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Dratch L, Owczarzak J, Mu W, Cousins KAQ, Massimo L, Grossman M, Erby L. The lived experience of reconstructing identity in response to genetic risk of frontotemporal degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Genet Couns 2024; 33:515-527. [PMID: 37424394 PMCID: PMC10776796 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing availability of predictive genetic testing for adult-onset neurodegenerative conditions, it is imperative that we better understand the impact of learning one's risk status. Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) is the second most prevalent cause of early-onset dementia. About one-third of patients have an identifiable genetic etiology, and some genetic variants that cause FTD can also cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To understand individuals' risk perception and broader experience of living at risk, we completed semi-structured telephone interviews with 14 asymptomatic adults who tested positive for a variant known to cause risk for FTD and/or ALS. We conducted a thematic analysis, and within the core topic of identity, we derived three themes: conceptualization of FTD and ALS as a threat to identity, enduring uncertainty and dread, and varying centrality of risk status to identity. FTD and ALS risk raised fundamental issues for participants related to the essence of personhood, challenged them to confront Cartesian dualism (the philosophy of mind-body separation), and exposed how time, relationships, and social roles have affected their understanding of the nature of the self. Our findings provide important insight into how being at genetic risk shapes an individual's identity. We conclude that genetic counseling interventions that allow for identity exploration, anticipatory guidance, and uncertainty management should be utilized when supporting persons at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laynie Dratch
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jill Owczarzak
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Weiyi Mu
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Lauren Massimo
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Murray Grossman
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Lori Erby
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
- Center for Precision Health Research, NHGRI, NIH, Bethesda, MD
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Steigerwald CG, Bertolini C, McElhiney M, Bergner AL, Harms MB, Harrington EA. Individuals' experiences in genetic counseling and predictive testing for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Genet Couns 2024. [PMID: 38477424 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1890] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
As clinical genetic testing in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnostic setting increases, the identification of at-risk family members has also expanded. No practice guidelines specifically for predictive genetic testing exist, and few studies about the psychological impacts of testing in this subgroup have occurred, limiting the ability to tailor recommendations and counseling in this community. We surveyed asymptomatic individuals at risk for inheriting an ALS-associated gene mutation. The 80-question survey was designed using a combination of validated measures (General Anxiety Disorder; FACToR; Decision Regret Scale) and original items. Ninety participants completed the survey, including those who completed predictive genetic testing (N = 42) and those who did not (N = 48). Gene positive individuals experienced greater negativity, uncertainty, and overall psychological impairment (p = 0.002; p < 0.001; p = 0.001). Individuals who had not undergone testing reported thinking about their risk multiple times per day and experiencing more decisional regret than those who tested (p = 0.006). In terms of decision-making, being prepared for potential clinical drug trials was a more important potential benefit among those who underwent testing (p = 0.026). Participants valuing preparedness for clinical drug trials supports the concept that genetic testing for ALS will increase as research in gene-targeted therapeutics progresses. This study describes factors relevant to the genetic testing decision-making process and adaptation to results from the perspective of at-risk individuals, which can ultimately guide genetic counseling practice in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connolly G Steigerwald
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- Division of Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Carina Bertolini
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Martin McElhiney
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Amanda L Bergner
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- Department of Genetics and Development, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Matthew B Harms
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Harrington
- Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
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Van Wijk IF, Van Eijk RPA, Van Boxmeer L, Westeneng HJ, Van Es MA, Van Rheenen W, Van Den Berg LH, Eijkemans MJC, Veldink JH. Assessment of risk of ALS conferred by the GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9orf72 among first-degree relatives of patients with ALS carrying the repeat expansion. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024; 25:188-196. [PMID: 37861203 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2023.2272187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to estimate the age-related risk of ALS in first-degree relatives of patients with ALS carrying the C9orf72 repeat expansion. METHODS We included all patients with ALS carrying a C9orf72 repeat expansion in The Netherlands. Using structured questionnaires, we determined the number of first-degree relatives, their age at death due to ALS or another cause, or age at time of questionnaire. The cumulative incidence of ALS among first-degree relatives was estimated, while accounting for death from other causes. Variability in ALS risk between families was evaluated using a random effects hazards model. We used a second, distinct approach to estimate the risk of ALS and FTD in the general population, using previously published data. RESULTS In total, 214 of the 2,486 (9.2%) patients with ALS carried the C9orf72 repeat expansion. The mean risk of ALS at age 80 for first-degree relatives carrying the repeat expansion was 24.1%, but ranged between individual families from 16.0 to 60.6%. Using the second approach, we found the risk of ALS and FTD combined was 28.7% (95% CI 17.8%-54.3%) for carriers in the general population. CONCLUSIONS On average, our estimated risk of ALS in the C9orf72 repeat expansion was lower compared to historical estimates. We showed, however, that the risk of ALS likely varies between families and one overall penetrance estimate may not be sufficient to describe ALS risk. This warrants a tailor-made, patient-specific approach in testing. Further studies are needed to assess the risk of FTD in the C9orf72 repeat expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris F Van Wijk
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ruben P A Van Eijk
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Loes Van Boxmeer
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Henk-Jan Westeneng
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Michael A Van Es
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Wouter Van Rheenen
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Leonard H Van Den Berg
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marinus J C Eijkemans
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jan H Veldink
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands and
- Research support and Biostatistics, Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Stavros K. Genetic Myelopathies. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2024; 30:119-132. [PMID: 38330475 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article provides an overview of genetic myelopathies, a diverse group of inherited, degenerative conditions that may be broadly categorized as motor neuron disorders, disorders of spinocerebellar degeneration, leukodystrophies, and hereditary spastic paraplegia. Clinical examples from each category are provided to illustrate the spectrum of genetic myelopathies and their distinguishing features that aid in differentiating genetic myelopathies from potentially treatable acquired causes of myelopathy. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Advances in genetic testing have vastly enhanced current knowledge of genetic myelopathies and the ability to diagnose and provide appropriate counseling to patients and their families. However, potential health care disparities in access to genetic testing is a topic that must be further explored. Although treatment for most of these conditions is typically supportive, there have been recent therapeutic breakthroughs in treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Friedreich ataxia. ESSENTIAL POINTS Genetic myelopathies may present with chronic and progressive symptoms, a family history of similar symptoms, and involvement of other structures outside of the spinal cord. Imaging often shows spinal cord atrophy, but cord signal change is rare. Exclusion of reversible causes of myelopathy is a key step in the diagnosis. There are many different causes of genetic myelopathies, and in some cases, symptoms may overlap, which underscores the utility of genetic testing in confirming the precise underlying neurologic condition.
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Dratch L, Mu W, Wood EM, Morgan B, Massimo L, Clyburn C, Bardakjian T, Grossman M, Irwin DJ, Cousins KA. Evaluation of an educational conference for persons affected by hereditary frontotemporal degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 2:100108. [PMID: 37214502 PMCID: PMC10194235 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective There are limited studies exploring the support and education needs of individuals at-risk for or diagnosed with hereditary frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and/or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study evaluated a novel conference for this population to assess conference efficacy, probe how participants assessed relevant resources, and identify outstanding needs of persons at-risk/diagnosed. Methods We implemented a post-conference electronic survey that probed participants' satisfaction, prior experience with resources, and unmet needs. Along with multiple-choice, free-text items were included to gather qualitative context. Results Survey completion rate was 31% (115/376 attendees who were emailed the survey). There was positive interest in pursuing genetic counseling among eligible responders: 61% indicated they planned to seek genetic counseling because of the conference, which was significantly more than those who were undecided (21%) or did not plan to seek genetic counseling (18%). Qualitative data demonstrated need for additional education, support, and research opportunities. Conclusion Conference reactions indicate this is a valued resource. Results indicated the importance of raising awareness about existing resources, and the need for further resource development, especially for at-risk communities. Innovation While most resources are developed for caregivers' needs, this unique program targets at-risk individuals and unites ALS and FTD communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laynie Dratch
- Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Weiyi Mu
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | | | - Brianna Morgan
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Lauren Massimo
- Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Cynthia Clyburn
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Tanya Bardakjian
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Murray Grossman
- Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - David J. Irwin
- Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Katheryn A.Q. Cousins
- Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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6
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Corcia P, Vourc'h P, Bernard E, Cassereau J, Codron P, Fleury MC, Guy N, Mouzat K, Pradat PF, Soriani MH, Couratier P. French National Protocol for genetic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2023; 179:1020-1029. [PMID: 37735015 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2023.05.005] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Relationships between genes and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have been widely accepted since the first studies highlighting pathogenic mutations in the SOD1 gene 30years ago. Over the last three decades, scientific literature has clearly highlighted the central role played by genetic factors in the disease, in both clinics and pathophysiology, as well as in therapeutics. This implies that health professionals who care for patients with ALS are increasingly faced with patients and relatives eager to have answers to questions related to the role of genetic factors in the occurrence of the disease and the risk for their relatives to develop ALS. In order to address these public health issues, the French ALS network FILSLAN proposed to the Haute Autorité de santé (HAS) the drafting of a French National Protocol (PNDS) on ALS genetics. This PNDS was developed according to the "method for developing a national diagnosis and care protocol for rare diseases" published by the HAS in 2012 (methodological guide for PNDS available on the HAS website: http://www.has-sante.fr/). This document aims to provide the most recent data on the role of genes in ALS and to detail the implications for diagnosis and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Corcia
- CRMR SLA, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France; UMR 1253 iBrain, Tours, France.
