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Divaris E, Kostopoulos G, Efstathiadou ZA. Current and Emerging Pharmacological Therapies for Cushing's Disease. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:757-777. [PMID: 38424426 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128290025240216110928] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Cushing's Disease (CD), hypercortisolism due to pituitary ACTH secreting neuroendocrine neoplasm, is associated with increased morbidity and, if untreated, mortality in about half of the affected individuals. Consequently, the timely initiation of effective treatment is mandatory. Neurosurgery is the first line and the only potentially curative treatment; however, 30% of patients will have persistent disease post-surgery. Furthermore, a small percentage of those initially controlled will develop hypercortisolism during long-term follow- up. Therefore, patients with persistent or recurrent disease, as well as those considered non-eligible for surgery, will need a second-line therapeutic approach, i.e., pharmacotherapy. Radiation therapy is reserved as a third-line therapeutic option due to its slower onset of action and its unfavorable profile regarding complications. During the past few years, the understanding of molecular mechanisms implicated in the physiology of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis has evolved, and new therapeutic targets for CD have emerged. In the present review, currently available treatments, compounds currently tested in ongoing clinical trials, and interesting, potentially new targets emerging from unraveling molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios Divaris
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kostopoulos
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Zoe A Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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2
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Newfield RS, Sarafoglou K, Fechner PY, Nokoff NJ, Auchus RJ, Vogiatzi MG, Jeha GS, Giri N, Roberts E, Sturgeon J, Chan JL, Farber RH. Crinecerfont, a CRF1 Receptor Antagonist, Lowers Adrenal Androgens in Adolescents With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2871-2878. [PMID: 37216921 PMCID: PMC10583973 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad270] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Crinecerfont, a corticotropin-releasing factor type 1 receptor antagonist, has been shown to reduce elevated adrenal androgens and precursors in adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD), a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by cortisol deficiency and androgen excess due to elevated adrenocorticotropin. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of crinecerfont in adolescents with 21OHD CAH. METHODS This was an open-label, phase 2 study (NCT04045145) at 4 centers in the United States. Participants were males and females, 14 to 17 years of age, with classic 21OHD CAH. Crinecerfont was administered orally (50 mg twice daily) for 14 consecutive days with morning and evening meals. The main outcomes were change from baseline to day 14 in circulating concentrations of ACTH, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), androstenedione, and testosterone. RESULTS 8 participants (3 males, 5 females) were enrolled; median age was 15 years and 88% were Caucasian/White. After 14 days of crinecerfont, median percent reductions from baseline to day 14 were as follows: ACTH, -57%; 17OHP, -69%; and androstenedione, -58%. In female participants, 60% (3/5) had ≥50% reduction from baseline in testosterone. CONCLUSION Adolescents with classic 21OHD CAH had substantial reductions in adrenal androgens and androgen precursors after 14 days of oral crinecerfont administration. These results are consistent with a study of crinecerfont in adults with classic 21OHD CAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron S Newfield
- Pediatric Endocrinology, University of California San Diego and Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Kyriakie Sarafoglou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - Patricia Y Fechner
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle Children’s, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Natalie J Nokoff
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Departments of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Maria G Vogiatzi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - George S Jeha
- Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA
| | - Nagdeep Giri
- Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA
| | - Eiry Roberts
- Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA
| | | | - Jean L Chan
- Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA
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Finkielstain GP, Rey RA. Challenges in managing disorders of sex development associated with adrenal dysfunction. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:427-439. [PMID: 37694439 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2256393] [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: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) associated with adrenal dysfunction occur due to different defects in the proteins involved in gonadal and adrenal steroidogenesis. AREAS COVERED The deficiencies in 21-hydroxylase and 11β-hydroxylase lead to DSD in 46,XX patients, defects in StAR, P450scc, 17α-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase lead to 46,XY DSD, and 3β-HSD2 and POR deficiencies cause both 46,XX and 46,XY DSD. Challenges in diagnosis arise from the low prevalence and the variability in serum steroid profiles. Replacement therapy with hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone helps to minimize life-threatening adrenal crises; however, availability is still an unresolved problem in many countries. Adverse health outcomes, due to the disease or its treatment, are common and include adult short stature, hypertension, osteoporosis, obesity, cardiometabolic risk, and reproductive health issues. Potential biomarkers to improve monitoring and novel treatment options that have been developed with the primary aim to decrease adrenal androgen production are promising tools to help improve the health and quality of life of these patients. EXPERT OPINION Steroid profiling by mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing technologies represent useful tools for establishing an etiologic diagnosis and drive personalized management. Nonetheless, access to health care still remains an issue requiring urgent solutions in many resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela P Finkielstain
