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Majlessipour F, Zhu G, Baca N, Kumbaji M, Hwa V, Danielpour M. Skeletal overgrowth in a pre-pubescent child treated with pan-FGFR inhibitor. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30887. [PMID: 38841436 PMCID: PMC11152661 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors and their receptors (FGFR) have major roles in both human growth and oncogenesis. In adults, therapeutic FGFR inhibitors have been successful against tumors that carry somatic FGFR mutations. In pediatric patients, trials testing these anti-tumor FGFR inhibitor therapeutics are underway, with several recent reports suggesting modest positive responses. Herein, we report an unforeseen outcome in a pre-pubescent child with an FGFR1-mutated glioma who was successfully treated with FDA-approved erdafitinib, a pan-FGFR inhibitor approved for treatment of Bladder tumors. While on treatment with erdafitinib, the patient experienced rapid skeletal and long bone overgrowth resulting in kyphoscoliosis, reminiscent of patients with congenital loss-of-function FGFR3 mutations. We utilized normal dermal fibroblast cells established from the patient as a surrogate model to demonstrate that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a factor important for developmental growth of bones and tissues, can activate the PI3K/AKT pathway in erdafitinib-treated cells but not the MAPK/ERK pathway. The IGF-I-activated PI3K/AKT signaling rescued normal fibroblasts from the cytotoxic effects of erdafitinib by promoting cell survival. We, therefore, postulate that IGF-I-activated P13K/AKT signaling likely continues to promote bone elongation in the growing child, but not in adults, treated with therapeutic pan-FGFR inhibitors. Importantly, since activated MAPK signaling counters bone elongation, we further postulate that prolonged blockage of the MAPK pathway with pan-FGFR inhibitors, together with actions of growth-promoting factors including IGF-1, could explain the abnormal skeletal and axial growth suffered by our pre-pubertal patient during systemic therapeutic use of pan-FGFR inhibitors. Further studies to find more targeted, and/or appropriate dosing, of pan-FGFR inhibitor therapeutics for children are essential to avoid unexpected off-target effects as was observed in our young patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fataneh Majlessipour
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children's and Cedars-Sinai Cancer, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Gaohui Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Nicole Baca
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children's and Cedars-Sinai Cancer, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Meenasri Kumbaji
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Vivian Hwa
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Premium Research Institute for Human Metaverse Medicine (WPI-PRIMe), Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Moise Danielpour
- Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute at the Department of Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children's, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
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Tian A, Meng F, Li S, Wu Y, Zhang C, Luo X. Inadequate linear catch-up growth in children born small for gestational age: Influencing factors and underlying mechanisms. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024:10.1007/s11154-024-09885-x. [PMID: 38763958 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-024-09885-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
A minority of children born small for gestational age (SGA) may experience catch-up growth failure and remain short in adulthood. However, the underlying causes and mechanisms of this phenomenon are not yet fully comprehended. We reviewed the present state of research concerning the growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor axis and growth plate in SGA children who fail to achieve catch-up growth. Additionally, we explored the factors influencing catch-up growth in SGA children and potential molecular mechanisms involved. Furthermore, we considered the potential benefits of supplementary nutrition, specific dietary patterns, probiotics and drug therapy in facilitating catch-up growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anran Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Fucheng Meng
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Sujuan Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yichi Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Cai Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Merchant N, Houchin L, Boucher K, Dauber A. A Clinical Trial of High Dose Growth Hormone in a Patient with a Dominant Negative Growth Hormone Receptor Mutation. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024:dgae244. [PMID: 38597155 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Rare patients with short stature and growth hormone (GH) resistance have dominant-negative variants in the GH receptor. We describe a patient with GH resistance due to elevated levels of GH binding protein and demonstrate the potential for a precision medicine intervention. OBJECTIVE To determine whether high dose GH can overcome GH resistance in this specific patient resulting in normal IGF-1 levels and improved growth rates. DESIGN Single patient trial of ascending doses of GH followed by dose stable phase; total 12 months of treatment. PATIENT Patient has a heterozygous variant in GH receptor resulting in elevated levels of GH binding protein manifesting as GH resistance and severe short stature. INTERVENTIONS Daily subcutaneous GH starting at 50 micrograms/kg/day and escalating to 250 micrograms/kg/day until goal IGF-1 achieved. Subject continued 250 micrograms/kg/day for a total treatment duration of 12 months. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was the dose of GH required to achieve an IGF-1 level above the mid-point of the normal range. Secondary endpoints included height velocity and the change in height SDS during the 1st year of treatment. RESULTS A dose of GH of 250 micrograms/kg/day achieved the target IGF-1 level. The patient's annualized height velocity was 8.7 cm/year, an increase of 3.4 cm/year from baseline, resulting in a 0.81 SD gain in height. CONCLUSIONS A precision medicine approach of extremely high dose GH was able to overcome GH resistance in a patient with a dominant-negative variant in the GH receptor resulting in elevated GH binding protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Merchant
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Lisa Houchin
- Division of Endocrinology, Levine Children's Hospital, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC
| | - Kimberly Boucher
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Andrew Dauber
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
- Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
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Bang P, Polak M, Bossowski A, Maghnie M, Argente J, Ramon-Krauel M, Sert C, Perrot V, Mazain S, Woelfle J. Frequency and Predictive Factors of Hypoglycemia in Patients Treated With rhIGF-1: Data From the Eu-IGFD Registry. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 109:46-56. [PMID: 37579214 PMCID: PMC10735455 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The European Increlex® Growth Forum Database (Eu-IGFD) is an ongoing surveillance registry (NCT00903110) established to collect long-term safety and effectiveness data on the use of recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-1 (rhIGF-1, mecasermin, Increlex) for the treatment of children/adolescents with severe primary insulin-like growth factor-1 deficiency (SPIGFD). OBJECTIVE This analysis of Eu-IGFD data aimed to identify the frequency and predictive factors for hypoglycemia adverse events (AEs) in children treated with rhIGF-1. METHODS Data were collected from December 2008 to May 2021. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictive risk factors for treatment-induced hypoglycemia AEs. Odds ratios (ORs) are presented with 95% CIs for each factor. RESULTS In total, 306 patients were enrolled in the registry; 84.6% were diagnosed with SPIGFD. Patients who experienced ≥ 1 hypoglycemia AE (n = 80) compared with those with no hypoglycemia AEs (n = 224) had a lower mean age at treatment start (8.7 years vs 9.8 years), a more frequent diagnosis of Laron syndrome (27.5% vs 10.3%), and a history of hypoglycemia (18.8% vs 4.5%). Prior history of hypoglycemia (OR 0.25; 95% CI: [0.11; 0.61]; P = .002) and Laron syndrome diagnosis (OR 0.36; 95% CI: [0.18; 0.72]; P = .004) predicted future hypoglycemia AEs. Total hypoglycemia AEs per patient per treatment year was 0.11 and total serious hypoglycemia AEs per patient per treatment year was 0.01. CONCLUSION Hypoglycemia occurs more frequently in patients with prior history of hypoglycemia and/or Laron syndrome compared with patients without these risk factors, and these patients should be carefully monitored for this AE throughout treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bang
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Michel Polak
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Gynaecology, and Diabetology, Assistance Publique—Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, 75015 Paris, France