| | - P Vourc'h
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Tours, France; Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France
| | | | | | - P Codron
- CRMR SLA, CHU d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - M-C Fleury
- CRC SLA, CHU de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - N Guy
- CRC SLA, CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - K Mouzat
- Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHU de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - P-F Pradat
- CRMR SLA, CHU Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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Roggenbuck J, Eubank BHF, Wright J, Harms MB, Kolb SJ. Evidence-based consensus guidelines for ALS genetic testing and counseling. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:2074-2091. [PMID: 37691292 PMCID: PMC10646996 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) gene discovery, ongoing gene therapy trials, and patient demand have driven increased use of ALS genetic testing. Despite this progress, the offer of genetic testing to persons with ALS is not yet "standard of care." Our primary goal is to develop clinical ALS genetic counseling and testing guidelines to improve and standardize genetic counseling and testing practice among neurologists, genetic counselors or any provider caring for persons with ALS. METHODS Core clinical questions were identified and a rapid review performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-P) 2015 method. Guideline recommendations were drafted and the strength of evidence for each recommendation was assessed by combining two systems: the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) System and the Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention (EGAPP). A modified Delphi approach was used to reach consensus among a group of content experts for each guideline statement. RESULTS A total of 35 guideline statements were developed. In summary, all persons with ALS should be offered single-step genetic testing, consisting of a C9orf72 assay, along with sequencing of SOD1, FUS, and TARDBP, at a minimum. The key education and genetic risk assessments that should be provided before and after testing are delineated. Specific guidance regarding testing methods and reporting for C9orf72 and other genes is provided for commercial laboratories. INTERPRETATION These evidence-based, consensus guidelines will support all stakeholders in the ALS community in navigating benefits and challenges of genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Roggenbuck
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal MedicineThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Breda H. F. Eubank
- Health & Physical Education Department, Faculty of Health, Community, & EducationMount Royal University4825 Mount Royal Gate SWCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Joshua Wright
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Matthew B. Harms
- Department of NeurologyColumbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and SurgeonsNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Stephen J. Kolb
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
- Department of Biological Chemistry & PharmacologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
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Chambers C, Lichten L, Crook A, Uhlmann WR, Dratch L. Incorporating Genetic Testing Into the Care of Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Frontotemporal Degeneration Spectrum Disorders. Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200201. [PMID: 37736067 PMCID: PMC10511270 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) spectrum disorders have a strong genetic component. Genetic counselors are a limited resource, and therefore, other providers must be prepared to integrate genetic testing into their practice. Recent Findings Recent ALS/FTD studies have demonstrated that lack of family history does not preclude a genetic etiology. The benefits of a genetic diagnosis have expanded to include the potential to treat; thus, genetic testing is increasingly recommended to be offered to all persons with ALS/FTD. Summary Offering genetic testing to persons with ALS/FTD spectrum disorders should be part of routine clinical neurologic care. All genetic testing should include discussion about the medical and psychosocial implications of testing for the patient and family members. Neurologists should be prepared to facilitate this process and recognize when referral to a genetic counselor is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Chambers
- Department of Neurology (CC), University of Virginia, Charlottesville; Emory University School of Medicine (LL), Atlanta, GA; Macquarie University (AC); University of Technology Syndey (AC), Australia; University of Michigan (WRU), Ann Arbor; University of Pennsylvania (LD), Philadelphia
| | - Lauren Lichten
- Department of Neurology (CC), University of Virginia, Charlottesville; Emory University School of Medicine (LL), Atlanta, GA; Macquarie University (AC); University of Technology Syndey (AC), Australia; University of Michigan (WRU), Ann Arbor; University of Pennsylvania (LD), Philadelphia
| | - Ashley Crook
- Department of Neurology (CC), University of Virginia, Charlottesville; Emory University School of Medicine (LL), Atlanta, GA; Macquarie University (AC); University of Technology Syndey (AC), Australia; University of Michigan (WRU), Ann Arbor; University of Pennsylvania (LD), Philadelphia
| | - Wendy R Uhlmann
- Department of Neurology (CC), University of Virginia, Charlottesville; Emory University School of Medicine (LL), Atlanta, GA; Macquarie University (AC); University of Technology Syndey (AC), Australia; University of Michigan (WRU), Ann Arbor; University of Pennsylvania (LD), Philadelphia
| | - Laynie Dratch
- Department of Neurology (CC), University of Virginia, Charlottesville; Emory University School of Medicine (LL), Atlanta, GA; Macquarie University (AC); University of Technology Syndey (AC), Australia; University of Michigan (WRU), Ann Arbor; University of Pennsylvania (LD), Philadelphia
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Eisenmenger LB, Peret A, Famakin BM, Spahic A, Roberts GS, Bockholt JH, Johnson KM, Paulsen JS. Vascular contributions to Alzheimer's disease. Transl Res 2023; 254:41-53. [PMID: 36529160 PMCID: PMC10481451 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Understanding the pathophysiology underlying AD is paramount for the management of individuals at risk of and suffering from AD. The vascular hypothesis stipulates a relationship between cardiovascular disease and AD-related changes although the nature of this relationship remains unknown. In this review, we discuss several potential pathological pathways of vascular involvement in AD that have been described including dysregulation of neurovascular coupling, disruption of the blood brain barrier, and reduced clearance of metabolite waste such as beta-amyloid, a toxic peptide considered the hallmark of AD. We will also discuss the two-hit hypothesis which proposes a 2-step positive feedback loop in which microvascular insults precede the accumulation of Aß and are thought to be at the origin of the disease development. At neuroimaging, signs of vascular dysfunction such as chronic cerebral hypoperfusion have been demonstrated, appearing early in AD, even before cognitive decline and alteration of traditional biomarkers. Cerebral small vessel disease such as cerebral amyloid angiopathy, characterized by the aggregation of Aß in the vessel wall, is highly prevalent in vascular dementia and AD patients. Current data is unclear whether cardiovascular disease causes, precipitates, amplifies, precedes, or simply coincides with AD. Targeted imaging tools to quantitatively evaluate the intracranial vasculature and longitudinal studies in individuals at risk for or in the early stages of the AD continuum could be critical in disentangling this complex relationship between vascular disease and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Eisenmenger
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Anthony Peret
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Bolanle M Famakin
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Alma Spahic
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Grant S Roberts
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jeremy H Bockholt
- Tri-Institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kevin M Johnson
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jane S Paulsen
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.
