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Gazzin A, Fornari F, Cardaropoli S, Carli D, Tartaglia M, Ferrero GB, Mussa A. Exploring New Drug Repurposing Opportunities for MEK Inhibitors in RASopathies: A Comprehensive Review of Safety, Efficacy, and Future Perspectives of Trametinib and Selumetinib. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:731. [PMID: 38929714 PMCID: PMC11204468 DOI: 10.3390/life14060731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The RASopathies are a group of syndromes caused by genetic variants that affect the RAS-MAPK signaling pathway, which is essential for cell response to diverse stimuli. These variants functionally converge towards the overactivation of the pathway, leading to various constitutional and mosaic conditions. These syndromes show overlapping though distinct clinical presentations and share congenital heart defects, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and lymphatic dysplasia as major clinical features, with highly variable prevalence and severity. Available treatments have mainly been directed to target the symptoms. However, repurposing MEK inhibitors (MEKis), which were originally developed for cancer treatment, to target evolutive aspects occurring in these disorders is a promising option. Animal models have shown encouraging results in treating various RASopathy manifestations, including HCM and lymphatic abnormalities. Clinical reports have also provided first evidence supporting the effectiveness of MEKi, especially trametinib, in treating life-threatening conditions associated with these disorders. Nevertheless, despite notable improvements, there are adverse events that occur, necessitating careful monitoring. Moreover, there is evidence indicating that multiple pathways can contribute to these disorders, indicating a current need to more accurate understand of the underlying mechanism of the disease to apply an effective targeted therapy. In conclusion, while MEKi holds promise in managing life-threatening complications of RASopathies, dedicated clinical trials are required to establish standardized treatment protocols tailored to take into account the individual needs of each patient and favor a personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gazzin
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Clinical Pediatrics Genetics Unit, Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Fornari
- Postgraduate School of Pediatrics, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Cardaropoli
- Postgraduate School of Pediatrics, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Diana Carli
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Molecular Genetics and Functional Genomics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Mussa
- Clinical Pediatrics Genetics Unit, Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
- Postgraduate School of Pediatrics, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
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Na B, Shah SR, Vasudevan HN. Past, Present, and Future Therapeutic Strategies for NF-1-Associated Tumors. Curr Oncol Rep 2024; 26:706-713. [PMID: 38709422 PMCID: PMC11169015 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-024-01527-4] [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] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) is a cancer predisposition syndrome caused by mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene that encodes the neurofibromin protein, which functions as a negative regulator of Ras signaling. We review the past, current, and future state of therapeutic strategies for tumors associated with NF-1. RECENT FINDINGS Therapeutic efforts for NF-1-associated tumors have centered around inhibiting Ras output, leading to the clinical success of downstream MEK inhibition for plexiform neurofibromas and low-grade gliomas. However, MEK inhibition and similar molecular monotherapy approaches that block Ras signaling do not work for all patients and show limited efficacy for more aggressive cancers such as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors and high-grade gliomas, motivating novel treatment approaches. We highlight the current therapeutic landscape for NF-1-associated tumors, broadly categorizing treatment into past strategies for serial Ras pathway blockade, current approaches targeting parallel oncogenic and tumor suppressor pathways, and future avenues of investigation leveraging biologic and technical innovations in immunotherapy, pharmacology, and gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Na
- Department of Neurology, UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Shilp R Shah
- Samueli School of Engineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Harish N Vasudevan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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Mazur-Lainé E, Soubata H, Leclerc JB, Blanchet PJ, O’Connor KP, Lavoie ME. Impacts of ADHD Symptomatology on the Response to Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy with Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome Patients. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2975. [PMID: 38792517 PMCID: PMC11122476 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics. Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common comorbidity of TS that adds further impairment. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) has shown efficacy in treating tics, yet its effectiveness in individuals with TS and comorbid ADHD remains unclear. Also, it is suggested that ADHD characteristics like executive dysfunction and inattention could hinder the response to CBT. This study aims to compare the response to CBT for tics and its maintenance six months post-therapy among TS individuals with and without ADHD symptoms. (2) Methods: In this study, 55 TS participants who completed 14-week CBT for tics were split into high (TS+) or low (TS-) ADHD symptomatology groups. Outcomes were evaluated using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) regarding global tic severity and motor and vocal tic frequency post-CBT and at a 6-month follow-up. (3) Results: No significant group difference was found regarding improvements post-CBT (n = 55), nor the maintenance six months later (n = 45). (4) Conclusions: ADHD symptoms may not hinder the response to CBT or its maintenance, suggesting that TS individuals with ADHD symptoms may not require specialized CBT interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Mazur-Lainé
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Houda Soubata
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Julie B. Leclerc
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H2X 3P2, Canada
- Groupe d’étude sur les Troubles Tic, d’Accumulation Compulsive et Obsessionnel-Compulsif (GE-tic-tac-toc), Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CIUSSS du Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC H4J 1C5, Canada
| | - Pierre J. Blanchet
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Département de Stomatologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Kieron P. O’Connor
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Groupe d’étude sur les Troubles Tic, d’Accumulation Compulsive et Obsessionnel-Compulsif (GE-tic-tac-toc), Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada
- Département de Psychiatrie et Addictologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Marc E. Lavoie
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada; (E.M.-L.); (H.S.); (J.B.L.); (P.J.B.); (K.P.O.)