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Dreves B, Reznik Y, Tabarin A. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: New biomarkers and adult treatments. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2023:S0003-4266(23)00034-3. [PMID: 36842612 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic disease caused by an enzyme deficiency interrupting adrenal steroidogenesis. It most frequently involves 21-hydroxylase, which induces adrenal insufficiency with hyperandrogenism. Restoring hormonal balance is difficult with glucocorticoids, which are the gold-standard treatment. Strict normalization of conventional biomarkers (17-hydroxyprogesterone and delta-4 androstenedione) is often obtained at the cost of iatrogenic hypercortisolism. Optimizing the management of these patients first involves using more specific biomarkers of adrenal steroidogenesis in difficult situations, and secondly using therapeutics targeting the induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis disorder. 11-oxygenated androgens are candidates for biochemical monitoring of Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), in particular 11-ketotestosterone. Numerous new therapeutic agents are currently being explored, the prime goal being to reduce glucocorticoid exposure, as no strategy can fully replace it at present. They can be divided into 3 categories. The first includes "more physiological" hydrocortisone administration (modified-release hydrocortisone and continuous subcutaneous infusion of hydrocortisone hemisuccinate); the second includes corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) receptor antagonists and anti-ACTH antibodies; and the third includes steroidogenesis inhibitors. Finally, experiments on gene and cell therapies suggest the possibility of lasting remission or even cure in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bleuenn Dreves
- Endocrinology, Diabetology Department, Caen University Hospital, Caen, France.
| | - Yves Reznik
- Endocrinology, Diabetology Department, Caen University Hospital, Caen, France
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Endocrinology Department, Bordeaux University Hospital, Pessac, France
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Bhattacharjee P, Rutland N, Iyer MR. Targeting Sterol O-Acyltransferase/Acyl-CoA:Cholesterol Acyltransferase (ACAT): A Perspective on Small-Molecule Inhibitors and Their Therapeutic Potential. J Med Chem 2022; 65:16062-16098. [PMID: 36473091 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sterol O-acyltransferase (SOAT) is a membrane-bound enzyme that aids the esterification of cholesterol and fatty acids to cholesterol esters. SOAT has been studied extensively as a potential drug target, since its inhibition can serve as an alternative to statin therapy. Two SOAT isozymes that have discrete functions in the human body, namely, SOAT1 and SOAT2, have been characterized. Over three decades of research has focused on candidate SOAT1 inhibitors with unsatisfactory results in clinical trials. Recent research has focused on targeting SOAT2 selectively. In this perspective, we summarize the literature covering various SOAT inhibitory agents and discuss the design, structural requirements, and mode of action of SOAT inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinaki Bhattacharjee
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Nicholas Rutland
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
| | - Malliga R Iyer
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, 5625 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20852, United States
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Liang K, Dai JY. Progress of potential drugs targeted in lipid metabolism research. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1067652. [PMID: 36588702 PMCID: PMC9800514 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1067652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipids are a class of complex hydrophobic molecules derived from fatty acids that not only form the structural basis of biological membranes but also regulate metabolism and maintain energy balance. The role of lipids in obesity and other metabolic diseases has recently received much attention, making lipid metabolism one of the attractive research areas. Several metabolic diseases are linked to lipid metabolism, including diabetes, obesity, and atherosclerosis. Additionally, lipid metabolism contributes to the rapid growth of cancer cells as abnormal lipid synthesis or uptake enhances the growth of cancer cells. This review introduces the potential drug targets in lipid metabolism and summarizes the important potential drug targets with recent research progress on the corresponding small molecule inhibitor drugs. The significance of this review is to provide a reference for the clinical treatment of metabolic diseases related to lipid metabolism and the treatment of tumors, hoping to deepen the understanding of lipid metabolism and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liang