- IMAGINE Institute, INSERM U1016, France University of Paris Cité, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Artur Bossowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrinology, Diabetology with Cardiology Division, Medical University of Białystok, 15-274 Białystok, Poland
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16100 Genova, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Jesús Argente
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, 28009 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología (CIBER) de Fisiopatología de Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA Food Institute, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ramon-Krauel
- Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Sarah Mazain
- Ipsen Pharma, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Joachim Woelfle
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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Savage MO, Donaldson MD, Davies JH, Storr HL. Key Stages in the Development and Establishment of Paediatric Endocrinology: A Template for Future Progress. Horm Res Paediatr 2023; 97:22-27. [PMID: 37166328 PMCID: PMC10836736 DOI: 10.1159/000530841] [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: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric endocrinology became recognised in Western European countries in the 1960s and 1970s. It is now a thriving paediatric sub-speciality in many countries but remains non-existent or in its infancy in others. We have had the privilege to work in Western centres of excellence, and this review outlines the key stages in the development of modern centres, discussing the human and organisational issues that have underpinned progress in the establishment of this paediatric sub-speciality. SUMMARY Human determination, vision, and ambition to create a modern centre and become a national flag bearer in the field are key components of success. The realisation that learning by spending time as a fellow away from one's home institution, so that knowledge can be acquired and brought back home, is also a key factor. Career structures should be designed to mentor and guide the trainee returning from a fellowship abroad. Scientific societies such as the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) are key resources for networking, support, and discussion with experienced colleagues who may have faced similar challenges. Training and acquisition of knowledge through on-site or e-learning initiatives are beneficial and numerous examples exist, including the telemedicine model of store-and-forward consultations. Leadership skills can be learnt, and good working relationships with adult endocrinology colleagues result in benefits and political support. KEY MESSAGES The development of paediatric endocrinology in a region with hitherto no such facilities constitutes a major contribution to local, regional, and, in all likelihood, national patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O. Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Justin H. Davies
- Paediatric Endocrinology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Helen L. Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Andrews A, Cottrell E, Maharaj A, Ladha T, Williams J, Schilbach K, Kaisinger LR, Perry JRB, Metherell LA, McCormick PJ, Storr HL. Characterization of dominant-negative growth hormone receptor variants reveals a potential therapeutic target for short stature. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:353-365. [PMID: 36943306 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) encompasses growth restriction, normal/elevated growth hormone (GH), and low insulin-like growth factor I (IGF1). "Nonclassical" GHI is poorly characterized and is rarely caused by heterozygous dominant-negative (DN) variants located in the intracellular or transmembrane domains of the GH receptor (GHR). We sought to determine the molecular mechanisms underpinning the growth restriction in 2 GHI cases. METHODS AND DESIGN A custom-made genetic investigative pipeline was exploited to identify the genetic cause of growth restriction in patients with GHI. Nanoluc binary technology (NanoBiT), in vitro splicing assays, western blotting, and flow cytometry, characterized the novel GHR variants. RESULTS Novel heterozygous GHR variants were identified in 2 unrelated patients with GHI. In vitro splicing assays indicated both variants activated the same alternative splice acceptor site resulting in aberrant splicing and exclusion of 26 base pairs of GHR exon 9. The GHR variants produced truncated receptors and impaired GH-induced GHR signaling. NanoBiT complementation and flow cytometry showed increased cell surface expression of variant GHR homo/heterodimers compared to wild-type (WT) homodimers and increased recombinant human GH binding to variant GHR homo/heterodimers and GH binding protein (GHBP) cleaved from the variant GHRs. The findings demonstrated increased variant GHR dimers and GHBP with resultant GH sequestration. CONCLUSION We identified and characterized 2 novel, naturally occurring truncated GHR gene variants. Intriguingly, these DN GHR variants act via the same cryptic splice acceptor site, highlighting impairing GH binding to excess GHBP as a potential therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afiya Andrews
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Cottrell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Avinaash Maharaj
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tasneem Ladha
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Williams
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katharina Schilbach
- Endocrine Laboratory, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Lena R Kaisinger
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - John R B Perry
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
- Metabolic Research Laboratory, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J McCormick
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom
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Dong X, Su L, Patti ME. Growth Hormone and Counterregulation in the Pathogenesis of Diabetes. Curr Diab Rep 2022; 22:511-524. [PMID: 36001217 PMCID: PMC9484610 DOI: 10.1007/s11892-022-01488-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Canonical growth hormone (GH)-dependent signaling is essential for growth and counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia, but also may contribute to glucose homeostasis (even in the absence of hypoglycemia) via its impact on metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins, body composition, and cardiovascular risk profile. The aim of this review is to summarize recent data implicating GH action in metabolic control, including both IGF-1-dependent and -independent pathways, and its potential role as target for T2D therapy. RECENT FINDINGS Experimental blockade of the GHR can modulate glucose metabolism. Moreover, the soluble form of the GH receptor (GHR, or GHBP) was recently identified as a mediator of improvement in glycemic control in patients with T2D randomized to bariatric surgery vs. medical therapy. Reductions in GHR were accompanied by increases in plasma GH, but unchanged levels of both total and free IGF-1. Likewise, hepatic GHR expression is reduced following both RYGB and VSG in rodents. Emerging data indicate that GH signaling is important for regulation of long-term glucose metabolism in T2D. Future studies will be required to dissect tissue-specific GH signaling and sensitivity and their contributions to systemic glucose metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehong Dong
- Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lei Su
- Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mary-Elizabeth Patti
- Integrative Physiology and Metabolism, Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Inclusion and Withdrawal Criteria for Growth Hormone (GH) Therapy in Children with Idiopathic GH Deficiency—Towards Following the Evidence but Still with Unresolved Problems. ENDOCRINES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
According to current guidelines, growth hormone (GH) therapy is strongly recommended in children and adolescents with GH deficiency (GHD) in order to accelerate growth rate and attain normal adult height. The diagnosis of GHD requires demonstration of decreased GH secretion in stimulation tests, below the established threshold value. Currently, GHD in children is classified as secondary insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) deficiency. Most children diagnosed with isolated GHD present with normal GH secretion at the attainment of near-final height or even in mid-puberty. The most important clinical problems, related to the diagnosis of isolated GHD in children and to optimal duration of rhGH therapy include: arbitrary definition of subnormal GH peak in stimulation tests, disregarding factors influencing GH secretion, insufficient diagnostic accuracy and poor reproducibility of GH stimulation tests, discrepancies between spontaneous and stimulated GH secretion, clinical entity of neurosecretory dysfunction, discrepancies between IGF-1 concentrations and results of GH stimulation tests, significance of IGF-1 deficiency for the diagnosis of GHD, and a need for validation IGF-1 reference ranges. Many of these issues have remained unresolved for 25 years or even longer. It seems that finding solutions to them should optimize diagnostics and therapy of children with short stature.