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Corcia P, Blasco H, Beltran S, Piegay AS, Vourc'h P. Treatment of hereditary amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2023; 179:54-60. [PMID: 36336493 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2022.09.001] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Currently, only four molecules can be prescribed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), of which only one is approved worldwide for this indication, riluzole. Although progress in the therapeutic field remains unsatisfactory, we have to notice that genetics have undergone impressive improvements over the last three decades and, by extension, our knowledge of ALS cases linked to a pathogenic mutation that accounts for 10% of all cases (either sporadic or familiar) and is currently called hereditary ALS (hALS). In many neurological diseases treatment targeting pathogenic genes have significatively improved the natural profile of the disease: this is perfectly illustrated for familial amyloid neuropathy and spinal muscular atrophy. Because of these findings and the urgent need to find a cure for ALS, many trials have focused on familial ALS targeting the four most important genes linked to the disease: C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP and FUS. We propose in this review an update on the perspectives of treatment that may be available in mid-term in hALS and will discuss in the last part the potential consequences for asymptomatic relatives of patients with a hALS and for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Corcia
- Centre Reference SLA, CHRU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France; UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, 10, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France.
| | - H Blasco
- Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France; UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, 10, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France
| | - S Beltran
- Centre Reference SLA, CHRU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France
| | - A S Piegay
- Centre Reference SLA, CHRU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France
| | - P Vourc'h
- Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France; UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, 10, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France
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11
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Shibata Y, Matsushima M, Kato M, Chang H, Nakamura K, Oda K, Yoshida K, Sekijima Y, Toda T, Yabe I. [National survey of presymptomatic genetic testing for adult-onset hereditary neuromuscular diseases-system development for after the establishment of therapies]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2022; 62:773-780. [PMID: 36184415 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001771] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As therapies for hereditary neuromuscular diseases are developed, the need for presymptomatic genetic testing and genetic counseling for early treatment is expected to increase. In Japan, there is no uniformly recommended protocol for presymptomatic genetic testing. In order to provide basic data for the establishment of a presymptomatic genetic testing system, we surveyed medical genetics departments in Japan about their current status (response rate: 67.4%). The questionnaire survey revealed that approximately 60% of facilities had established their own procedures for presymptomatic genetic testing, but the approaches used varied from facility to facility. The interview survey enabled us to identify the essential factors for the establishment of a presymptomatic genetic testing system for each case, each facility, and at the overall level. In the future, there is a need to develop a standardized protocol to help establish a presymptomatic genetic testing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Shibata
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Hokkaido University Hospital
| | - Masaaki Matsushima
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Hokkaido University Hospital
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Momoko Kato
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Hokkaido University Hospital
| | - Hyangri Chang
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital
| | - Katsuya Nakamura
- Center for Medical Genetics, Shinshu University Hospital
- Department of Medicine (Neurology and Rheumatology), Shinshu University School of Medicine
| | - Katsutoshi Oda
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital
| | - Kunihiro Yoshida
- Department of Neurology, Kakeyu Hospital, Kakeyu-Misayama Rehabilitation Center
| | - Yoshiki Sekijima
- Department of Medicine (Neurology and Rheumatology), Shinshu University School of Medicine
| | - Tatsushi Toda
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo
| | - Ichiro Yabe
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Hokkaido University Hospital
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
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12
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Benatar M, Wuu J, Andersen PM, Bucelli RC, Andrews JA, Otto M, Farahany NA, Harrington EA, Chen W, Mitchell AA, Ferguson T, Chew S, Gedney L, Oakley S, Heo J, Chary S, Fanning L, Graham D, Sun P, Liu Y, Wong J, Fradette S. Design of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 3 Trial of Tofersen Initiated in Clinically Presymptomatic SOD1 Variant Carriers: the ATLAS Study. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:1248-1258. [PMID: 35585374 PMCID: PMC9587202 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01237-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive research, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains a progressive and invariably fatal neurodegenerative disease. Limited knowledge of the underlying causes of ALS has made it difficult to target upstream biological mechanisms of disease, and therapeutic interventions are usually administered relatively late in the course of disease. Genetic forms of ALS offer a unique opportunity for therapeutic development, as genetic associations may reveal potential insights into disease etiology. Genetic ALS may also be amenable to investigating earlier intervention given the possibility of identifying clinically presymptomatic, at-risk individuals with causative genetic variants. There is increasing evidence for a presymptomatic phase of ALS, with biomarker data from the Pre-Symptomatic Familial ALS (Pre-fALS) study showing that an elevation in blood neurofilament light chain (NfL) precedes phenoconversion to clinically manifest disease. Tofersen is an investigational antisense oligonucleotide designed to reduce synthesis of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) protein through degradation of SOD1 mRNA. Informed by Pre-fALS and the tofersen clinical development program, the ATLAS study (NCT04856982) is designed to evaluate the impact of initiating tofersen in presymptomatic carriers of SOD1 variants associated with high or complete penetrance and rapid disease progression who also have biomarker evidence of disease activity (elevated plasma NfL). The ATLAS study will investigate whether tofersen can delay the emergence of clinically manifest ALS. To our knowledge, ATLAS is the first interventional trial in presymptomatic ALS and has the potential to yield important insights into the design and conduct of presymptomatic trials, identification, and monitoring of at-risk individuals, and future treatment paradigms in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Benatar
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Clinical Research Building, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Joanne Wuu
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Clinical Research Building, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Jinsy A Andrews
- The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Markus Otto
- Department of Neurology, Martin Luther University, Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | | | - Weiping Chen
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | | | - Toby Ferguson
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Sheena Chew
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Liz Gedney
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Sue Oakley
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Jeong Heo
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Sowmya Chary
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Laura Fanning
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | | | - Peng Sun
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Yingying Liu
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Janice Wong
- Biogen, 225 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
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13
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Martinez B, Peplow PV. MicroRNA expression in animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and potential therapeutic approaches. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:728-740. [PMID: 34472458 PMCID: PMC8530133 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.322431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A review of recent animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis showed a large number of miRNAs had altered levels of expression in the brain and spinal cord, motor neurons of spinal cord and brainstem, and hypoglossal, facial, and red motor nuclei and were mostly upregulated. Among the miRNAs found to be upregulated in two of the studies were miR-21, miR-155, miR-125b, miR-146a, miR-124, miR-9, and miR-19b, while those downregulated in two of the studies included miR-146a, miR-29, miR-9, and miR-125b. A change of direction in miRNA expression occurred in some tissues when compared (e.g., miR-29b-3p in cerebellum and spinal cord of wobbler mice at 40 days), or at different disease stages (e.g., miR-200a in spinal cord of SOD1(G93A) mice at 95 days vs. 108 and 112 days). In the animal models, suppression of miR-129-5p resulted in increased lifespan, improved muscle strength, reduced neuromuscular junction degeneration, and tended to improve motor neuron survival in the SOD1(G93A) mouse model. Suppression of miR-155 was also associated with increased lifespan, while lowering of miR-29a tended to improve lifespan in males and increase muscle strength in SOD1(G93A) mice. Overexpression of members of miR-17~92 cluster improved motor neuron survival in SOD1(G93A) mice. Treatment with an artificial miRNA designed to target hSOD1 increased lifespan and improved muscle strength in SOD1(G93A) animals. Further studies with animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are warranted to validate these findings and identify specific miRNAs whose suppression or directed against hSOD1 results in increased lifespan, improved muscle strength, reduced neuromuscular junction degeneration, and improved motor neuron survival in SOD1(G93A) animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Martinez
- Physical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy, Chemistry Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
- Department of Medicine, St. Georges University School of Medicine, Grenada
| | - Philip V. Peplow
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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14
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Benatar M, Wuu J, McHutchison C, Postuma RB, Boeve BF, Petersen R, Ross CA, Rosen H, Arias JJ, Fradette S, McDermott MP, Shefner J, Stanislaw C, Abrahams S, Cosentino S, Andersen PM, Finkel RS, Granit V, Grignon AL, Rohrer JD, McMillan CT, Grossman M, Al-Chalabi A, Turner MR. Preventing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: insights from pre-symptomatic neurodegenerative diseases. Brain 2022; 145:27-44. [PMID: 34677606 PMCID: PMC8967095 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been made in understanding the pre-symptomatic phase of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. While much is still unknown, advances in other neurodegenerative diseases offer valuable insights. Indeed, it is increasingly clear that the well-recognized clinical syndromes of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, spinal muscular atrophy and frontotemporal dementia are also each preceded by a pre-symptomatic or prodromal period of varying duration, during which the underlying disease process unfolds, with associated compensatory changes and loss of inherent system redundancy. Key insights from these diseases highlight opportunities for discovery in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The development of biomarkers reflecting amyloid and tau has led to a shift in defining Alzheimer's disease based on inferred underlying histopathology. Parkinson's disease is unique among neurodegenerative diseases in the number and diversity of non-genetic biomarkers of pre-symptomatic disease, most notably REM sleep behaviour disorder. Huntington's disease benefits from an ability to predict the likely timing of clinically manifest disease based on age and CAG-repeat length alongside reliable neuroimaging markers of atrophy. Spinal muscular atrophy clinical trials have highlighted the transformational value of early therapeutic intervention, and studies in frontotemporal dementia illustrate the differential role of biomarkers based on genotype. Similar advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis would transform our understanding of key events in pathogenesis, thereby dramatically accelerating progress towards disease prevention. Deciphering the biology of pre-symptomatic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis relies on a clear conceptual framework for defining the earliest stages of disease. Clinically manifest amyotrophic lateral sclerosis may emerge abruptly, especially among those who harbour genetic mutations associated with rapidly progressive amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, the disease may also evolve more gradually, revealing a prodromal period of mild motor impairment preceding phenoconversion to clinically manifest disease. Similarly, cognitive and behavioural impairment, when present, may emerge gradually, evolving through a prodromal period of mild cognitive impairment or mild behavioural impairment before progression to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Biomarkers are critically important to studying pre-symptomatic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and essential to efforts to intervene therapeutically before clinically manifest disease emerges. The use of non-genetic biomarkers, however, presents challenges related to counselling, informed consent, communication of results and limited protections afforded by existing legislation. Experiences from pre-symptomatic genetic testing and counselling, and the legal protections against discrimination based on genetic data, may serve as a guide. Building on what we have learned-more broadly from other pre-symptomatic neurodegenerative diseases and specifically from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis gene mutation carriers-we present a road map to early intervention, and perhaps even disease prevention, for all forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Benatar