- Groupe d’étude sur les Troubles Tic, d’Accumulation Compulsive et Obsessionnel-Compulsif (GE-tic-tac-toc), Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada
- Département de Psychiatrie et Addictologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- Département de Sciences Humaines, Lettres et Communication, Université TÉLUQ, Quebec, QC G1K 9H6, Canada
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Miyagishima KJ, Qiao F, Stasheff SF, Nadal-Nicolás FM. Visual Deficits and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies for Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Bridging Science and Patient-Centered Care. Vision (Basel) 2024; 8:31. [PMID: 38804352 PMCID: PMC11130890 DOI: 10.3390/vision8020031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder primarily affecting children and adolescents characterized by multisystemic clinical manifestations. Mutations in neurofibromin, the protein encoded by the Nf1 tumor suppressor gene, result in dysregulation of the RAS/MAPK pathway leading to uncontrolled cell growth and migration. Neurofibromin is highly expressed in several cell lineages including melanocytes, glial cells, neurons, and Schwann cells. Individuals with NF1 possess a genetic predisposition to central nervous system neoplasms, particularly gliomas affecting the visual pathway, known as optic pathway gliomas (OPGs). While OPGs are typically asymptomatic and benign, they can induce visual impairment in some patients. This review provides insight into the spectrum and visual outcomes of NF1, current diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions, and explores the influence of NF1-OPGS on visual abnormalities. We focus on recent advancements in preclinical animal models to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of NF1 pathology and therapies targeting NF1-OPGs. Overall, our review highlights the involvement of retinal ganglion cell dysfunction and degeneration in NF1 disease, and the need for further research to transform scientific laboratory discoveries to improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoharu J. Miyagishima
- Retinal Neurophysiology Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (K.J.M.); (F.Q.); (S.F.S.)
| | - Fengyu Qiao
- Retinal Neurophysiology Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (K.J.M.); (F.Q.); (S.F.S.)
| | - Steven F. Stasheff
- Retinal Neurophysiology Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (K.J.M.); (F.Q.); (S.F.S.)
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Institute, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Neurology Department, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Francisco M. Nadal-Nicolás
- Retinal Neurophysiology Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (K.J.M.); (F.Q.); (S.F.S.)