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Wit JM, Joustra SD, Losekoot M, van Duyvenvoorde HA, de Bruin C. Differential Diagnosis of the Short IGF-I-Deficient Child with Apparently Normal Growth Hormone Secretion. Horm Res Paediatr 2022; 94:81-104. [PMID: 34091447 DOI: 10.1159/000516407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current differential diagnosis for a short child with low insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and a normal growth hormone (GH) peak in a GH stimulation test (GHST), after exclusion of acquired causes, includes the following disorders: (1) a decreased spontaneous GH secretion in contrast to a normal stimulated GH peak ("GH neurosecretory dysfunction," GHND) and (2) genetic conditions with a normal GH sensitivity (e.g., pathogenic variants of GH1 or GHSR) and (3) GH insensitivity (GHI). We present a critical appraisal of the concept of GHND and the role of 12- or 24-h GH profiles in the selection of children for GH treatment. The mean 24-h GH concentration in healthy children overlaps with that in those with GH deficiency, indicating that the previously proposed cutoff limit (3.0-3.2 μg/L) is too high. The main advantage of performing a GH profile is that it prevents about 20% of false-positive test results of the GHST, while it also detects a low spontaneous GH secretion in children who would be considered GH sufficient based on a stimulation test. However, due to a considerable burden for patients and the health budget, GH profiles are only used in few centres. Regarding genetic causes, there is good evidence of the existence of Kowarski syndrome (due to GH1 variants) but less on the role of GHSR variants. Several genetic causes of (partial) GHI are known (GHR, STAT5B, STAT3, IGF1, IGFALS defects, and Noonan and 3M syndromes), some responding positively to GH therapy. In the final section, we speculate on hypothetical causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M Wit
- Department of Paediatrics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd D Joustra
- Department of Paediatrics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Monique Losekoot
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christiaan de Bruin
- Department of Paediatrics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Savage MO, Storr HL. GH Resistance Is a Component of Idiopathic Short Stature: Implications for rhGH Therapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:781044. [PMID: 34956092 PMCID: PMC8702638 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.781044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic short stature (ISS) is a term used to describe a selection of short children for whom no precise aetiology has been identified. Molecular investigations have made notable discoveries in children with ISS, thus removing them from this category. However, many, if not the majority of children referred with short stature, are designated ISS. Our interest in defects of GH action, i.e. GH resistance, has led to a study of children with mild GH resistance, who we believe can be mis-categorised as ISS leading to potential inappropriate management. Approval of ISS by the FDA for hGH therapy has resulted in many short children receiving this treatment. The results are extremely variable. It is therefore important to correctly assess and investigate all ISS subjects in order to identify those with mild but unequivocal GH resistance, as in cases of PAPP-A2 deficiency. The correct identification of GH resistance defects will direct therapy towards rhIGF-I rather than rhGH. This example illustrates the importance of recognition of GH resistance among the very large number patients referred with short stature who are labelled as 'ISS'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O. Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Savage MO, Storr HL. Balanced assessment of growth disorders using clinical, endocrinological, and genetic approaches. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2021; 26:218-226. [PMID: 34991299 PMCID: PMC8749028 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2142208.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining the pathogenesis of pediatric growth disorders is often challenging. In many cases, no pathogenesis is identified, and a designation of idiopathic short stature is used. The investigation of short stature requires a combination of clinical, endocrinological, and genetic evaluation. The techniques used are described, with equal importance being given to each of the 3 approaches. Clinical skills are essential to elicit an accurate history, family pedigree, and symptoms of body system dysfunction. Endocrine assessment requires hormonal determination for the diagnosis of hormone deficiency and initiation of successful replacement therapy. Genetic analysis has added a new dimension to the investigation of short stature and now uses next-generation sequencing with a candidate gene approach to confirm probable recognizable monogenic disorders and exome sequencing for complex phenotypes of unknown origin. Using the 3 approaches of clinical, endocrine, and genetic probes with equal status in the hierarchy of investigational variables provides the clinician with the highest chance of identifying the correct causative pathogenetic mechanism in a child presenting with short stature of unknown origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Oswald Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK,Address for correspondence: Martin Oswald Savage Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Helen Louise Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
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Andrews A, Maharaj A, Cottrell E, Chatterjee S, Shah P, Denvir L, Dumic K, Bossowski A, Mushtaq T, Vukovic R, Didi M, Shaw N, Metherell LA, Savage MO, Storr HL. Genetic Characterization of Short Stature Patients With Overlapping Features of Growth Hormone Insensitivity Syndromes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e4716-e4733. [PMID: 34136918 PMCID: PMC8530715 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) in children is characterized by short stature, functional insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I deficiency, and normal or elevated serum growth hormone (GH) concentrations. The clinical and genetic etiology of GHI is expanding. OBJECTIVE We undertook genetic characterization of short stature patients referred with suspected GHI and features which overlapped with known GH-IGF-I axis defects. METHODS Between 2008 and 2020, our center received 149 GHI referrals for genetic testing. Genetic analysis utilized a combination of candidate gene sequencing, whole exome sequencing, array comparative genomic hybridization, and a targeted whole genome short stature gene panel. RESULTS Genetic diagnoses were identified in 80/149 subjects (54%) with 45/80 (56%) having known GH-IGF-I axis defects (GHR n = 40, IGFALS n = 4, IGFIR n = 1). The remaining 35/80 (44%) had diagnoses of 3M syndrome (n = 10) (OBSL1 n = 7, CUL7 n = 2, and CCDC8 n = 1), Noonan syndrome (n = 4) (PTPN11 n = 2, SOS1 n = 1, and SOS2 n = 1), Silver-Russell syndrome (n = 2) (loss of methylation on chromosome 11p15 and uniparental disomy for chromosome 7), Class 3-5 copy number variations (n = 10), and disorders not previously associated with GHI (n = 9) (Barth syndrome, autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome, microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II, achondroplasia, glycogen storage disease type IXb, lysinuric protein intolerance, multiminicore disease, macrocephaly, alopecia, cutis laxa, and scoliosis syndrome, and Bloom syndrome). CONCLUSION We report the wide range of diagnoses in 149 patients referred with suspected GHI, which emphasizes the need to recognize GHI as a spectrum of clinical entities in undiagnosed short stature patients. Detailed clinical and genetic assessment may identify a diagnosis and inform clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afiya Andrews
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Avinaash Maharaj
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Emily Cottrell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Sumana Chatterjee
