initial hypothesis that the increased AM expression found in HHT patients may be due directly to the mutations, but open intriguing questions about the potential phenotypic manifestations of Eng and Acvrl1 mutants that have not yet been studied and that may offer, in the future, a new focus for research on HHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josune García-Sanmartín
- Angiogenesis Unit, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), 26006 Logrono, Spain; (J.G.-S.); (J.N.-Í.)
| | - Judit Narro-Íñiguez
- Angiogenesis Unit, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), 26006 Logrono, Spain; (J.G.-S.); (J.N.-Í.)
| | - Alicia Rodríguez-Barbero
- Vascular Endothelium Pathophysiology (ENDOVAS) Unit, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
- Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Alfredo Martínez
- Angiogenesis Unit, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), 26006 Logrono, Spain; (J.G.-S.); (J.N.-Í.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-941278775
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17
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Medina-Jover F, Riera-Mestre A, Viñals F. Rethinking growth factors: the case of BMP9 during vessel maturation. VASCULAR BIOLOGY (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 4:R1-R14. [PMID: 35350597 PMCID: PMC8942324 DOI: 10.1530/vb-21-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is an essential process for correct development and physiology. This mechanism is tightly regulated by many signals that activate several pathways, which are constantly interacting with each other. There is mounting evidence that BMP9/ALK1 pathway is essential for a correct vessel maturation. Alterations in this pathway lead to the development of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasias. However, little was known about the BMP9 signalling cascade until the last years. Recent reports have shown that while BMP9 arrests cell cycle, it promotes the activation of anabolic pathways to enhance endothelial maturation. In light of this evidence, a new criterion for the classification of cytokines is proposed here, based on the physiological objective of the activation of anabolic routes. Whether this activation by a growth factor is needed to sustain mitosis or to promote a specific function such as matrix formation is a critical characteristic that needs to be considered to classify growth factors. Hence, the state-of-the-art of BMP9/ALK1 signalling is reviewed here, as well as its implications in normal and pathogenic angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Medina-Jover
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Institut Català d’Oncologia, Hospital Duran i Reynals, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapy in Oncology Program (Oncobell), Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut (Campus de Bellvitge), Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Riera-Mestre
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Viñals
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Institut Català d’Oncologia, Hospital Duran i Reynals, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapy in Oncology Program (Oncobell), Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut (Campus de Bellvitge), Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Riera-Mestre A, Cerdà P, Iriarte A, Graupera M, Viñals F. Translational medicine in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Eur J Intern Med 2022; 95:32-37. [PMID: 34538686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Scientific community have gained lots of new insights in the genetic and biochemical background of different conditions, rare diseases included, settling the basis for preclinical models that are helping to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Translational Medicine (TM) is an interdisciplinary area of biomedicine with an essential role in bench-to-bedside transition enhancement, generating a circular flow of knowledge transference between research environment and clinical setting, always centered in patient needs. Here, we present different tools used in TM and an overview of what is being done related to hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), as a disease's model. This work is focused on how this combination of basic and clinical research impacts in HHT patient's daily clinical management and also looking into the future. Further randomized clinical trials with HHT patients should assess the findings of this bench-to-bedside transition. The benefits of this basic and clinical research combination, may not only be important for HHT patients but for patients with other vascular diseases sharing angiogenic disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Riera-Mestre
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, C/ Feixa Llarga s/n., L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - P Cerdà
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, C/ Feixa Llarga s/n., L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Iriarte
- HHT Unit. Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari Bellvitge, C/ Feixa Llarga s/n., L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Graupera
- Endothelial Pathobiology and Microenvironment, Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona 08916, Spain; CIBERONC, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Viñals
- Physiological Sciences Department. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Institut Catala d'Oncologia, Barcelona, Spain; Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
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19
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Las enfermedades minoritarias en España: una mirada hacia adelante. Med Clin (Barc) 2022; 158:274-276. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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20
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Major T, Bereczky Z, Gindele R, Balogh G, Rácz B, Bora L, Kézsmárki Z, Brúgós B, Pfliegler G. Current Status of Clinical and Genetic Screening of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Families in Hungary. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10173774. [PMID: 34501220 PMCID: PMC8432115 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Major
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Kenézy Gyula Campus, University of Debrecen Medical Center, University of Debrecen, H-4031 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Correspondence: (T.M.); (Z.B.); Tel.: +36-52-511777 (ext. 1756) (T.M.); +36-52-431956 (Z.B.); Fax: +36-52-511755 (T.M.); +36-52-340011 (Z.B.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Bereczky
- Division of Clinical Laboratory Science, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.G.); (G.B.)