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Joanne Wuu
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Caroline McHutchison
- Human Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ronald B Postuma
- Department of Neurology, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | | | - Christopher A Ross
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Howard Rosen
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jalayne J Arias
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Michael P McDermott
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy Shefner
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Sharon Abrahams
- Human Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Sweden
| | - Richard S Finkel
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Center for Experimental Neurotherapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Volkan Granit
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Jonathan D Rohrer
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Dementia Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Corey T McMillan
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Murray Grossman
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, King's College London, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Martin R Turner
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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15
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Heckler I, Venkataraman I. Phosphorylated Neurofilament Heavy Chain: A Potential Diagnostic Biomarker in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. J Neurophysiol 2022; 127:737-745. [PMID: 35138963 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00398.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroaxonal damage is a feature of various neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (pNfH) is a cytoskeletal structural protein released as a result of axonal damage into the CSF, and subsequently into the blood. Due to high specificity for neuronal cell damage, pNfH is advantageous over other biomarkers, for ALS disease identification. Here, we review the structure and function of neurofilaments and their role in detection of various neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, a retrospective meta-analysis was performed to depict the significance of pNfH as a valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilana Heckler
- Euroimmun Medizinische Labordiagnostika (EUROIMMUN US), Mountain Lakes, NJ, United States
| | - Iswariya Venkataraman
- Euroimmun Medizinische Labordiagnostika (EUROIMMUN US), Mountain Lakes, NJ, United States
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16
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Manganelli F, Fabrizi GM, Luigetti M, Mandich P, Mazzeo A, Pareyson D. Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis overview. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:595-604. [PMID: 33188616 PMCID: PMC9780126 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-04889-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary amyloidogenic transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis is a rare autosomal dominantly inherited disorder caused by mutations in the transthyretin (TTR) gene. The pathogenetic model of ATTRv amyloidosis indicates that amyloidogenic, usually missense, mutations destabilize the native TTR favouring the dissociation of the tetramer into partially unfolded species that self-assemble into amyloid fibrils. Amyloid deposits and monomer-oligomer toxicity are the basis of multisystemic ATTRv clinical involvement. Peripheral nervous system (autonomic and somatic) and heart are the most affected sites. In the last decades, a better knowledge of pathomechanisms underlying the disease led to develop novel and promising drugs that are rapidly changing the natural history of ATTRv amyloidosis. Thus, clinicians face the challenge of timely diagnosis for addressing patients to appropriate treatment. As well, the progressive nature of ATTRv raises the issue of presymptomatic testing and risk management of carriers. The main aim of this review was to focus on what we know about ATTRv so far, from pathogenesis to clinical manifestations, diagnosis and hence patient's monitoring and treatment, and from presymptomatic testing to management of carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiore Manganelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Fabrizi
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Luigetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli. UOC Neurologia, Rome, Italy ,Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Mandich
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy ,IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Mazzeo
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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17
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Narayanaswami P, Živković S. Molecular and Genetic Therapies. Neuromuscul Disord 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-71317-7.00011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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18
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Crook A, Jacobs C, Newton-John T, Richardson E, McEwen A. Patient and Relative Experiences and Decision-making About Genetic Testing and Counseling for Familial ALS and FTD: A Systematic Scoping Review. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2021; 35:374-385. [PMID: 34054018 DOI: 10.1097/wad.0000000000000458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing and counseling is an emerging part of care for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and their families. This scoping review aimed to map patients' and relatives' experiences of genetic testing and counseling for familial ALS and FTD and the factors influencing their decision to proceed with testing or counseling. Informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, 5 databases were systematically searched. Thirty studies from 39 references were included. A descriptive numerical summary analysis and narrative synthesis was conducted. Mostly positive diagnostic testing experiences were reported, but issues arose due to progressive disease and discordant results. Predictive testing impacted at-risk relatives, regardless of the result received, and psychosocial sequelae ranged from relief to guilt, worry or contemplating suicide. Four reproductive testing experiences were reported. Personal, familial and practical factors, and the lived experience of disease, informed decision-making. Greater uncertainty and complexity may be faced in familial ALS/FTD than in other late-onset neurodegenerative diseases due to clinical and genetic heterogeneity, and testing limitations. Genetic counseling models of care should consider this difference to ensure that individuals with, or at risk of, ALS/FTD are effectively managed. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Crook
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Chippendale
- Department of Biomedical Science, Centre for MND Research
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chris Jacobs
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Chippendale
| | - Toby Newton-John
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Chippendale
| | - Ebony Richardson
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Chippendale
| | - Alison McEwen
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Chippendale
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19
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Salmon K, Anoja N, Breiner A, Chum M, Dionne A, Dupré N, Fiander A, Fok D, Ghavanini A, Gosselin S, Izenberg A, Johnston W, Kalra S, Matte G, Melanson M, O'Connell C, Ritsma B, Schellenberg K, Shoesmith C, Tremblay S, Williams H, Genge A. Genetic testing for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Canada - an assessment of current practices. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2021; 23:305-312. [PMID: 34569363 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2021.1980890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To understand current genetic testing practices at Canadian ALS clinics. Methods: An online survey and phone interviews, with clinicians practicing in 27 ALS clinics in Canada, were employed to collect data. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted. Results: Ninety-three percent (25/27) of ALS clinics in Canada are routinely ordering genetic testing for familial ALS, while 33% (9/27) of clinics are routinely ordering genetic testing for sporadic ALS. Barriers to genetic testing include a perceived lack of an impact on treatment plan, difficulty in obtaining approvals, primarily from provincial Ministries of Health, and limited access to genetic counseling. Predictive testing practices were found to be the most variable across the country. The average wait time for a symptomatic patient living with ALS to see a genetic counselor in Canada is 10 months (range 0-36 months). Conclusions: Access to genetic testing, and testing practices, vary greatly across Canadian ALS clinics. There may be patients with a monogenetic etiology to their ALS who are not being identified given that genetic testing for patients diagnosed with ALS is not routinely performed at all clinics. This study highlights potential inequities for patients with ALS that can arise from variability in health care delivery across jurisdictions, in a federally-funded, but provincially-regulated, health care system. Clinical trials for both symptomatic ALS patients and pre-symptomatic ALS gene carriers are ongoing, and ALS clinicians in Canada are motivated to improve access to genetic testing for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristiana Salmon
- Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nancy Anoja
- Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Marvin Chum
- St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton - McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Annie Dionne
- Neuroscience Axis, CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Nicolas Dupré
- Neuroscience Axis, CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | | | - Daniel Fok
- University of British Columbia - Southern Medical Program, Kelowna, Canada
| | | | - Sylvie Gosselin
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Geneviève Matte
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | | | - Benjamin Ritsma
- Providence Care Hospital - Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Angela Genge
- Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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20
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Genetic counseling and testing practices for late-onset neurodegenerative disease: a systematic review. J Neurol 2021; 269:676-692. [PMID: 33649871 PMCID: PMC7920548 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10461-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective To understand contemporary genetic counseling and testing practices for late-onset neurodegenerative diseases (LONDs), and identify whether practices address the internationally accepted goals of genetic counseling: interpretation, counseling, education, and support. Methods Four databases were systematically searched for articles published from 2009 to 2020. Peer-reviewed research articles in English that reported research and clinical genetic counseling and testing practices for LONDs were included. A narrative synthesis was conducted to describe different practices and map genetic counseling activities to the goals. Risk of bias was assessed using the Qualsyst tool. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019121421). Results Sixty-one studies from 68 papers were included. Most papers focused on predictive testing (58/68) and Huntington’s disease (41/68). There was variation between papers in study design, study population, outcomes, interventions, and settings. Although there were commonalities, novel and inconsistent genetic counseling practices were identified. Eighteen papers addressed all four goals of genetic counseling. Conclusion Contemporary genetic counseling and testing practices for LONDs are varied and informed by regional differences and the presence of different health providers. A flexible, multidisciplinary, client- and family-centered care continues to emerge. As genetic testing becomes a routine part of care for patients (and their relatives), health providers must balance their limited time and resources with ensuring clients are safely and effectively counseled, and all four genetic counseling goals are addressed. Areas of further research include diagnostic and reproductive genetic counseling/testing practices, evaluations of novel approaches to care, and the role and use of different health providers in practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00415-021-10461-5.