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Artur Bossowski
- Department of Peadiatrics, Endocrinology and Diabetes with a Cardiology Unit, Medical University of Białystok, Poland
| | | | - Rade Vukovic
- Mother and Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, “Dr Vukan Cupic”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Nick Shaw
- Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Correspondence: Professor Helen L. Storr, Professor and Honorary Consultant in Paediatric Endocrinology, Centre for Endocrinology, John Vane Science Centre, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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Scalco RC, Correa FA, Dantas NCB, Vasques GA, Jorge AAL. Hormone resistance and short stature: A journey through the pathways of hormone signaling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 536:111416. [PMID: 34333056 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111416] [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: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Hormone resistances have been described in association with growth disorders, the majority involving the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) axis or hormones with specific paracrine-autocrine actions in the growth plate. Defects in hormone receptors or in proteins involved in intracellular signal transduction (post-receptor defects) are the main mechanisms of hormone resistance leading to short stature. The characteristic phenotypes of each of these hormonal resistances are very distinct and bring with them important insights into the role of each hormone and its signaling pathway. In this review, we discuss the molecular and clinical aspects of the main hormone resistances associated with short stature in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata C Scalco
- Disciplina de Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Ciencias Medicas da Santa Casa de Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda A Correa
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratorio de Hormonios e Genetica Molecular (LIM/42) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (HC-FMUSP), Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de Sao Paulo (ICESP) da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), Brazil
| | - Naiara C B Dantas
- Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Laboratorio de Hormonios e Genetica Molecular (LIM/42) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (HC-FMUSP), Brazil; Unidade de Endocrinologia Genetica, Laboratorio de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular (LIM/25) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (HC-FMUSP), Brazil
| | - Gabriela A Vasques
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genetica, Laboratorio de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular (LIM/25) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (HC-FMUSP), Brazil
| | - Alexander A L Jorge
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genetica, Laboratorio de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular (LIM/25) do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (HC-FMUSP), Brazil.
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Fernandez-Luque L, Al Herbish A, Al Shammari R, Argente J, Bin-Abbas B, Deeb A, Dixon D, Zary N, Koledova E, Savage MO. Digital Health for Supporting Precision Medicine in Pediatric Endocrine Disorders: Opportunities for Improved Patient Care. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:715705. [PMID: 34395347 PMCID: PMC8358399 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.715705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Digitalization of healthcare delivery is rapidly fostering development of precision medicine. Multiple digital technologies, known as telehealth or eHealth tools, are guiding individualized diagnosis and treatment for patients, and can contribute significantly to the objectives of precision medicine. From a basis of "one-size-fits-all" healthcare, precision medicine provides a paradigm shift to deliver a more nuanced and personalized approach. Genomic medicine utilizing new technologies can provide precision analysis of causative mutations, with personalized understanding of mechanisms and effective therapy. Education is fundamental to the telehealth process, with artificial intelligence (AI) enhancing learning for healthcare professionals and empowering patients to contribute to their care. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is rapidly implementing telehealth strategies at all levels and a workshop was convened to discuss aspirations of precision medicine in the context of pediatric endocrinology, including diabetes and growth disorders, with this paper based on those discussions. GCC regional investment in AI, bioinformatics and genomic medicine, is rapidly providing healthcare benefits. However, embracing precision medicine is presenting some major new design, installation and skills challenges. Genomic medicine is enabling precision and personalization of diagnosis and therapy of endocrine conditions. Digital education and communication tools in the field of endocrinology include chatbots, interactive robots and augmented reality. Obesity and diabetes are a major challenge in the GCC region and eHealth tools are increasingly being used for management of care. With regard to growth failure, digital technologies for growth hormone (GH) administration are being shown to enhance adherence and response outcomes. While technical innovations become more affordable with increasing adoption, we should be aware of sustainability, design and implementation costs, training of HCPs and prediction of overall healthcare benefits, which are essential for precision medicine to develop and for its objectives to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Riyad Al Shammari
- National Center for Artificial Intelligence, Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jesús Argente
- Department of Pediatrics & Pediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA Food Institute, CEIUAM+CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bassam Bin-Abbas
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Deeb
- Paediatric Endocrine Division, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - David Dixon
- Connected Health and Devices, Merck, Ares Trading SA, Aubonne, Switzerland
| | - Nabil Zary
- Institute for Excellence in Health Professions Education, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Martin O. Savage
- Department of Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Cottrell E, Maharaj A, Williams J, Chatterjee S, Cirillo G, Miraglia del Giudice E, Festa A, Palumbo S, Capalbo D, Salerno M, Pignata C, Savage MO, Schilbach K, Bidlingmaier M, Hwa V, Metherell LA, Grandone A, Storr HL. Growth Hormone Receptor (Ghr) 6ω Pseudoexon Activation: A Novel Cause Of Severe Growth Hormone Insensitivity (Ghi). J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 107:dgab550. [PMID: 34318893 PMCID: PMC8684449 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Severe forms of Growth Hormone Insensitivity (GHI) are characterized by extreme short stature, dysmorphism and metabolic anomalies. OBJECTIVE Identification of the genetic cause of growth failure in 3 'classical' GHI subjects. DESIGN A novel intronic GHR variant was identified, and in vitro splicing assays confirmed aberrant splicing. A 6Ω pseudoexon GHR vector and patient fibroblast analysis assessed the consequences of the novel pseudoexon inclusion and the impact on GHR function. RESULTS We identified a novel homozygous intronic GHR variant (g.5:42700940T>G, c.618 + 836T> G), 44bp downstream of the previously recognized intronic 6Ψ GHR pseudoexon mutation in the index patient. Two siblings also harbored the novel intronic 6Ω pseudoexon GHR variant in compound heterozygosity with the known GHR c.181C>T (R43X) mutation. In vitro splicing analysis confirmed inclusion of a 151bp mutant 6Ω pseudoexon not identified in wild-type constructs. Inclusion of the 6Ω pseudoexon causes a frameshift resulting in a non-functional truncated GHR lacking the transmembrane and intracellular domains. The truncated 6Ω pseudoexon protein demonstrated extracellular accumulation and diminished activation of STAT5B signaling following growth hormone stimulation. CONCLUSION Novel GHR 6Ω pseudoexon inclusion results in loss of GHR function consistent with a severe GHI phenotype. This represents a novel mechanism of Laron syndrome and is the first deep intronic variant identified causing severe postnatal growth failure. The 2 kindreds originate from the same town in Campania, Southern Italy, implying common ancestry. Our findings highlight the importance of studying variation in deep intronic regions as a cause of monogenic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cottrell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Avinaash Maharaj