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Lalancette E, Cantin É, Routhier MÈ, Mailloux C, Bertrand MC, Kiaei DS, Larouche V, Tabori U, Hawkins C, Ellezam B, Décarie JC, Théoret Y, Métras MÉ, McKeown T, Ospina LH, Vairy S, Ramaswamy V, Coltin H, Sultan S, Legault G, Bouffet É, Lafay-Cousin L, Hukin J, Erker C, Caru M, Dehaes M, Jabado N, Perreault S, Lippé S. Impact of trametinib on the neuropsychological profile of NF1 patients. J Neurooncol 2024; 167:447-454. [PMID: 38443693 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-024-04624-3] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of trametinib in the treatment of pediatric low-grade gliomas (PLGG) and plexiform neurofibroma (PN) is being investigated in an ongoing multicenter phase II trial (NCT03363217). Preliminary data shows potential benefits with significant response in the majority of PLGG and PN and an overall good tolerance. Moreover, possible benefits of MEK inhibitor therapy on cognitive functioning in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) were recently shown which supports the need for further evaluation. METHODS Thirty-six patients with NF1 (age range 3-19 years) enrolled in the phase II study of trametinib underwent a neurocognitive assessment at inclusion and at completion of the 72-week treatment. Age-appropriate Wechsler Intelligence Scales and the Trail Making Test (for children over 8 years old) were administered at each assessment. Paired t-tests and Reliable Change Index (RCI) analyses were performed to investigate change in neurocognitive outcomes. Regression analyses were used to investigate the contribution of age and baseline score in the prediction of change. RESULTS Stable performance on neurocognitive tests was revealed at a group-level using paired t-tests. Clinically significant improvements were however found on specific indexes of the Wechsler intelligence scales and Trail Making Test, using RCI analyses. No significant impact of age on cognitive change was evidenced. However, lower initial cognitive performance was associated with increased odds of presenting clinically significant improvements on neurocognitive outcomes. CONCLUSION These preliminary results show a potential positive effect of trametinib on cognition in patients with NF1. We observed significant improvements in processing speed, visuo-motor and verbal abilities. This study demonstrates the importance of including neuropsychological evaluations into clinical trial when using MEK inhibitors for patients with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve Lalancette
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Édith Cantin
- Division of Neuropsychology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Routhier
- Division of Neuropsychology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Mailloux
- Division of Neuropsychology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Bertrand
- Division of Neuropsychology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dorsa Sadat Kiaei
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Larouche
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Uri Tabori
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cynthia Hawkins
- Department of Pathology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Benjamin Ellezam
- Department of Pathology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Décarie
- Department of Radiology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Yves Théoret
- Department of Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Élaine Métras
- Department of Pharmacology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tara McKeown
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Luis H Ospina
- Department of Ophthalmology, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphanie Vairy
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, CHU Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hallie Coltin
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, CHU Sainte Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Serge Sultan
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Geneviève Legault
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Éric Bouffet
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lucie Lafay-Cousin
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Alberta Children's Hospital, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Juliette Hukin
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Neurology and Oncology, BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BCBC, Canada
| | - Craig Erker
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Maxime Caru
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Pennsylvania State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Mathieu Dehaes
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Nada Jabado
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, McGill University Health Center, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sébastien Perreault
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah Lippé
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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Pardej SK, Casnar CL, Yund BD, Klein-Tasman BP. An evaluation of computerized attention and executive function measures for use with school age children with neurofibromatosis type 1. Child Neuropsychol 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38214530 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2024.2302634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigated the performance of children with neurofibromatosis type 1 on computerized assessments of attention and executive function. Relations to ADHD symptomatology were also examined. Participants included 37 children (20 male) with NF1 (9-13 years; Mage = 11.02). Participants completed the NIH Toolbox Dimensional Change Card Sort, List Sort Working Memory (LSWM), and Flanker tasks, as well as Cogstate Identification and One Back tests. ADHD symptomatology was assessed using the K-SADS. Average performance was significantly different from the normative mean on every measure, except LSWM. The NIH Toolbox Flanker and Cogstate Identification tasks detected the highest proportion of participants with at least mild difficulty, and the Cogstate Identification task detected the highest proportion of participants with severe difficulty. Analyses revealed significant relations with ADHD symptomatology for two NIH toolbox tasks. The various computerized measures of attention and executive function offer different information when working with school age children with NF1. The NIH Flanker may offer the most room for change and offers face validity, which may be beneficial for clinical trials research. However, the LSWM shows most support for relations with behavioral indicators of attention and executive challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara K Pardej