- School of Life Science, Peking University, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Kai Liang, ; Jian-Ye Dai,
| | - Jian-Ye Dai
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China,Collaborative Innovation Center for Northwestern Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China,*Correspondence: Kai Liang, ; Jian-Ye Dai,
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7
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Lerario AM, Mohan DR, Hammer GD. Update on Biology and Genomics of Adrenocortical Carcinomas: Rationale for Emerging Therapies. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:1051-1073. [PMID: 35551369 PMCID: PMC9695111 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The adrenal glands are paired endocrine organs that produce steroid hormones and catecholamines required for life. Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and often fatal cancer of the peripheral domain of the gland, the adrenal cortex. Recent research in adrenal development, homeostasis, and disease have refined our understanding of the cellular and molecular programs controlling cortical growth and renewal, uncovering crucial clues into how physiologic programs are hijacked in early and late stages of malignant neoplasia. Alongside these studies, genome-wide approaches to examine adrenocortical tumors have transformed our understanding of ACC biology, and revealed that ACC is composed of distinct molecular subtypes associated with favorable, intermediate, and dismal clinical outcomes. The homogeneous transcriptional and epigenetic programs prevailing in each ACC subtype suggest likely susceptibility to any of a plethora of existing and novel targeted agents, with the caveat that therapeutic response may ultimately be limited by cancer cell plasticity. Despite enormous biomedical research advances in the last decade, the only potentially curative therapy for ACC to date is primary surgical resection, and up to 75% of patients will develop metastatic disease refractory to standard-of-care adjuvant mitotane and cytotoxic chemotherapy. A comprehensive, integrated, and current bench-to-bedside understanding of our field's investigations into adrenocortical physiology and neoplasia is crucial to developing novel clinical tools and approaches to equip the one-in-a-million patient fighting this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Marcondes Lerario
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
| | - Dipika R Mohan
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
| | - Gary D Hammer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200, USA
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Abstract
Treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was introduced in the 1950s following the discovery of the structure and function of adrenocortical hormones. Although major advances in molecular biology have delineated steroidogenic mechanisms and the genetics of CAH, management and treatment of this condition continue to present challenges. Management is complicated by a combination of comorbidities that arise from disease-related hormonal derangements and treatment-related adverse effects. The clinical outcomes of CAH can include life-threatening adrenal crises, altered growth and early puberty, and adverse effects on metabolic, cardiovascular, bone and reproductive health. Standard-of-care glucocorticoid formulations fall short of replicating the circadian rhythm of cortisol and controlling efficient adrenocorticotrophic hormone-driven adrenal androgen production. Adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens have emerged as potential new biomarkers for CAH, as traditional biomarkers are subject to variability and are not adrenal-specific, contributing to management challenges. Multiple alternative treatment approaches are being developed with the aim of tailoring therapy for improved patient outcomes. This Review focuses on challenges and advances in the management and treatment of CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, the most common type of CAH. Furthermore, we examine new therapeutic developments, including treatments designed to replace cortisol in a physiological manner and adjunct agents intended to control excess androgens and thereby enable reductions in glucocorticoid doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Mallappa
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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9
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Abstract
Patients with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) need life-long medical treatment to replace the lacking glucocorticoids and potentially lacking mineralocorticoids and to lower elevated adrenal androgens. Long-term complications are common, including gonadal dysfunction, infertility, and cardiovascular and metabolic co-morbidity with reduced quality of life. These complications can be attributed to the exposure of supraphysiological dosages of glucocorticoids and the longstanding exposure to elevated adrenal androgens. Development of novel therapies is necessary to address the chronic glucocorticoid overexposure, lack of circadian rhythm in glucocorticoid replacement, and inefficient glucocorticoid delivery with concomitant periods of hyperandrogenism. In this review we aim to give an overview about the current treatment regimens and its limitations and describe novel therapies especially evaluated for 21OHD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariska A M Schröder
- Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Childrens Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although the basic treatment of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is well established, there are active clinical research projects to more closely mimic the normal diurnal rhythm of cortisol secretion and to reduce total glucocorticoid doses to minimize adverse metabolic effects. RECENT FINDINGS We review clinical studies on CAH treatment published in the last 18 months or currently underway according to ClinicalTrials.gov listings. These can be grouped into several broad themes: alternative dosing forms of hydrocortisone with altered pharmacokinetics or easier dose titration; corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists that reduce corticotropin (ACTH) secretion and thereby reduce adrenal androgen secretion; androgen biosynthesis inhibitors; a first clinical trial of a gene therapy vector. SUMMARY Alternative dosing forms of hydrocortisone are, or will shortly be, marketed, but cost may be a barrier to utilization, at least in the US market. Trials of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor antagonists and androgen biosynthesis inhibitors are currently underway. The author believes that trials of gene therapy for CAH are premature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perrin C White
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Professor of Pediatrics, Dallas, Texas, USA
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11
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Auchus RJ, Sarafoglou K, Fechner PY, Vogiatzi MG, Imel EA, Davis SM, Giri N, Sturgeon J, Roberts E, Chan JL, Farber RH. Crinecerfont Lowers Elevated Hormone Markers in Adults With 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:801-812. [PMID: 34653252 PMCID: PMC8851935 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) is characterized by impaired cortisol synthesis and excess androgen production. Corticotropin-releasing factor type 1 receptor (CRF1R) antagonism may decrease adrenal androgen production. OBJECTIVE This work aimed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of crinecerfont (NBI-74788), a selective CRF1R antagonist, in 21OHD. METHODS This open-label, phase 2 study, with sequential cohort design (NCT03525886), took place in 6 centers in the United States. Participants included men and women, aged 18 to 50 years, with 21OHD. Interventions included 4 crinecerfont regimens, each administered orally for 14 consecutive days: 50 or 100 mg once daily at bedtime (cohorts 1 and 2, respectively); 100 mg once daily in the evening (cohort 3); and 100 mg twice daily (cohort 4). Participants could enroll in more than 1 cohort. Main outcomes included changes from baseline to day 14 in adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), androstenedione, and testosterone. RESULTS Eighteen participants (11 women, 7 men) were enrolled: cohort 1 (n = 8), cohort 2 (n = 7), cohort 3 (n = 8), cohort 4 (n = 8). Mean age was 31 years; 94% were White. Median percent reductions were more than 60% for ACTH (-66%), 17OHP (-64%), and androstenedione (-64%) with crinecerfont 100 mg twice a day. In female participants, 73% (8/11) had a 50% or greater reduction in testosterone levels; male participants had median 26% to 65% decreases in androstenedione/testosterone ratios. CONCLUSION Crinecerfont treatment for 14 days lowered ACTH and afforded clinically meaningful reductions of elevated 17OHP, androstenedione, testosterone (women), or androstenedione/testosterone ratio (men) in adults with 21OHD. Longer-term studies are required to evaluate the effects of crinecerfont on clinical end points of disordered steroidogenesis and glucocorticoid exposure in patients with 21OHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Auchus
- Departments of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kyriakie Sarafoglou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Patricia Y Fechner
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Maria G Vogiatzi
- Division of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Erik A Imel
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Shanlee M Davis
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Nagdeep Giri
- Neurocrine Biosciences Inc, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Eiry Roberts
- Neurocrine Biosciences Inc, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jean L Chan
- Neurocrine Biosciences Inc, San Diego, California, USA
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Claahsen - van der Grinten HL, Speiser PW, Ahmed SF, Arlt W, Auchus RJ, Falhammar H, Flück CE, Guasti L, Huebner A, Kortmann BBM, Krone N, Merke DP, Miller WL, Nordenström A, Reisch N, Sandberg DE, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Touraine P, Utari A, Wudy SA, White PC. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia-Current Insights in Pathophysiology, Diagnostics, and Management. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:91-159. [PMID: 33961029 PMCID: PMC8755999 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders affecting cortisol biosynthesis. Reduced activity of an enzyme required for cortisol production leads to chronic overstimulation of the adrenal cortex and accumulation of precursors proximal to the blocked enzymatic step. The most common form of CAH is caused by steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency due to mutations in CYP21A2. Since the last publication summarizing CAH in Endocrine Reviews in 2000, there have been numerous new developments. These include more detailed understanding of steroidogenic pathways, refinements in neonatal screening, improved diagnostic measurements utilizing chromatography and mass spectrometry coupled with steroid profiling, and improved genotyping methods. Clinical trials of alternative medications and modes of delivery have been recently completed or are under way. Genetic and cell-based treatments are being explored. A large body of data concerning long-term outcomes in patients affected by CAH, including psychosexual well-being, has been enhanced by the establishment of disease registries. This review provides the reader with current insights in CAH with special attention to these new developments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phyllis W Speiser