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Jack Williams
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sumana Chatterjee
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Grazia Cirillo
- Studies of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Woman, Child, General and Specialized Surgery, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Emanuele Miraglia del Giudice
- Studies of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Woman, Child, General and Specialized Surgery, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Adalgisa Festa
- Studies of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Woman, Child, General and Specialized Surgery, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Stefania Palumbo
- Studies of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Woman, Child, General and Specialized Surgery, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Donatella Capalbo
- Federico II University Hospital: Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- University of Naples Federico II Department of Translational Medical Sciences: Universita degli Studi di Napoli Federico II Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Claudio Pignata
- University of Naples Federico II Department of Translational Medical Sciences: Universita degli Studi di Napoli Federico II Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | | | | | - Vivian Hwa
- Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, USA
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Anna Grandone
- Studies of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Woman, Child, General and Specialized Surgery, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute: Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry William Harvey Research Institute, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
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16
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LeRoith D, Holly JMP, Forbes BE. Insulin-like growth factors: Ligands, binding proteins, and receptors. Mol Metab 2021; 52:101245. [PMID: 33962049 PMCID: PMC8513159 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The insulin-like growth factor family of ligands (IGF-I, IGF-II, and insulin), receptors (IGF-IR, M6P/IGF-IIR, and insulin receptor [IR]), and IGF-binding proteins (IGFBP-1-6) play critical roles in normal human physiology and disease states. SCOPE OF REVIEW Insulin and insulin receptors are the focus of other chapters in this series and will therefore not be discussed further. Here we review the basic components of the IGF system, their role in normal physiology and in critical pathology's. While this review concentrates on the role of IGFs in human physiology, animal models have been essential in providing understanding of the IGF system, and its regulation, and are briefly described. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS IGF-I has effects via the circulation and locally within tissues to regulate cellular growth, differentiation, and survival, thereby controlling overall body growth. IGF-II levels are highest prenatally when it has important effects on growth. In adults, IGF-II plays important tissue-specific roles, including the maintenance of stem cell populations. Although the IGF-IR is closely related to the IR it has distinct physiological roles both on the cell surface and in the nucleus. The M6P/IGF-IIR, in contrast, is distinct and acts as a scavenger by mediating internalization and degradation of IGF-II. The IGFBPs bind IGF-I and IGF-II in the circulation to prolong their half-lives and modulate tissue access, thereby controlling IGF function. IGFBPs also have IGF ligand-independent cell effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek LeRoith
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeff M P Holly
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Learning & Research Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
| | - Briony E Forbes
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, 5042, Australia
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Rapaport R, Wit JM, Savage MO. Growth failure: 'idiopathic' only after a detailed diagnostic evaluation. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:R125-R138. [PMID: 33543731 PMCID: PMC8052574 DOI: 10.1530/ec-20-0585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The terms 'idiopathic short stature' (ISS) and 'small for gestational age' (SGA) were first used in the 1970s and 1980s. ISS described non-syndromic short children with undefined aetiology who did not have growth hormone (GH) deficiency, chromosomal defects, chronic illness, dysmorphic features or low birth weight. Despite originating in the pre-molecular era, ISS is still used as a diagnostic label today. The term 'SGA' was adopted by paediatric endocrinologists to describe children born with low birth weight and/or length, some of whom may experience lack of catch-up growth and present with short stature. GH treatment was approved by the FDA for short children born SGA in 2001, and by the EMA in 2003, and for the treatment of ISS in the US, but not Europe, in 2003. These approvals strengthened the terms 'SGA' and 'ISS' as clinical entities. While clinical and hormonal diagnostic techniques remain important, it is the emergence of genetic investigations that have led to numerous molecular discoveries in both ISS and SGA subjects. The primary message of this article is that the labels ISS and SGA are not definitive diagnoses. We propose that the three disciplines of clinical evaluation, hormonal investigation and genetic sequencing should have equal status in the hierarchy of short stature assessments and should complement each other to identify the true pathogenesis in poorly growing patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rapaport
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes, Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jan M Wit
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, UK
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18
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Savage MO, Storr HL, Backeljauw PF. The continuum between GH deficiency and GH insensitivity in children. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2021; 22:91-99. [PMID: 33025383 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-020-09590-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The continuum of growth hormone (GH)-IGF-I axis defects extends from severe to mild GH deficiency, through short stature disorders of undefined aetiology, to GH insensitivity disorders which can also be mild or severe. This group of defects comprises a spectrum of endocrine, biochemical, phenotypic and genetic abnormalities. The extreme cases are generally easily diagnosed because they conform to well-studied phenotypes with recognised biochemical features. The milder cases of both GH deficiency and GH insensitivity are less well defined and also overlap with the group of short stature conditions, labelled as idiopathic short stature (ISS). In this review the continuum model, which plots GH sensitivity against GH secretion, will be discussed. Defects causing GH deficiency and GH insensitivity will be described, together with the use of a diagnostic algorithm, designed to aid investigation and categorisation of these defects. The continuum will also be discussed in the context of growth-promoting endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, UK.