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Brianna D Yund
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Pierpont EI. A dimensional approach to neurodevelopmental differences in genetically well-defined populations: What's next? Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:1420-1421. [PMID: 37130209 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This commentary is on the original article by Naylor et al. on pages 1520–1529 of this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth I Pierpont
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Pillay-Smiley N, Fletcher JS, de Blank P, Ratner N. Shedding New Light: Novel Therapies for Common Disorders in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type I. Pediatr Clin North Am 2023; 70:937-950. [PMID: 37704352 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.05.007] [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] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is a common dominantly inherited disorder, and one of the most common of the RASopathies. Most individuals with NF1 develop plexiform neurofibromas and cutaneous neurofibromas, nerve tumors caused by NF1 loss of function in Schwann cells. Cell culture models and mouse models of NF1 are being used to test drug efficacy in preclinical trials, which led to Food and Drug Administration approval for use of MEK inhibitors to shrink most inoperable plexiform neurofibromas. This article details methods used for testing in preclinical models, and outlines newer models that may identify additional, curative, strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Pillay-Smiley
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-0731, USA; Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jonathan S Fletcher
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-0731, USA; Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Current Address: Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Peter de Blank
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-0731, USA; Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-0731, USA; Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
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Doherty AC, Huddleston DA, Horn PS, Ratner N, Simpson BN, Schorry EK, Aschbacher-Smith L, Prada CE, Gilbert DL. Motor Function and Physiology in Youth With Neurofibromatosis Type 1. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 143:34-43. [PMID: 36996759 PMCID: PMC10228140 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.02.014] [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: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic neurocutaneous disorder commonly associated with motor and cognitive symptoms that greatly impact quality of life. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can quantify motor cortex physiology, reflecting the basis for impaired motor function as well as, possibly, clues for mechanisms of effective treatment. We hypothesized that children with NF1 have impaired motor function and altered motor cortex physiology compared to typically developing (TD) control children and children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS Children aged 8-17 years with NF1 (n = 21) were compared to children aged 8-12 years with ADHD (n = 59) and TD controls (n = 88). Motor development was assessed using the Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs (PANESS) scale. The balance of inhibition and excitation in motor cortex was assessed using the TMS measures short-interval cortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF). Measures were compared by diagnosis and tested using bivariate correlations and regression for association with clinical characteristics. RESULTS In NF1, ADHD severity scores were intermediate between the ADHD and TD cohorts, but total PANESS scores were markedly elevated (worse) compared to both (P < 0.001). Motor cortex ICF (excitatory) was significantly lower in NF1 than in TD and ADHD (P < 0.001), but SICI (inhibitory) did not differ. However, in NF1, better PANESS scores correlated with lower SICI ratios (more inhibition; ρ = 0.62, P = 0.003) and lower ICF ratios (less excitation; ρ = 0.38, P = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS TMS-evoked SICI and ICF may reflect processes underlying abnormal motor function in children with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C Doherty
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - David A Huddleston
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Paul S Horn
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology - Rasopathy Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Brittany N Simpson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth K Schorry
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Carlos E Prada
- Division of Genetics, Ann & Robert Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Donald L Gilbert
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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10
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Pillay-Smiley N, Leach J, Lane A, Hummel T, Fangusaro J, de Blank P. Evaluating Focal Areas of Signal Intensity (FASI) in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type-1 (NF1) Treated with Selumetinib on Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC)-029B. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072109. [PMID: 37046770 PMCID: PMC10092996 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding the effect of selumetinib on FASI may help elucidate the biology, proliferative potential, and role in neurocognitive changes for these NF1-associated lesions. Methods: Patients with NF1-associated LGG and FASI treated with selumetinib on PBTC-029B were age-matched to untreated patients with NF1-associated FASI at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Paired bidirectional measurements were compared over time using nonparametric tests. Results: Sixteen age-matched pairs were assessed (age range: 2.8–16.9 years, 60% male). Initial FASI burden was not different between groups (median range 138.7 cm2 [88.4–182.0] for the treated subjects vs. 121.6 cm2 [79.6—181.9] for the untreated subjects; p = 0.98). Over a mean follow-up of 18.9 (±5.9) months, the LGG size consistently decreased with treatment while no consistent change among the treated or untreated FASI size was seen. At the paired time points, the median treated LGG decreased significantly more than the treated FASI (−41.3% (LGG) versus −10.7% (FASI), p = 0.006). However, there was no difference in the median size change in the treated versus untreated FASI (−10.7% (treated FASI) versus −17.9% (untreated FASI), p = 0.08). Among the treated subjects, there was no correlation between the change in LGG and FASI (r = −0.04, p = 0.88). Conclusions: Treatment with selumetinib did not affect the overall FASI size in children with NF1 treated for progressive low-grade glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Pillay-Smiley