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21
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Li Hi Shing S, McKenna MC, Siah WF, Chipika RH, Hardiman O, Bede P. The imaging signature of C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansions: implications for clinical trials and therapy development. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 15:2693-2719. [PMID: 33398779 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-020-00429-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
While C9orf72-specific imaging signatures have been proposed by both ALS and FTD research groups and considerable presymptomatic alterations have also been confirmed in young mutation carriers, considerable inconsistencies exist in the literature. Accordingly, a systematic review of C9orf72-imaging studies has been performed to identify consensus findings, stereotyped shortcomings, and unique contributions to outline future directions. A formal literature review was conducted according to the STROBE guidelines. All identified papers were individually reviewed for sample size, choice of controls, study design, imaging modalities, statistical models, clinical profiling, and identified genotype-associated pathological patterns. A total of 74 imaging papers were systematically reviewed. ALS patients with GGGGCC repeat expansions exhibit relatively limited motor cortex involvement and widespread extra-motor pathology. C9orf72 positive FTD patients often show preferential posterior involvement. Reports of thalamic involvement are relatively consistent across the various phenotypes. Asymptomatic hexanucleotide repeat carriers often exhibit structural and functional changes decades prior to symptom onset. Common shortcomings included sample size limitations, lack of disease-controls, limited clinical profiling, lack of genetic testing in healthy controls, and absence of post mortem validation. There is a striking paucity of longitudinal studies and existing presymptomatic studies have not evaluated the predictive value of radiological changes with regard to age of onset and phenoconversion. With the advent of antisense oligonucleotide therapies, the meticulous characterisation of C9orf72-associated changes has gained practical relevance. Neuroimaging offers non-invasive biomarkers for future clinical trials, presymptomatic ascertainment, diagnostic and prognostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Li Hi Shing
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Clare McKenna
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - We Fong Siah
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rangariroyashe H Chipika
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter Bede
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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22
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Amador MDM, Gargiulo M, Boucher C, Herson A, Staraci S, Salachas F, Clot F, Cazeneuve C, Le Ber I, Durr A. Who and Why? Requests for Presymptomatic Genetic Testing for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Frontotemporal Dementia vs Huntington Disease. NEUROLOGY-GENETICS 2020; 7:e538. [PMID: 33376800 PMCID: PMC7768924 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective We aimed to describe the population of subjects seeking presymptomatic counseling for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and/or frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD) and compared them with those demanding the well-established presymptomatic test for Huntington disease (HD). Methods We retrospectively examined the requests of a cohort of individuals at risk of familial ALS/FTD and 1 at risk of HD over the same time frame of 11 years. The individuals were seen in the referral center of our neurogenetics unit. Results Of the 106 presymptomatic testing (PT) requests from subjects at risk of ALS/FTD, 65% were seen in the last 3 years. Over two-thirds of the subjects were at risk of carrying mutations responsible for ALS, FTD, or both. Sixty-two percent of the subjects came from families with a known hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9ORF72. During the same period, we counseled 840 subjects at risk of HD. Subjects at risk of ALS/FTD had the presymptomatic test significantly sooner after being aware of their risk, but were older than those at risk of HD. The youngest subjects requesting the test had the highest disease load in the family (p < 0.05). Conclusions Demands for PT for ALS/FTD have been increasingly growing, particularly since the discovery of the C9ORF72 gene. The major specificity of the genetic counseling for these diseases is the unpredictability of the clinical phenotype for most of the genes involved. Awareness of this added uncertainty does not prevent individuals from taking the test, as the dropout rate is not higher than that for HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Del Mar Amador
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Marcela Gargiulo
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Christilla Boucher
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Ariane Herson
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Staraci
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - François Salachas
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Clot
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Cazeneuve
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Le Ber
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Durr
- Maria del Mar Amador, Département de Neurologie (M.d.M.A., F.S.), Centre de Référence SLA de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Département de Génétique (M.d.M.A., M.G., C.B., A.H., S.S., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Laboratory of Clinical Psychology (M.G.), Psychopathology and Psychoanalysis PCPP, EA 4056, University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris City, Psychology Institute, Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Département de Génétique (F.C., C.C.), UF de Neurogénétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière; Centre de Référence des Démences Rares ou Précoces (I.L.B.), IM2A, Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; and Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) (I.L.B., A.D.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Sorbonne Université Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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23
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Grandis M, Obici L, Luigetti M, Briani C, Benedicenti F, Bisogni G, Canepa M, Cappelli F, Danesino C, Fabrizi GM, Fenu S, Ferrandes G, Gemelli C, Manganelli F, Mazzeo A, Melchiorri L, Perfetto F, Pradotto LG, Rimessi P, Tini G, Tozza S, Trevisan L, Pareyson D, Mandich P. Recommendations for pre-symptomatic genetic testing for hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis in the era of effective therapy: a multicenter Italian consensus. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2020; 15:348. [PMID: 33317601 PMCID: PMC7734774 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-020-01633-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv, v for variant) is a late-onset, autosomal dominant disease caused by progressive extracellular deposition of transthyretin amyloid fibrils, leading to organ damage and death. For other late-onset fatal diseases, as Huntington’s disease, protocols for pre-symptomatic genetic testing (PST) are available since decades. For ATTRv, limited experience has been reported to date, mostly gathered before the availability of approved therapies. We aimed at developing recommendations for a safe and feasible PST protocol in ATTRv in the era of emerging treatments, taking also into account Italian patients’ characteristics and healthcare system rules. After an initial survey on ongoing approaches to PST for ATTRv in Italy, two roundtable meetings were attended by 24 experts from 16 Italian centers involved in the diagnosis and care of this disease. Minimal requirements for PST offer and potential critical issues were highlighted. By November 2019, 457 families affected by ATTRv with 209 molecularly confirmed pre-symptomatic carriers were counted. The median age at PST was 41.3 years of age, regardless of the specific mutation. Half of the Italian centers had a multidisciplinary team, including a neurologist, an internist, a cardiologist, a medical geneticist and a psychologist, although in most cases not all the specialists were available in the same center. A variable number of visits was performed at each site. Experts agreed that PST should be offered only in the context of genetic counselling to at risk individuals aged 18 or older. Advertised commercial options for DNA testing should be avoided. The protocol should consist of several steps, including a preliminary clinical examination, a pre-test information session, an interval time, the genetic test and a post-test session with the disclosure of the test results, in the context of an experienced multidisciplinary team. Recommendations for best timing were also defined. Protocols for PST in the context of ATTRv can be refined to offer at risk individuals the best chance for early diagnosis and timely treatment start, while respecting autonomous decisions and promoting safe psychological adjustment to the genetic result.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Grandis
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genoa, c/o DIMI Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - L Obici
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Luigetti
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - C Briani
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - F Benedicenti
- Medical Genetics, Azienda Sanitaria Dell'Alto Adige, Bolzano, Italy
| | - G Bisogni
- Centro Clinico Nemo Adulti-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - M Canepa
- Cardiovascular Disease Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, and IRCCS Italian Cardiovascular Network, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - F Cappelli
- Tuscan Regional Amyloidosis Center, Careggi University Hospital, Firenze, Italy
| | - C Danesino
- Molecular Medicine Department, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - G M Fabrizi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Verona and University Hospital GB Rossi, Verona, Italy
| | - S Fenu
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - G Ferrandes
- IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - C Gemelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genoa, c/o DIMI Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132, Genova, Italy.,Neuromuscular Omnicentre (NEMO)-Fondazione Serena Onlus, Arenzano, GE, Italy
| | - F Manganelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - A Mazzeo
- Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - L Melchiorri
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - F Perfetto
- Tuscan Regional Amyloidosis Center, Careggi University Hospital, Firenze, Italy
| | - L G Pradotto
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy.,Division of Neurology and Neurorehabilitazion, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piancavallo, VB, Italy
| | - P Rimessi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - G Tini
- Cardiovascular Disease Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, and IRCCS Italian Cardiovascular Network, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - S Tozza