- John Vane Science Centre, William Harvey Research Institute, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, UK
| | - Philippe F Backeljauw
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
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Hwa V, Fujimoto M, Zhu G, Gao W, Foley C, Kumbaji M, Rosenfeld RG. Genetic causes of growth hormone insensitivity beyond GHR. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2021; 22:43-58. [PMID: 33029712 PMCID: PMC7979432 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-020-09603-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) syndrome, first described in 1966, is classically associated with monogenic defects in the GH receptor (GHR) gene which result in severe post-natal growth failure as consequences of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) deficiency. Over the years, recognition of other monogenic defects downstream of GHR has greatly expanded understanding of primary causes of GHI and growth retardation, with either IGF-I deficiency or IGF-I insensitivity as clinical outcomes. Mutations in IGF1 and signaling component STAT5B disrupt IGF-I production, while defects in IGFALS and PAPPA2, disrupt transport and release of circulating IGF-I, respectively, affecting bioavailability of the growth-promoting IGF-I. Defects in IGF1R, cognate cell-surface receptor for IGF-I, disrupt not only IGF-I actions, but actions of the related IGF-II peptides. The importance of IGF-II for normal developmental growth is emphasized with recent identification of defects in the maternally imprinted IGF2 gene. Current application of next-generation genomic sequencing has expedited the pace of identifying new molecular defects in known genes or in new genes, thereby expanding the spectrum of GH and IGF insensitivity. This review discusses insights gained and future directions from patient-based molecular and functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Hwa
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Masanobu Fujimoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Pediatrics and Perinatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 36-1 Nishi-Cho, Yonago, 683-8504, Japan
| | - Gaohui Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 40014, China
| | - Wen Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Corinne Foley
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Meenasri Kumbaji
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Ron G Rosenfeld
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horacio M Domené
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET-FEI-División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Jan M Wit
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Stuart J Frank
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham VAMC Medical Service, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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21
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Malaquias AC, Jorge AAL. Activation of the MAPK pathway (RASopathies) and partial growth hormone insensitivity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 519:111040. [PMID: 33011209 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RASopathies are a heterogeneous group of syndromes caused by germline mutations in genes encoding components of the RAS/MAPK pathway. Postnatal short stature is a cardinal feature of the RASopathies. Although the pathophysiology of these conditions is not fully understood to date, growth hormone insensitivity is one possibility, based on the observation of low IGF-1 values, generally preserved GH secretion and suboptimal growth response to recombinant human GH therapy. In this review, we will discuss the clinical and experimental evidence of GH insensitivity in patients with Noonan syndrome and other RASopathies, as well as their molecular basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexsandra C Malaquias
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular LIM25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Unidade de Endocrinologia Pediátrica, Departamento de Pediatria, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexander A L Jorge
- Unidade de Endocrinologia Genética, Laboratório de Endocrinologia Celular e Molecular LIM25, Disciplina de Endocrinologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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22
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Reiter EO, Cohen LE, Rogol AD. Editorial: History of Growth Hormone: Animal to Human. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:793272. [PMID: 34803934 PMCID: PMC8595236 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.793272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Edward O. Reiter
- Department of Pediatrics, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA, United States
| | - Laurie E. Cohen
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Alan D. Rogol
- Pediatrics/Endocrinology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Alan D. Rogol,
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Li R, Gong F, Pan H, Liang H, Miao H, Zhao Y, Duan L, Yang H, Wang L, Chen S, Zhu H. Identification and In Vitro Functional Verification of Two Novel Mutations of GHR Gene in the Chinese Children with Laron Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:605736. [PMID: 33912130 PMCID: PMC8072467 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.605736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Laron syndrome (LS) is a severe growth disorder caused by GHR gene mutation or post-receptor pathways defect. The clinical features of these patients collected in our present study were summarized, GHR gene variants were investigated and further in vitro functional verification was carried out. METHODS Four patients with LS were collected, their clinical characteristics were summarized, genomic DNA was extracted, and GHR gene was amplified and sequenced. GHR wild type (GHR-WT) and mutant GHR expression plasmids were constructed, and transiently transfected into HepG2 cells and HEK293T cells to observe the subcellular distribution of the GHR protein by immunofluorescence and to determine the expression of GHR and its post-receptor signaling pathway changes by Western blotting. RESULTS All of the four patients were male, and the median height was -4.72 SDS. Four GHR gene variants including c.587A>C (p.Y196S), c.766C>T (p.Q256*), c.808A>G (p.I270V) and c.1707-1710del (p.E570Afs*30) were identified, and the latter two were novel mutations. The results of mutant GHR plasmids transfection experiments and immunofluorescence assay showed that the subcellular distribution of GHR-Q256* and GHR-E570Afs*30 mutant proteins in HepG2 and HEK293T cells presented with a unique ring-like pattern, gathering around the nucleus, while GHR-Y196S mutant protein was evenly distributed on HepG2 cell membrane similar to GHR-WT. The GHR protein levels of HepG2 cells transiently transfected with GHR-Y196S, GHR-Q256* and GHR-E570Afs*30 were all significantly lower when compared with cells transfected with GHR-WT (P<0.05). Further mutant GHR post-receptor signal transduction investigation demonstrated that GH induced phosphorylated STAT5 levels of HepG2 cells transfected with three mutant plasmids were all significantly decreased in comparison with that of GHR-WT (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Two novel GHR gene mutations (I270V and E570Afs*30) were found in our patients with LS. GHR mutations influenced the subcellular distribution and GHR protein levels, then led to the impaired post-receptor signal transduction, suggesting that the GHR mutations contributed to the pathological condition of LS patients.