- Correspondence: (T.M.); (Z.B.); Tel.: +36-52-511777 (ext. 1756) (T.M.); +36-52-431956 (Z.B.); Fax: +36-52-511755 (T.M.); +36-52-340011 (Z.B.)
| | - Réka Gindele
- Division of Clinical Laboratory Science, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.G.); (G.B.)
| | - Gábor Balogh
- Division of Clinical Laboratory Science, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.G.); (G.B.)
| | - Benedek Rácz
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Kenézy Gyula Campus, University of Debrecen Medical Center, University of Debrecen, H-4031 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Division of Clinical Laboratory Science, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.G.); (G.B.)
| | - László Bora
- Department of Radiology, Szent Lázár County Hospital, H-3100 Salgótarján, Hungary;
| | - Zsolt Kézsmárki
- Division of Radiology, Kenézy Gyula Campus, University of Debrecen Medical Center, University of Debrecen, H-4031 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Boglárka Brúgós
- Division of Rare Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine Block B, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (B.B.); (G.P.)
| | - György Pfliegler
- Division of Rare Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine Block B, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (B.B.); (G.P.)
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21
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Human SMAD4 Genomic Variants Identified in Individuals with Heritable and Early-Onset Thoracic Aortic Disease. CARDIOGENETICS 2021; 11:132-138. [DOI: 10.3390/cardiogenetics11030015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) that progress to acute thoracic aortic dissections (TADs) are life-threatening vascular events that have been associated with altered transforming growth factor (TGF) β signaling. In addition to TAA, multiple genetic vascular disorders, including hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), involve altered TGFβ signaling and vascular malformations. Due to the importance of TGFβ, genomic variant databases have been curated for activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) and endoglin (ENG). This case report details seven variants in SMAD4 that are associated with either heritable or early-onset aortic dissections and compares them to pathogenic exon variants in gnomAD v2.1.1. The TAA and TAD variants were identified through whole exome sequencing of 346 families with unrelated heritable thoracic aortic disease (HTAD) and 355 individuals with early-onset (age ≤ 56 years old) thoracic aortic dissection (ESTAD). An allele frequency filter of less than 0.05% was applied in the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD exome v2.1.1) with a combined annotation-dependent depletion score (CADD) greater than 20. These seven variants also have a higher REVEL score (>0.2), indicating pathogenic potential. Further in vivo and in vitro analysis is needed to evaluate how these variants affect SMAD4 mRNA stability and protein activity in association with thoracic aortic disease.
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22
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Iriarte Fuster A, Cerdà Serra P, Riera-Mestre A. PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS): new insight in known diseases. Med Clin (Barc) 2021; 157:483-488. [PMID: 34281706 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2021.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The overgrowth syndromes related to phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) are grouped under the concept of PROS (PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum). It is a heterogeneous group of diseases, considered a rare disease (ORPHA: 530313), which combines the presence of vascular malformations with segmental overgrowth of some parts of the body. All these diseases are caused by mutations in the gene that encodes for the alpha subunit of PI3K. These mutations are somatic and take place during the embryonic stage. Depending on the stage of embryonic development and the affected germ layers, the phenotype will be very different, from syndromes with extensive involvement to isolated forms. Although there are clinical criteria, identification of the mutation by biopsy, although complex, confirms the diagnosis. The objective of the present study is to review the pathophysiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of PROS, in order to optimize its identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Iriarte Fuster
- Unidad de HHT y otras Enfermedades Minoritarias Vasculares, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, España
| | - Pau Cerdà Serra
- Unidad de HHT y otras Enfermedades Minoritarias Vasculares, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, España
| | - Antoni Riera-Mestre
- Unidad de HHT y otras Enfermedades Minoritarias Vasculares, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, España; Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España.