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - L Trevisan
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genoa, c/o DIMI Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - D Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - P Mandich
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Medical Genetics, University of Genoa, c/o DIMI Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16132, Genova, Italy. .,IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
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24
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Mega A, Galluzzi S, Bonvicini C, Fostinelli S, Gennarelli M, Geroldi C, Zanetti O, Benussi L, Di Maria E, Frisoni GB. Genetic counselling and testing for inherited dementia: single-centre evaluation of the consensus Italian DIAfN protocol. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2020; 12:152. [PMID: 33203472 PMCID: PMC7670800 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-020-00720-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background A consensus protocol for genetic counselling and testing of familial dementia, the Italian Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s and Frontotemporal Network (IT-DIAfN) protocol, has been developed in Italy by a network of expert dementia centres. The aim of this study is to evaluate feasibility and acceptability of the genetic counselling and testing process, as undertaken according to the IT-DIAfN protocol in one of the IT-DIAfN dementia research centres. Methods The protocol was tested by a multidisciplinary team at the IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy, on affected individuals with suspected inherited forms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and to healthy at-risk relatives. The genetic counselling and testing process consisted of (i) pre-test consultation and psychological assessment (ii) genetic testing, (iii) genetic test result disclosure and (iv) follow-up consultation and psychological assessment. Results Twenty affected individuals from 17 families fulfilled the family history criteria of the IT-DIAfN protocol for suspected inherited dementia (17 for AD, 2 for FTD, 1 for inclusion body myopathy with Paget disease of bone and frontotemporal dementia) and were included in the protocol. Nineteen out of 20 affected individuals received the genetic test result (one left after the pre-test consultation being not ready to cope with an unfavourable outcome). A pathogenic mutation was found in 6 affected individuals (1 in PSEN1, 2 in PSEN2, 1 in GRN, 1 in MAPT, 1 in VCP). Eleven healthy at-risk relatives asked to undergo predictive testing and were included in the protocol. Three completed the protocol, including follow-up; one did not ask for the genetic test result after genetic testing; and eight withdrew before the genetic testing, mainly due to an increased awareness about the possible consequences of an unfavourable test result. To date, no catastrophic reactions were reported at the follow-up. Conclusions Our case series shows that a structured genetic counselling and testing protocol for inherited dementia can be implemented in both affected individuals and at-risk relatives in a research setting. The procedure was shown to be safe in terms of occurrence of catastrophic events. A formal validation in larger cohorts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mega
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging & Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Samantha Galluzzi
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging & Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristian Bonvicini
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Fostinelli
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Massimo Gennarelli
- Genetics Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristina Geroldi
- Alzheimer's Unit - Memory Clinic, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Orazio Zanetti
- Alzheimer's Unit - Memory Clinic, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luisa Benussi
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Emilio Di Maria
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy. .,Unit of Medical Genetics, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Giovanni B Frisoni
- Laboratory Alzheimer's Neuroimaging & Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.,University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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25
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Rickman OJ, Baple EL, Crosby AH. Lipid metabolic pathways converge in motor neuron degenerative diseases. Brain 2020; 143:1073-1087. [PMID: 31848577 PMCID: PMC7174042 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) encompass an extensive and heterogeneous group of upper and/or lower motor neuron degenerative disorders, in which the particular clinical outcomes stem from the specific neuronal component involved in each condition. While mutations in a large number of molecules associated with lipid metabolism are known to be implicated in MNDs, there remains a lack of clarity regarding the key functional pathways involved, and their inter-relationships. This review highlights evidence that defines defects within two specific lipid (cholesterol/oxysterol and phosphatidylethanolamine) biosynthetic cascades as being centrally involved in MND, particularly hereditary spastic paraplegia. We also identify how other MND-associated molecules may impact these cascades, in particular through impaired organellar interfacing, to propose ‘subcellular lipidome imbalance’ as a likely common pathomolecular theme in MND. Further exploration of this mechanism has the potential to identify new therapeutic targets and management strategies for modulation of disease progression in hereditary spastic paraplegias and other MNDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia J Rickman
- Medical Research (Level 4), RILD Wellcome Wolfson Centre, University of Exeter Medical School, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Emma L Baple
- Medical Research (Level 4), RILD Wellcome Wolfson Centre, University of Exeter Medical School, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Andrew H Crosby
- Medical Research (Level 4), RILD Wellcome Wolfson Centre, University of Exeter Medical School, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
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26
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Goldman JS. Predictive Genetic Counseling for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Past, Present, and Future. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:cshperspect.a036525. [PMID: 31548223 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Predictive genetic counseling for neurodegenerative diseases commenced with Huntington's disease (HD). Because the psychological issues and outcomes have been best studied in HD, the HD genetic counseling and testing protocol is still accepted as the gold standard for genetic counseling for these diseases. Yet, advances in genomic technology have produced an abundance of new information about the genetics of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. The resulting expansion of genetic tests together with the availability of direct-to-consumer testing and clinical trials for treatment of these diseases present new ethical and practical issues requiring modifications to the protocol for HD counseling and new demands on both physicians and genetic counselors. This work reviews the history of genetic counseling for neurodegenerative diseases, its current practice, and the future direction of genetic counseling for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill S Goldman
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Medicine, New York, New York 10032, USA
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27
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Pecoraro V, Mandrioli J, Carone C, Chiò A, Traynor BJ, Trenti T. The NGS technology for the identification of genes associated with the ALS. A systematic review. Eur J Clin Invest 2020; 50:e13228. [PMID: 32293029 PMCID: PMC9008463 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 30 causative genes have been identified in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a powerful and groundbreaking tool to identify disease-associated variants. Despite documented advantages of NGS, its diagnostic reliability needs to be addressed in order to use this technology for specific routine diagnosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Literature database was explored to identify studies comparing NGS and Sanger sequencing for the detection of variants causing ALS. We collected data about patients' characteristics, disease type and duration, NGS and Sanger properties. RESULTS More than 200 bibliographic references were identified, of which only 14 studies matching our inclusion criteria. Only 2 out of 14 studies compared results of NGS analysis with the Sanger sequencing. Twelve studies screened causative genes associated to ALS using NGS technologies and confirmed the identified variants with Sanger sequencing. Overall, data about more 2,000 patients were analysed. The number of genes that were investigated in each study ranged from 1 to 32, the most frequent being FUS, OPTN, SETX and VCP. NGS identified already known mutations in 21 genes, and new or rare variants in 27 genes. CONCLUSIONS NGS seems to be a promising tool for the diagnosis of ALS in routine clinical practice. Its advantages are represented by an increased speed and a lowest sequencing cost, but patients' counselling could be problematic due to the discovery of frequent variants of unknown significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pecoraro
- Laboratory of Toxycology and Advanced Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Ospedale Civile S. Agostino Estense, Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Neuroscience, Ospedale Civile S. Agostino Estense, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Carone
- Laboratory of Toxycology and Advanced Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Ospedale Civile S. Agostino Estense, Modena, Italy
| | - Adriano Chiò
- Department of Neuroscience, ALS Center "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,The Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy.,The Neuroscience Institute of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Laboratory of Toxycology and Advanced Diagnostics, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Ospedale Civile S. Agostino Estense, Modena, Italy
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28