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Domené S, Domené HM. The role of acid-labile subunit (ALS) in the modulation of GH-IGF-I action. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:111006. [PMID: 32861700 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Acid-labile subunit (ALS) deficiency (ACLSD) constitutes the first monogenic defect involving a member of the Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) binding protein system. The lack of ALS completely disrupts the circulating IGF system. Autocrine/paracrine action of local produced IGF-I could explain the mild effect on growth. In the present work we have revised the more relevant clinical and biochemical consequences of complete ACLSD in 61 reported subjects from 31 families. Low birth weight and/or length, reduced head circumference, height between -2 and -3 SD, pubertal delay and insulin resistance are commonly observed. Partial ACLSD could be present in children initially labeled as idiopathic short stature, presenting low IGF-I levels, suggesting that one functional IGFALS allele is insufficient to stabilize ternary complexes. Dysfunction of the GH-IGF axis observed in ACLSD may eventually result in increased risk for type-2 diabetes and tumor progression. Consequently, long term surveillance is recommended in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Domené
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr César Bergadá', (CEDIE) CONICET, FEI, División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Horacio M Domené
- 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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Cottrell E, Cabrera CP, Ishida M, Chatterjee S, Greening J, Wright N, Bossowski A, Dunkel L, Deeb A, Basiri IA, Rose SJ, Mason A, Bint S, Ahn JW, Hwa V, Metherell LA, Moore GE, Storr HL. Rare CNVs provide novel insights into the molecular basis of GH and IGF-1 insensitivity. Eur J Endocrinol 2020; 183:581-595. [PMID: 33055295 PMCID: PMC7592635 DOI: 10.1530/eje-20-0474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Copy number variation (CNV) has been associated with idiopathic short stature, small for gestational age and Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS). It has not been extensively investigated in growth hormone insensitivity (GHI; short stature, IGF-1 deficiency and normal/high GH) or previously in IGF-1 insensitivity (short stature, high/normal GH and IGF-1). DESIGN AND METHODS Array comparative genomic hybridisation was performed with ~60 000 probe oligonucleotide array in GHI (n = 53) and IGF-1 insensitivity (n = 10) subjects. Published literature, mouse models, DECIPHER CNV tracks, growth associated GWAS loci and pathway enrichment analyses were used to identify key biological pathways/novel candidate growth genes within the CNV regions. RESULTS Both cohorts were enriched for class 3-5 CNVs (7/53 (13%) GHI and 3/10 (30%) IGF-1 insensitivity patients). Interestingly, 6/10 (60%) CNV subjects had diagnostic/associated clinical features of SRS. 5/10 subjects (50%) had CNVs previously reported in suspected SRS: 1q21 (n = 2), 12q14 (n = 1) deletions and Xp22 (n = 1), Xq26 (n = 1) duplications. A novel 15q11 deletion, previously associated with growth failure but not SRS/GHI was identified. Bioinformatic analysis identified 45 novel candidate growth genes, 15 being associated with growth in GWAS. The WNT canonical pathway was enriched in the GHI cohort and CLOCK was identified as an upstream regulator in the IGF-1 insensitivity cohorts. CONCLUSIONS Our cohort was enriched for low frequency CNVs. Our study emphasises the importance of CNV testing in GHI and IGF-1 insensitivity patients, particularly GHI subjects with SRS features. Functional experimental evidence is now required to validate the novel candidate growth genes, interactions and biological pathways identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cottrell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Claudia P Cabrera
- Centre for Translational Bioinformatics, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- NIHR Barts Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Centre, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Miho Ishida
- University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Sumana Chatterjee
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - James Greening
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Neil Wright
- The University of Sheffield Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, Sheffield, UK
| | - Artur Bossowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrinology and Diabetes with a Cardiology Unit, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Leo Dunkel
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Asma Deeb
- Paediatric Endocrinology Department, Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Stephen J Rose
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Vivian Hwa
- Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Gudrun E Moore
- University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to H L Storr;
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Gutiérrez M. Activating mutations of STAT3: Impact on human growth. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110979. [PMID: 32818584 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 is the most ubiquitous member of the STAT family and fulfills fundamental functions in immune and non-immune cells. Mutations in the STAT3 gene lead to different human diseases. Germline STAT3 activating or gain-of-function (GOF) mutations result in early-onset multiorgan autoimmunity, lymphoproliferation, recurrent infections and short stature. Since the first description of the disease, the clinical manifestations of STAT3 GOF mutations have expanded considerably. However, due to the complexity of immunological characteristics in patients carrying STAT3 GOF mutations, most of attention was focused on the immune alterations. This review summarizes current knowledge on STAT3 GOF mutations with special focus on the growth defects, since short stature is a predominant feature in this condition. Underlying mechanisms of STAT3 GOF disease are still poorly understood, and potential effects of STAT3 GOF mutations on the growth hormone signaling pathway are unclear. Functional studies of STAT3 GOF mutations and the broadening of clinical growth-related data in these patients are necessary to better delineate implications of STAT3 GOF mutations on growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Gutiérrez
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE) CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños R. Gutiérrez, Gallo 1360, Buenos Aires, CP1425EFD, Argentina.
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Forbes BE, Blyth AJ, Wit JM. Disorders of IGFs and IGF-1R signaling pathways. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:111035. [PMID: 32941924 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system comprises two ligands, IGF-I and IGF-II, that regulate multiple physiological processes, including mammalian development, metabolism and growth, through the type 1 IGF receptor (IGF-1R). The growth hormone (GH)-IGF-I axis is the major regulator of longitudinal growth. IGF-II is expressed in many tissues, notably the placenta, to regulate human pre- and post-natal growth and development. This review provides a brief introduction to the IGF system and summarizes findings from reports arising from recent larger genomic sequencing studies of human genetic mutations in IGF1 and IGF2 and genes of proteins regulating IGF action, namely the IGF-1R, IGF-1R signaling pathway components and the IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs). A perspective on the effect of homozygous mutations on structure and function of the IGFs and IGF-1R is also given and this is related to the effects on growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briony E Forbes
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Australia.