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23
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Iriarte A, Ochoa-Callejero L, García-Sanmartín J, Cerdà P, Garrido P, Narro-Íñiguez J, Mora-Luján JM, Jucglà A, Sánchez-Corral MA, Cruellas F, Gamundi E, Ribas J, Castellote J, Viñals F, Martínez A, Riera-Mestre A. Adrenomedullin as a potential biomarker involved in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Eur J Intern Med 2021; 88:89-95. [PMID: 33888392 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2021.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adrenomedullin (AM) is a vasoactive peptide mostly secreted by endothelial cells with an important role in preserving endothelial integrity. The relationship between AM and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is unknown. We aimed to compare the serum levels and tissue expression of AM between HHT patients and controls. METHODS Serum AM levels were measured by radioimmunoassay and compared between control and HHT groups. AM levels were also compared among HHT subgroups according to clinical characteristics. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs4910118 was assessed by restriction analysis and sequencing. AM immunohistochemistry was performed on biopsies of cutaneous telangiectasia from eight HHT patients and on the healthy skin from five patients in the control group. RESULTS Forty-five HHT patients and 50 healthy controls were included, mean age (SD) was 50.7 (14.9) years and 46.4 (9.9) years (p = 0.102), respectively. HHT patients were mostly female (60% vs 38%, p = 0.032). Median [Q1-Q3] serum AM levels were 68.3 [58.1-80.6] pg/mL in the HHT group and 47.7 [43.2-53.8] pg/mL in controls (p<0.001), with an optimal AM cut-off according to Youden's J statistic of 55.32 pg/mL (J:0.729). Serum AM levels were similar in the HHT subgroups. No patient with HHT had the SNP rs4910118. AM immunoreactivity was found with high intensity in the abnormal blood vessels of HHT biopsies. CONCLUSIONS We detected higher AM serum levels and tissue expression in patients with HHT than in healthy controls. The role of AM in HHT, and whether AM may constitute a novel biomarker and therapeutic target, needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Iriarte
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain
| | - L Ochoa-Callejero
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño Spain
| | - J García-Sanmartín
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño Spain
| | - P Cerdà
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain
| | - P Garrido
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño Spain
| | - J Narro-Íñiguez
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño Spain
| | - J M Mora-Luján
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain
| | - A Jucglà
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Dermatology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain
| | - M A Sánchez-Corral
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Cardiology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain
| | - F Cruellas
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Otorhinolaryngology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain
| | - E Gamundi
- Hematology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain
| | - J Ribas
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Pneumology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain
| | - J Castellote
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Liver Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Physiological Sciences Department. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Viñals
- Physiological Sciences Department. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance, Institut Catala d'Oncologia, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Barcelona Spain; Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Martínez
- Angiogenesis Group, Oncology Area, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño Spain
| | - A Riera-Mestre
- HHT Unit. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Internal Medicine Department. Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona Spain; Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Barcelona Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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24
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SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Patients Suggests Less Clinical Impact Than in the General Population. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091884. [PMID: 33925423 PMCID: PMC8123859 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
At the moment of writing this communication, the health crisis derived from the COVID-19 pandemic has affected more than 120 million cases, with 40 million corresponding to Europe. In total, the number of deaths is almost 3 million, but continuously rising. Although COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, SARS-CoV-2 infects also endothelial cells in the pulmonary capillaries. This affects the integrity of the endothelium and increases vascular permeability. In addition, there are serious indirect consequences, like disruption of endothelial cells’ junctions leading to micro-bleeds and uncontrolled blood clotting. The impact of COVID-19 in people with rare chronic cardiovascular diseases is unknown so far, and interesting to assess, because the virus may cause additional complications in these patients. The aim of the present work was to study the COVID-19 infection among the patients with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT). A retrospective study was carried out in a 138 HHT patients’ sample attending an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) reference consult. The evaluation of the COVID-19 infection in them reveals milder symptoms; among the 25 HHT patients who were infected, only 3 cases were hospitalized, and none of them required ICU or ventilation assistance. The results are discussed in the light of macrophage immune response.