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - James Leach
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Adam Lane
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Trent Hummel
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Aflac Cancer Center, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory, University School of Medicine, Atlanta GA 30322, USA
| | - Peter de Blank
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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11
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Manoharan N, Liu KX, Mueller S, Haas-Kogan DA, Bandopadhayay P. Pediatric low-grade glioma: Targeted therapeutics and clinical trials in the molecular era. Neoplasia 2022; 36:100857. [PMID: 36566593 PMCID: PMC9803951 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2022.100857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
pLGGs are a group of tumors for which the era of molecular diagnostics has truly shifted treatment paradigms and patient care. The discovery that this group of tumors is driven by single-gene alterations/fusions in the MAPK pathway has resulted in relatively rapid translation into targeted therapy options for patients with this often chronic disease. This translation has been facilitated through efforts of multiple collaboratives and consortia and has led to the development of clinical trials testing the role of targeted therapies in pLGG. Although these developments represent promise, many questions remain regarding these therapies including their long-term toxicities and their potential effects on the natural history of pLGG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neevika Manoharan
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia,School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Kevin X. Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabine Mueller
- Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Pediatrics, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daphne A. Haas-Kogan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pratiti Bandopadhayay
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Corresponding author.
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12
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de Blank PMK, Gross AM, Akshintala S, Blakeley JO, Bollag G, Cannon A, Dombi E, Fangusaro J, Gelb BD, Hargrave D, Kim A, Klesse LJ, Loh M, Martin S, Moertel C, Packer R, Payne JM, Rauen KA, Rios JJ, Robison N, Schorry EK, Shannon K, Stevenson DA, Stieglitz E, Ullrich NJ, Walsh KS, Weiss BD, Wolters PL, Yohay K, Yohe ME, Widemann BC, Fisher MJ. MEK inhibitors for neurofibromatosis type 1 manifestations: Clinical evidence and consensus. Neuro Oncol 2022; 24:1845-1856. [PMID: 35788692 PMCID: PMC9629420 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The wide variety of clinical manifestations of the genetic syndrome neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are driven by overactivation of the RAS pathway. Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitors (MEKi) block downstream targets of RAS. The recent regulatory approvals of the MEKi selumetinib for inoperable symptomatic plexiform neurofibromas in children with NF1 have made it the first medical therapy approved for this indication in the United States, the European Union, and elsewhere. Several recently published and ongoing clinical trials have demonstrated that MEKi may have potential benefits for a variety of other NF1 manifestations, and there is broad interest in the field regarding the appropriate clinical use of these agents. In this review, we present the current evidence regarding the use of existing MEKi for a variety of NF1-related manifestations, including tumor (neurofibromas, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, low-grade glioma, and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia) and non-tumor (bone, pain, and neurocognitive) manifestations. We discuss the potential utility of MEKi in related genetic conditions characterized by overactivation of the RAS pathway (RASopathies). In addition, we review practical treatment considerations for the use of MEKi as well as provide consensus recommendations regarding their clinical use from a panel of experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M K de Blank
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Andrea M Gross
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Ashley Cannon
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Eva Dombi
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Children's Hospital of Atlanta, Emory University and the Aflac Cancer Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Bruce D Gelb
- Department of Pediatrics and Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Darren Hargrave
- Department of Oncology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - AeRang Kim
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine and Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Laura J Klesse
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Mignon Loh
- Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Staci Martin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher Moertel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Roger Packer
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine and Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jonathan M Payne
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine A Rauen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Jonathan J Rios
- Center for Pediatric Bone Biology and Translational Research, Scottish Rite for Children, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Nathan Robison
- Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Schorry
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Kevin Shannon
- Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - David A Stevenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Elliot Stieglitz
- Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nicole J Ullrich
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Karin S Walsh
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine and Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Brian D Weiss
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Pamela L Wolters
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kaleb Yohay
- Department of Neurology and Pediatrics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marielle E Yohe
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Brigitte C Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael J Fisher
- Division of Oncology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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13
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Blok LER, Boon M, van Reijmersdal B, Höffler KD, Fenckova M, Schenck A. Genetics, molecular control and clinical relevance of habituation learning. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 143:104883. [PMID: 36152842 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Habituation is the most fundamental form of learning. As a firewall that protects our brain from sensory overload, it is indispensable for cognitive processes. Studies in humans and animal models provide increasing evidence that habituation is affected in autism and related monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). An integrated application of habituation assessment in NDDs and their animal models has unexploited potential for neuroscience and medical care. With the aim to gain mechanistic insights, we systematically retrieved genes that have been demonstrated in the literature to underlie habituation. We identified 258 evolutionarily conserved genes across species, describe the biological processes they converge on, and highlight regulatory pathways and drugs that may alleviate habituation deficits. We also summarize current habituation paradigms and extract the most decisive arguments that support the crucial role of habituation for cognition in health and disease. We conclude that habituation is a conserved, quantitative, cognition- and disease-relevant process that can connect preclinical and clinical work, and hence is a powerful tool to advance research, diagnostics, and treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Elisabeth Rosalie Blok
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Marina Boon
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Boyd van Reijmersdal
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Kira Daniela Höffler
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Michaela Fenckova
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branisovska 31, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Annette Schenck
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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14
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Miller AH, Halloran MC. Mechanistic insights from animal models of neurofibromatosis type 1 cognitive impairment. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:276464. [PMID: 36037004 PMCID: PMC9459395 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal-dominant neurogenetic disorder caused by mutations in the gene neurofibromin 1 (NF1). NF1 predisposes individuals to a variety of symptoms, including peripheral nerve tumors, brain tumors and cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive deficits can negatively impact patient quality of life, especially the social and academic development of children. The neurofibromin protein influences neural circuits via diverse cellular signaling pathways, including through RAS, cAMP and dopamine signaling. Although animal models have been useful in identifying cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate NF1-dependent behaviors, translating these discoveries into effective treatments has proven difficult. Clinical trials measuring cognitive outcomes in patients with NF1 have mainly targeted RAS signaling but, unfortunately, resulted in limited success. In this Review, we provide an overview of the structure and function of neurofibromin, and evaluate several cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurofibromin-dependent cognitive function, which have recently been delineated in animal models. A better understanding of neurofibromin roles in the development and function of the nervous system will be crucial for identifying new therapeutic targets for the various cognitive domains affected by NF1. Summary: Neurofibromin influences neural circuits through RAS, cAMP and dopamine signaling. Exploring the mechanisms underlying neurofibromin-dependent behaviors in animal models might enable future treatment of the various cognitive deficits that are associated with neurofibromatosis type 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Miller
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.,Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Mary C Halloran
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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15
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Sawyer C, Green J, Lim B, Pobric G, Jung J, Vassallo G, Evans DG, Stagg CJ, Parkes LM, Stivaros S, Muhlert N, Garg S. Neuroanatomical correlates of working memory performance in Neurofibromatosis 1. Cereb Cortex Commun 2022; 3:tgac021. [PMID: 35673329 PMCID: PMC9169056 DOI: 10.1093/texcom/tgac021] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a single-gene disorder associated with cognitive impairments, particularly with deficits in working memory. Prior research indicates that brain structure is affected in NF1, but it is unclear how these changes relate to aspects of cognition. Methods 29 adolescents aged 11-17 years were compared to age and sex-matched controls. NF1 subjects were assessed using detailed multimodal measurements of working memory at baseline followed by a 3T MR scan. A voxel-based morphometry approach was used to estimate the total and regional gray matter(GM) volumetric differences between the NF1 and control groups. The working memory metrics were subjected to a principal component analysis (PCA) approach. Results