| | - Andrew J Blyth
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Australia
| | - Jan M Wit
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Bartell E, Fujimoto M, Khoury JC, Khoury PR, Vedantam S, Astley CM, Hirschhorn JN, Dauber A. Protein QTL analysis of IGF-I and its binding proteins provides insights into growth biology. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 29:2625-2636. [PMID: 32484228 PMCID: PMC7471503 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is integral to human growth. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified variants associated with height and located near the genes in this pathway. However, mechanisms underlying these genetic associations are not understood. To investigate the regulation of the genes in this pathway and mechanisms by which regulation could affect growth, we performed GWAS of measured serum protein levels of IGF-I, IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3), pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A2), IGF-II and IGFBP-5 in 838 children (3-18 years) from the Cincinnati Genomic Control Cohort. We identified variants associated with protein levels near IGFBP3 and IGFBP5 genes, which contain multiple signals of association with height and other skeletal growth phenotypes. Surprisingly, variants that associate with protein levels at these two loci do not colocalize with height associations, confirmed through conditional analysis. Rather, the IGFBP3 signal (associated with total IGFBP-3 and IGF-II levels) colocalizes with an association with sitting height ratio (SHR); the IGFBP5 signal (associated with IGFBP-5 levels) colocalizes with birth weight. Indeed, height-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms near genes encoding other proteins in this pathway are not associated with serum levels, possibly excluding PAPP-A2. Mendelian randomization supports a stronger causal relationship of measured serum levels with SHR (for IGFBP-3) and birth weight (for IGFBP-5) than with height. In conclusion, we begin to characterize the genetic regulation of serum levels of IGF-related proteins in childhood. Furthermore, our data strongly suggest the existence of growth-regulating mechanisms acting through IGF-related genes in ways that are not reflected in measured serum levels of the corresponding proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Bartell
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Masanobu Fujimoto
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Division of Pediatrics and Perinatology, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Tottori 683-8504, Japan
| | - Jane C Khoury
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Philip R Khoury
- Heart Institute Research Core, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Sailaja Vedantam
- Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christina M Astley
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joel N Hirschhorn
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrew Dauber
- Division of Endocrinology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20052, USA
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Rughani A, Zhang D, Vairamani K, Dauber A, Hwa V, Krishnan S. Severe growth failure associated with a novel heterozygous nonsense mutation in the GHR transmembrane domain leading to elevated growth hormone binding protein. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2020; 92:331-337. [PMID: 31883394 PMCID: PMC7172700 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report a novel mutation in GHR and to characterize a novel mechanism of nonclassical growth hormone insensitivity. CONTEXT Laron syndrome (LS) is a well-described disorder of growth hormone insensitivity due to mutations in the growth hormone receptor (GHR) that leads to short stature. Biochemically, LS patients classically have elevated levels of growth hormone (GH), but low levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-3 and GH binding protein (GHBP). DESIGN Case presentation with in vitro functional studies. PATIENTS A young male Caucasian child with short stature was found to have growth hormone insensitivity manifested by elevated levels of GH and GHBP. MEASUREMENTS Growth hormone stimulation tests revealed baseline GH level of 20.9 µg/L and maximum stimulated GH level of 52.7 µg/L and GHBP level of 4868 pmol/L. GHR gene sequencing revealed a novel heterozygous nonsense mutation (c.800G > A, p.Trp267*) in the transmembrane domain of the receptor. Immunoblot analysis of transfected GHR p.Trp267* in HEK293 revealed inhibition of GH-induced STAT5 signalling that was overcome with increasing doses of recombinant human GH. RESULTS Using an in vitro model, we show that elevated levels of GHBP inhibit the action of GH. Furthermore, our studies demonstrate that this inhibition by GHBP can be overcome by increasing doses of recombinant human GH. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate in vitro that elevated levels of GHBP attenuate the effect of GH and inhibit GH-induced signalling, thereby leading to short stature. Though this inhibition was overcome in vitro with supraphysiologic doses of GH, significantly above endogenously available GH, it remains to be seen whether such an effect can be replicated in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Rughani
- Section of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Dongsheng Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Kanimozhi Vairamani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Oncology, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Andrew Dauber
- Division of Endocrinology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Vivian Hwa
- Division of Endocrinology, Cincinnati Center for Growth Disorders, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Sowmya Krishnan
- Section of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Backeljauw P. Therapy with recombinant human IGF-1 for children with primary insulin-like growth factor-I deficiency. Growth Horm IGF Res 2020; 51:22-26. [PMID: 31982729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy and safety of IGF-1 therapy in patients with severe primary IGF-I deficiency has been evaluated for more than two decades. Most of the therapeutic experience comes from treating the more severe IGF-I deficient patients, who usually present with a phenotype characteristic of growth hormone receptor deficiency or Laron syndrome. Although most of these patients do not experience enough catchup growth to bring their height into normal range, many individuals achieve an adult height significantly greater than what would have been predicted in the absence of IGF-1 therapy. In the last couple of years a few reports on the benefit of IGF-1 therapy for patients with milder types of IGF-I deficiency have also been published, with variable height outcomes. More short children with prior diagnosis of idiopathic short stature are now being diagnosed with specific molecular defects of the growth hormone/IGF-I axis. Because of this, the clinical spectrum of primary IGF-I deficiency is widening to include many patients with such a milder phenotype, creating a need for well-designed long-term clinical studies evaluating the growth response to growth promoting agents such as rhIGF-1 in these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Backeljauw
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Chatterjee S, Cottrell E, Rose SJ, Mushtaq T, Maharaj AV, Williams J, Savage MO, Metherell LA, Storr HL. GHR gene transcript heterogeneity may explain phenotypic variability in GHR pseudoexon (6Ψ) patients. Endocr Connect 2020; 9:EC-20-0026. [PMID: 32061156 PMCID: PMC7077524 DOI: 10.1530/ec-20-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The homozygous GH receptor (GHR) pseudoexon (6Ψ) mutation leads to growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) with clinical and biochemical heterogeneity. We investigated whether transcript heterogeneity (6Ψ-GHR to WT-GHR transcript ratio) and/or concurrent defects in other short stature (SS) genes contribute to this. METHODS 6Ψ-GHR and WT-GHR mRNA transcripts of 4 6Ψ patient (height SDS -4.2 to -3.1) and 1 control fibroblasts were investigated by RT-PCR. Transcripts were quantified by qRT-PCR and delta delta CT analysis and compared using ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. In eleven 6Ψ patients, 40 genes known to cause GHI/SS were analysed by targeted next generation sequencing. RESULTS RT-PCR confirmed 6Ψ-GHR transcript in the 6Ψ patients but not control. 6Ψ-GHR transcript levels were comparable in patients 1 and 3 but significantly different among all other patients. The mean 6Ψ:WT transcript ratios ranged from 29-71:1 for patients 1-4 and correlated negatively with height SDS (R=-0.85; p<0.001). Eight deleterious variants in 6 genes were detected but the number of gene hits did not correlate with the degree of SS in individual 6Ψ patients. CONCLUSION Variable amounts of 6Ψ- and WT-GHR transcripts were identified in 6Ψ patients but no 6Ψ transcript was present in the control. Higher 6Ψ:WT GHR transcript ratio correlated with SS severity and may explain the phenotypic variability. Analysis of known SS genes suggested that phenotypic variation is independent of the genetic background. This is the first report of transcript heterogeneity producing a spectrum of clinical phenotypes in different individuals harbouring an identical homozygous genetic mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumana Chatterjee
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Emily Cottrell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stephen J Rose
- Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Avinaash V Maharaj
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Jack Williams
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Helen L Storr
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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