- Cohen Children’s Medical Center of NY, Feinstein Institute, Northwell Health, Zucker School of Medicine, New Hyde Park, NY 11040, USA
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Departments of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Intitutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christa E Flück
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart’s and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Angela Huebner
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Paediatrics, Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara B M Kortmann
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatric Urology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nils Krone
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Deborah P Merke
- National Institutes of Health Clinical Center and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Walter L Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Reproductive Sciences, and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Anna Nordenström
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - David E Sandberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Susan B. Meister Child Health Evaluation and Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Philippe Touraine
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth and Development, Center for Rare Gynecological Diseases, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne University Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Agustini Utari
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Laboratory of Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Perrin C White
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX 75390, USA
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Prete A, Auchus RJ, Ross RJ. Clinical advances in the pharmacotherapy of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 186:R1-R14. [PMID: 34735372 PMCID: PMC8679847 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with 21-hydroxylase deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia (21OHD-CAH) have poor health outcomes with increased mortality, short stature, impaired fertility, and increased cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity. To address this, there are therapies in development that target the clinical goal of treatment, which is to control excess androgens with an adrenal replacement dose of glucocorticoid. METHODS Narrative review of publications on recent clinical developments in the pharmacotherapy of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. SUMMARY Therapies in clinical development target different levels of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Two corticotrophin-releasing factor type 1 (CRF1) receptor antagonists, Crinecerfont and Tildacerfont, have been trialled in poorly controlled 21OHD-CAH patients, and both reduced ACTH and androgen biomarkers while patients were on stable glucocorticoid replacement. Improvements in glucocorticoid replacement include replacing the circadian rhythm of cortisol that has been trialled with continuous s.c. infusion of hydrocortisone and Chronocort, a delayed-release hydrocortisone formulation. Chronocort optimally controlled 21OHD-CAH in 80% of patients on an adrenal replacement dose of hydrocortisone, which was associated with patient-reported benefits including restoration of menses and pregnancies. Adrenal-targeted therapies include the steroidogenesis-blocking drug Abiraterone acetate, which reduced adrenal androgen biomarkers in poorly controlled patients. CONCLUSIONS CRF1 receptor antagonists hold promise to avoid excess glucocorticoid replacement in patients not controlled on standard or circadian glucocorticoid replacement such as Chronocort. Gene and cell therapies are the only therapeutic approaches that could potentially correct both cortisol deficiency and androgen excess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Departments of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Richard J Ross
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to R J Ross;
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14
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Websdale A, Kiew Y, Chalmers P, Chen X, Cioccoloni G, Hughes TA, Luo X, Mwarzi R, Poirot M, Røberg-Larsen H, Wu R, Xu M, Zulyniak MA, Thorne JL. Pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of cholesterol esterification enzymes reduces tumour burden: A systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical models. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 196:114731. [PMID: 34407453 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol esterification proteins Sterol-O acyltransferases (SOAT) 1 and 2 are emerging prognostic markers in many cancers. These enzymes utilise fatty acids conjugated to coenzyme A to esterify cholesterol. Cholesterol esterification is tightly regulated and enables formation of lipid droplets that act as storage organelles for lipid soluble vitamins and minerals, and as cholesterol reservoirs. In cancer, this provides rapid access to cholesterol to maintain continual synthesis of the plasma membrane. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we summarise the current depth of understanding of the role of this metabolic pathway in pan-cancer development. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for preclinical studies identified eight studies where cholesteryl ester concentrations were compared between tumour and adjacent-normal tissue, and 24 studies where cholesterol esterification was blocked by pharmacological or genetic approaches. Tumour tissue had a significantly greater concentration of cholesteryl esters than non-tumour tissue (p < 0.0001). Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of SOAT was associated with significantly smaller tumours of all types (p ≤ 0.002). SOAT inhibition increased tumour apoptosis (p = 0.007), CD8 + lymphocyte infiltration and cytotoxicity (p ≤ 0.05), and reduced proliferation (p = 0.0003) and metastasis (p < 0.0001). Significant risk of publication bias was found and may have contributed to a 32% overestimation of the meta-analysed effect size. Avasimibe, the most frequently used SOAT inhibitor, was effective at doses equivalent to those previously reported to be safe and tolerable in humans. This work indicates that SOAT inhibition should be explored in clinical trials as an adjunct to existing anti-neoplastic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Websdale