The NF1 groups showed increased gray matter volumes in the thalamus, corpus striatum, dorsal midbrain and cerebellum bilaterally in the NF1 group as compared to controls. Principal component analysis on the working memory metrics in the NF1 group yielded three independent factors reflecting high memory load, low memory load and auditory working memory. Correlation analyses revealed that increased volume of posterior cingulate cortex, a key component of the default mode network (DMN) was significantly associated with poorer performance on low working memory load tasks. Conclusion These results are consistent with prior work showing larger subcortical brain volumes in the NF1 cohort. The strong association between posterior cingulate cortex volume and performance on low memory load conditions supports hypotheses of deficient DMN structural development, which in turn may contribute to the cognitive impairments in NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Sawyer
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Green
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Lim
- Child & Adolescent Mental Health Department, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Gorana Pobric
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - JeYoung Jung
- School of Psychology, Precision Imaging Beacon, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Grace Vassallo
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - D Gareth Evans
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte J Stagg
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences & MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit, University of Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Laura M Parkes
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Stavros Stivaros
- Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre, Northern care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Stott Lane, Manchester M6 8HD, United Kingdom
| | - Nils Muhlert
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Shruti Garg
- Division of Neuroscience & Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
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16
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Grossen A, Gavula T, Chrusciel D, Evans A, McNall-Knapp R, Taylor A, Fossey B, Brakefield M, Carter C, Schwartz N, Gross N, Jea A, Desai V. Multidisciplinary neurocutaneous syndrome clinics: a systematic review and institutional experience. Neurosurg Focus 2022; 52:E2. [DOI: 10.3171/2022.2.focus21776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Neurocutaneous syndromes have variable multisystem involvement. The multiorgan involvement, potential pathologies, and various treatment options necessitate collaboration and open discussion to ensure optimal treatment in any given patient. These disorders provide quintessential examples of chronic medical conditions that require a lifelong, multidisciplinary approach. The objectives of this study were to 1) perform a systematic review, thoroughly assessing different multidisciplinary clinic layouts utilized in centers worldwide; and 2) characterize an institutional experience with the management of these conditions, focusing on the patient demographics, clinical presentation, complications, and therapeutic strategies seen in a patient population.
METHODS
A systematic review of studies involving multidisciplinary clinics and their reported structure was performed according to PRISMA guidelines using the PubMed database. Then a retrospective chart review of patients enrolled in the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital Neurocutaneous Syndromes Clinic was conducted.
RESULTS
A search of the PubMed database yielded 251 unique results. Of these, 15 papers were included in the analysis, which identified 16 clinics that treated more than 2000 patients worldwide. The majority of these clinics treated patients with neurofibromatosis (13/16). The remaining clinics treated patients with von Hippel–Lindau syndrome (n = 1), tuberous sclerosis complex (n = 1), and multiple neurocutaneous syndromes (n = 1). The most commonly represented subspecialties in these clinics were genetics (15/16) and neurology (13/16). Five clinics (31%) solely saw pediatric patients, 10 clinics saw a combination of children and adults, and the final clinic had separate pediatric and adult clinics. The retrospective chart review of the Neurocutaneous Syndromes Clinic demonstrated that 164 patients were enrolled and seen in the clinic from April 2013 to December 2021. Diagnoses were made based on clinical findings or results of genetic testing; 115 (70%) had neurofibromatosis type 1, 9 (5.5%) had neurofibromatosis type 2, 35 (21%) had tuberous sclerosis complex, 2 (1%) had von Hippel–Lindau syndrome, 2 (1%) had Gorlin syndrome, and the remaining patient (0.6%) had Aarskog-Scott syndrome. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, complications, and therapeutic strategies are also discussed.
CONCLUSIONS
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first detailed description of a comprehensive pediatric neurocutaneous clinic in the US that serves patients with multiple syndromes. There is currently heterogeneity between described multidisciplinary clinic structures and practices. More detailed accounts of clinic compositions and practices along with patient data and outcomes are needed in order to establish the most comprehensive and efficient multidisciplinary approach for neurocutaneous syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Grossen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Theresa Gavula
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Deepti Chrusciel
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and
| | - Alexander Evans
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Rene McNall-Knapp
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Ashley Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Benay Fossey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Margaret Brakefield
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Carrick Carter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Nadine Schwartz
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and
| | - Naina Gross
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Saint Francis Hospital, Tulsa, Oklahoma
| | - Andrew Jea
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Virendra Desai
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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