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25
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Riera-Mestre A, Iriarte A, Moreno M, Del Castillo R, López-Wolf D. Angiogenesis, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and COVID-19. Angiogenesis 2020; 24:13-15. [PMID: 33052496 PMCID: PMC7556563 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-020-09755-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare autosomal-dominant disease characterized by pathologic angiogenesis that provokes vascular overgrowth. The evidence about the influence of Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in patients with rare diseases is scarce. We aimed to know the prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in HHT patients. The HHT pathogenic angiogenesis and endothelial injury in COVID-19 are discussed using data from RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) registry. RiHHTa is an open, multicenter, prospective, observational registry including adult patients with HHT. A 27-item survey that captured clinical data of admitted HHT patients for COVID-19 was distributed to all RiHHTa investigators from June 8th to June 24th 2020. Only one out of 1177 HHT patients was admitted for COVID-19 pneumonia. She is a 74 years-old woman with a pathogenic variant in ACVRL1 gene. Her clinical course did not involve mechanical ventilation or worsening epistaxis, and she was successfully discharged after two weeks. The endothelial damage and the consequent angiogenic process in COVID-19 patients deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Riera-Mestre
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge - IDIBELL, Feixa Llarga S/N, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) Investigators. Rare Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Adriana Iriarte
- Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge - IDIBELL, Feixa Llarga S/N, 08907, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) Investigators. Rare Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuela Moreno
- RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) Investigators. Rare Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, Madrid, Spain
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Cecilio, Granada, Spain
| | - Raul Del Castillo
- RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) Investigators. Rare Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, Madrid, Spain
- Otorhinolaryngology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel López-Wolf
- RiHHTa (Computerized Registry of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) Investigators. Rare Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine, Madrid, Spain
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
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26
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Genotype-Phenotype Correlations in Children with HHT. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9092714. [PMID: 32842615 PMCID: PMC7565052 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a rare autosomal dominant disease mostly caused by mutations in three known genes (ENG, ACVRL1, and SMAD4), is characterized by the development of vascular malformations (VMs). Patients with HHT may present with mucocutaneous telangiectasia, as well as organ arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the central nervous system, lungs, and liver. Genotype-phenotype correlations have been well described in adults with HHT. We aimed to investigate genotype-phenotype correlations among pediatric HHT patients. Demographic, clinical, and genetic data were collected and analyzed in 205 children enrolled in the multicenter Brain Vascular Malformation Consortium HHT Project. A chi-square test was used to determine the association between phenotypic presentations and genotype. Among 205 patients (age range: 0-18 years; mean: 11 years), ENG mutation was associated with the presence of pulmonary AVMs (p < 0.001) and brain VM (p < 0.001). The presence of a combined phenotype-defined as both pulmonary AVMs and brain VMs-was also associated with ENG mutation. Gastrointestinal bleeding was rare (4.4%), but was associated with SMAD4 genotype (p < 0.001). We conclude that genotype-phenotype correlations among pediatric HHT patients are similar to those described among adults. Specifically, pediatric patients with ENG mutation have a greater prevalence of pulmonary AVMs, brain VMs, and a combined phenotype.
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