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Yi Kiew
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Philip Chalmers
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Xinyu Chen
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Giorgia Cioccoloni
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | | | - Xinyu Luo
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Rufaro Mwarzi
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Marc Poirot
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Ruoying Wu
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Mengfan Xu
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Michael A Zulyniak
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - James L Thorne
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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15
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The introduction of synthetic glucocorticoids 70 years ago made survival possible in classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD). The currently used glucocorticoid therapy may lead to unphysiological dosing with negative consequencies on health in addition to the problems that may arise due to androgen over-exposure. RECENT FINDINGS Fertility in females with 21OHD seemed to be impaired, especially in the salt-wasting (SW) phenotype but when pregnancies did occur there was a higher risk for gestational diabetes and cesearean section. Increased fat mass, body mass index, insulin resistance and frequency of autoimmune disorders as well as impaired echocardiographic parameters and lower bone mineral density were found in 21OHD compared to controls. Negative effects on cognitive functions have been identified. Adrenal tumors, especially myelolipomas, were prevalent. Increased knowledge on steroid metabolism in 21OHD and urine steroid profiling may improve assessment of treatment efficacy. Nevanimibe, abiraterone acetate and anastrozole may have a place in the future management of 21OHD. Long-acting glucocorticoids may be a less favorable, especially dexamethasone. SUMMARY The various clinical outcomes need regular monitoring. Negative consequencies are to large extent the result of the unphysiological glucocorticoid replacement. Modern management with improved follow-up and future addition of new drugs may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nordenström
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Svetlana Lajic
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital
- Departement of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Abstract
CONTEXT Endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS) is characterized by excess cortisol secretion, which is driven by tumorous secretion of corticotropin in the majority of patients. Untreated, CS results in substantial morbidity and mortality. Tumor-directed surgery is generally the first-line therapy for CS. However, hypercortisolism may persist or recur postoperatively; in other cases, the underlying tumor may not be resectable or its location may not be known. Yet other patients may be acutely ill and require stabilization before definitive surgery. In all these cases, additional interventions are needed, including adrenally directed medical therapies. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Electronic literature searches were performed to identify studies pertaining to adrenally acting agents used for CS. Data were abstracted and used to compile this review article. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Adrenally directed medical therapies inhibit one or several enzymes involved in adrenal steroidogenesis. Several adrenally acting medical therapies for CS are currently available, including ketoconazole, metyrapone, osilodrostat, mitotane, and etomidate. Additional agents are under investigation. Drugs differ with regards to details of their mechanism of action, time course of pharmacologic effect, safety and tolerability, potential for drug-drug interactions, and route of administration. All agents require careful dose titration and patient monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness, while avoiding hypoadrenalism. CONCLUSIONS These medications have an important role in the management of CS, particularly among patients with persistent or recurrent hypercortisolism postoperatively or those who cannot undergo tumor-directed surgery. Use of these drugs mandates adequate patient instruction and close monitoring to ensure treatment goals are being met while untoward adverse effects are minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit and Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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17
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Speiser PW. Invited Commentary: A Phase 2, Multicenter Study of Nevanimibe for the Treatment of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5890495. [PMID: 32777044 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis W Speiser
- Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, Northwell Health, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra, Hempstead, NY
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