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Kassubek J, Müller HP. Advanced neuroimaging approaches in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: refining the clinical diagnosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:237-249. [PMID: 31937156 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1715798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: In the last decade, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has achieved tremendous advances in applications to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to increase the understanding of the associated pathophysiology. The aim of this review is to summarize recent progress in the development of MRI-based techniques aiming to support the clinical diagnosis in ALS.Areas covered: The review of structural and functional MRI applications to ALS and its variants (restricted phenotypes) is focused on the potential of MRI techniques which contribute to the diagnostic work-up of patients with the clinical presentation of a motor neuron disease. The potential of specific MRI methods for patient diagnosis and monitoring is discussed, and the future design of clinical MRI applications to ALS is conceptualized.Expert opinion: Current multiparametric MRI allows for the use as a clinical biological marker and a technical instrument in the clinical diagnosis of patients with ALS and also of patients with ALS variants. Composite neuroimaging indices of specific anatomical areas derived from different MRI techniques might guide in the diagnostic applications to ALS. Such a development of ALS-specific MRI-based composite scores with sufficient discriminative power versus ALS mimics at an individual level requires standardized advanced protocols and comprehensive analysis approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Kassubek
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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29
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Corcia P, Lumbroso S, Cazeneuve C, Mouzat K, Camu W, Vourc'h P. Pre-symptomatic diagnosis in ALS. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:166-169. [PMID: 31932031 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains partially understood even though it is accepted worldwide that motor neuron death results from a pluri-factorial process with a variable role of genetic factors. Although not distinguishable from a clinical point of view, familial forms of ALS (fALS, 10% of cases) and sporadic forms (sALS, 90% of cases) can be described. Since the identification of superoxide dismutase 1 gene (SOD1) mutations, more than 30 genes have been linked to fALS. Among these genes, five (C9ORF72, SOD1, TARDBP, FUS, TBK1) seem predominant with mutation frequencies of 40%, 20%, 5%, <5%, <5% in fALS and 6%, 3%, and <1% for the last three in sALS, respectively. The situation that classically leads to request genetic screening is the presence of a familial history of motor neuron disorders (MND) or fronto-temporal lobar dementia (FTLD). However, this dichotomy between fALS and sALS based on familial history can lead to mistakes since illegitimacy, ignorance of MND, FTD or psychiatric disorders within the family due to a familial censorship or lack of familial relationship, or a recessive autosomal inheritance could wrongly lead to failing to recognize a familial form. The significant development of genetic research and easier access to genetic tests in fALS increase the number of situations for which gene mutations are identified. The consequence is an increase in genetic requests from relatives of ALS patients who are eager to know their own genetic status and their own individual risk to develop ALS. Pre-symptomatic testing is thus becoming a daily issue in ALS Centers. This led us to propose a framework for such pre-symptomatic genetic testing for people at risk for developing ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Corcia
- Centre Constitutif SLA, CHU Bretonneau, Tours, France; UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France.
| | - S Lumbroso
- Motoneuron Disease: Pathophysiology and Therapy, INM, University Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - C Cazeneuve
- Unité Fonctionnelle de Neurogénétique Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - K Mouzat
- Motoneuron Disease: Pathophysiology and Therapy, INM, University Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - W Camu
- Centre Consitutif SLA, Hopital Guy de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - P Vourc'h
- Motoneuron Disease: Pathophysiology and Therapy, INM, University Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France; Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHRU Tours, France
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30
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Bradbury AR, Patrick-Miller LJ, Egleston BL, Hall MJ, Domchek SM, Daly MB, Ganschow P, Grana G, Olopade OI, Fetzer D, Brandt A, Chambers R, Clark DF, Forman A, Gaber R, Gulden C, Horte J, Long JM, Lucas T, Madaan S, Mattie K, McKenna D, Montgomery S, Nielsen S, Powers J, Rainey K, Rybak C, Savage M, Seelaus C, Stoll J, Stopfer JE, Yao XS. Randomized Noninferiority Trial of Telephone vs In-Person Disclosure of Germline Cancer Genetic Test Results. J Natl Cancer Inst 2019; 110:985-993. [PMID: 29490071 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djy015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Germline genetic testing is standard practice in oncology. Outcomes of telephone disclosure of a wide range of cancer genetic test results, including multigene panel testing (MGPT) are unknown. Methods Patients undergoing cancer genetic testing were recruited to a multicenter, randomized, noninferiority trial (NCT01736345) comparing telephone disclosure (TD) of genetic test results with usual care, in-person disclosure (IPD) after tiered-binned in-person pretest counseling. Primary noninferiority outcomes included change in knowledge, state anxiety, and general anxiety. Secondary outcomes included cancer-specific distress, depression, uncertainty, satisfaction, and screening and risk-reducing surgery intentions. To declare noninferiority, we calculated the 98.3% one-sided confidence interval of the standardized effect; t tests were used for secondary subgroup analyses. Only noninferiority tests were one-sided, others were two-sided. Results A total of 1178 patients enrolled in the study. Two hundred eight (17.7%) participants declined random assignment due to a preference for in-person disclosure; 473 participants were randomly assigned to TD and 497 to IPD; 291 (30.0%) had MGPT. TD was noninferior to IPD for general and state anxiety and all secondary outcomes immediately postdisclosure. TD did not meet the noninferiority threshold for knowledge in the primary analysis, but it did meet the threshold in the multiple imputation analysis. In secondary analyses, there were no statistically significant differences between arms in screening and risk-reducing surgery intentions, and no statistically significant differences in outcomes by arm among those who had MGPT. In subgroup analyses, patients with a positive result had statistically significantly greater decreases in general anxiety with telephone disclosure (TD -0.37 vs IPD +0.87, P = .02). Conclusions Even in the era of multigene panel testing, these data suggest that telephone disclosure of cancer genetic test results is as an alternative to in-person disclosure for interested patients after in-person pretest counseling with a genetic counselor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Bradbury
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Linda J Patrick-Miller
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Brian L Egleston
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Michael J Hall
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Susan M Domchek
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mary B Daly
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Pamela Ganschow
- Department of Internal Medicine, The John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL
| | - Generosa Grana
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ
| | - Olufunmilayo I Olopade
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Dominique Fetzer
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Amanda Brandt
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Rachelle Chambers
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Dana F Clark
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ
| | - Andrea Forman
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Rikki Gaber
- Department of Internal Medicine, The John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL
| | - Cassandra Gulden
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Janice Horte
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ
| | - Jessica M Long
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Terra Lucas
- Department of Internal Medicine, The John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL
| | - Shreshtha Madaan
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Kristin Mattie
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ
| | - Danielle McKenna
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Susan Montgomery
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sarah Nielsen
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jacquelyn Powers
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kim Rainey
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Christina Rybak
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Michelle Savage
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility and Department of Medical Genetics, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Christina Seelaus
- Department of Internal Medicine, The John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL
| | - Jessica Stoll
- Division of Hematology-Oncology and Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, and Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jill E Stopfer
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Xinxin Shirley Yao
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Camden, NJ
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31
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Arthur KC, Doyle C, Chiò A, Traynor BJ. Use of Genetic Testing in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis by Neurologists. JAMA Neurol 2019; 74:125-126. [PMID: 27893008 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2016.4540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karissa C Arthur
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Carly Doyle
- The Northeast ALS Consortium, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Adriano Chiò
- 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Khairoalsindi OA, Abuzinadah AR. Maximizing the Survival of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients: Current Perspectives. Neurol Res Int 2018; 2018:6534150. [PMID: 30159171 PMCID: PMC6109498 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6534150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to loss of the upper and lower motor neurons. Almost 90% of all cases occur in the sporadic form, with the rest occurring in the familial form. The disease has a poor prognosis, with only two disease-modifying drugs approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The approved drugs for the disease have very limited survival benefits. Edaravone is a new FDA-approved medication that may slow the disease progression by 33% in a selected subgroup of ALS patients. This paper covers the various interventions that may provide survival benefits, such as early diagnosis, medications, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, diet, nutritional supplements, multidisciplinary clinics, and mechanical invasive and noninvasive ventilation. The recent data on masitinib, the role of enteral feeding, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad R. Abuzinadah
- King Abdulaziz University, Internal Medicine Department, Neurology Division, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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33
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Benatar M, Wuu J, Andersen PM, Lombardi V, Malaspina A. Neurofilament light: A candidate biomarker of presymptomatic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and phenoconversion. Ann Neurol 2018; 84:130-139. [PMID: 30014505 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate neurofilament light (NfL) as a biomarker of the presymptomatic phase of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS The study population includes 84 individuals at risk for developing ALS, 34 controls, 17 ALS patients, and 10 phenoconverters (at-risk individuals observed both before and after the emergence of clinically manifest disease). At-risk individuals are enrolled through Pre-Symptomatic Familial ALS (Pre-fALS), a longitudinal natural history and biomarker study of individuals who are carriers of any ALS-associated gene mutation (in SOD1, C9orf72, TARDBP, FUS, VCP, etc), but who, at the time of enrollment, demonstrated no clinical symptoms or signs (including electromyographic evidence) of manifest disease. NfL in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were quantified using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. RESULTS Serum and CSF NfL are substantially higher in ALS patients compared to controls and at-risk individuals and remain relatively stable over time. Among phenoconverters, however, NfL levels were elevated (ie, above the range observed in controls) as far back as ∼12 months preceding the emergence of the earliest clinical symptoms or signs of disease. INTERPRETATION Serum (and CSF) NfL are informative biomarkers of presymptomatic ALS, providing a new tool to quantify presymptomatic disease progression and to potentially predict the timing of clinical phenoconversion. As such, quantification of NfL may aid the design and implementation of early therapeutic intervention for affected individuals and/or disease prevention trials for individuals at short-term risk of developing ALS. Ann Neurol 2018 Ann Neurol 2018;83:130-139.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanne Wuu
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Vittoria Lombardi
- Neuroscience Center, Blizard, Institute of Cell and Molecular Medicine, Barts & the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Malaspina
- Neuroscience Center, Blizard, Institute of Cell and Molecular Medicine, Barts & the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
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Corcia P, Vourc’h P, Blasco H, Couratier P, Dangoumau A, Bellance R, Desnuelle C, Viader F, Pautot V, Millecamps S, Bakkouche S, Salachas F, Andres CR, Meininger V, Camu W. Phenotypic and genotypic studies of ALS cases in ALS-SMA families. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2018; 19:432-437. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2018.1440406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Corcia
- Centre SLA, CHU Tours, Tours, France,
- Department of Neurology, UMR INSERM U930, Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France,
| | - Patrick Vourc’h
- Department of Neurology, UMR INSERM U930, Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France,
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Tours, Tours, France,
| | - Helene Blasco
- Department of Neurology, UMR INSERM U930, Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France,
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Tours, Tours, France,
| | | | - Audrey Dangoumau
- Department of Neurology, UMR INSERM U930, Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France,
| | - Remi Bellance
- Service de Neurologie, CHU Fort de France, Martinique, France,
| | | | - Fausto Viader
- Centre SLA, Service de Neurologie, CHU Caen, Caen, France,
| | - Vivien Pautot
- Centre SLA, Service de Neurologie, CHU Angers, Angers, France,
| | - Stephanie Millecamps
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Epinière, INSERM UMR S975, CNRS UMR7225, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6, Paris, France,
| | | | - FranÇois Salachas
- Fédération des Maladies du Système Nerveux, Centre Référent Maladie Rare SLA, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France, and
| | - Christian R. Andres
- Department of Neurology, UMR INSERM U930, Université François-Rabelais, Tours, France,
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Tours, Tours, France,
| | - Vincent Meininger
- Fédération des Maladies du Système Nerveux, Centre Référent Maladie Rare SLA, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France, and
| | - William Camu
- Clinique du Motoneurone, Explorations neurologiques, CHU Gui de Chauliac, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Goutman SA, Chen KS, Paez-Colasante X, Feldman EL. Emerging understanding of the genotype-phenotype relationship in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 148:603-623. [PMID: 29478603 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64076-5.00039-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, noncurable neurodegenerative disorder of the upper and lower motor neurons causing weakness and death within a few years of symptom onset. About 10% of patients with ALS have a family history of the disease; however, ALS-associated genetic mutations are also found in sporadic cases. There are over 100 ALS-associated mutations, and importantly, several genetic mutations, including C9ORF72, SOD1, and TARDBP, have led to mechanistic insight into this complex disease. In the clinical realm, knowledge of ALS genetics can also help explain phenotypic heterogeneity, aid in genetic counseling, and in the future may help direct treatment efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | - Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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36
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Hogden A, Crook A. Patient-centered decision making in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: where are we? Neurodegener Dis Manag 2017; 7:377-386. [DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2017-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Developments in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis research and care delivery have created new arenas, and new dilemmas, for patients’ decision making. This review explores three aspects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient-centered care and decision making: patient-centered service delivery through the expanding multidisciplinary team; decision making for genetic testing and the implications of undergoing testing; and development of user-designed decision support tools to help patients and families make decisions as their choices become more complex. Until a cure is found, well-timed and effective decision making will rely on patient and family preferences to guide them through an increasingly complicated disease landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Hogden
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ashley Crook
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hardiman O, Al-Chalabi A, Chio A, Corr EM, Logroscino G, Robberecht W, Shaw PJ, Simmons Z, van den Berg LH. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2017; 3:17071. [PMID: 28980624 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2017.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 796] [Impact Index Per Article: 113.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease, is characterized by the degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons, which leads to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. Until recently, ALS was classified primarily within the neuromuscular domain, although new imaging and neuropathological data have indicated the involvement of the non-motor neuraxis in disease pathology. In most patients, the mechanisms underlying the development of ALS are poorly understood, although a subset of patients have familial disease and harbour mutations in genes that have various roles in neuronal function. Two possible disease-modifying therapies that can slow disease progression are available for ALS, but patient management is largely mediated by symptomatic therapies, such as the use of muscle relaxants for spasticity and speech therapy for dysarthria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Room 5.41 Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Pearse Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adriano Chio
- Rita Levi Montalcini Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Emma M Corr
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Room 5.41 Trinity Biomedical Science Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Pearse Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | - Wim Robberecht
- KU Leuven-University of Leuven, University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Neurology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Zachary Simmons
- Department of Neurology, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State Health, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leonard H van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Paganoni S, Nicholson K, Leigh F, Swoboda K, Chad D, Drake K, Haley K, Cudkowicz M, Berry JD. Developing multidisciplinary clinics for neuromuscular care and research. Muscle Nerve 2017. [PMID: 28632945 PMCID: PMC5656914 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Multidisciplinary care is considered the standard of care for both adult and pediatric neuromuscular disorders and has been associated with improved quality of life, resource utilization, and health outcomes. Multidisciplinary care is delivered in multidisciplinary clinics that coordinate care across multiple specialties by reducing travel burden and streamlining care. In addition, the multidisciplinary care setting facilitates the integration of clinical research, patient advocacy, and care innovation (e.g., telehealth). Yet, multidisciplinary care requires substantial commitment of staff time and resources. We calculated personnel costs in our ALS clinic in 2015 and found an average cost per patient visit of $580, of which only 45% was covered by insurance reimbursement. In this review, we will describe classic and emerging concepts in multidisciplinary care models for adult and pediatric neuromuscular disease. We will then explore the financial impact of multidisciplinary care with emphasis on sustainability and metrics to demonstrate quality and value. Muscle Nerve 56: 848-858, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Paganoni
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katie Nicholson
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fawn Leigh
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kathryn Swoboda
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Chad
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kristin Drake
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kellen Haley
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Merit Cudkowicz
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James D Berry
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Suicide and assisted dying in dementia: what we know and what we need to know. A narrative literature review. Int Psychogeriatr 2017; 29:1247-1259. [PMID: 28462742 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610217000679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence-based data on prevalence and risk factors of suicidal intentions and behavior in dementia are as scarce as the data on assisted dying. The present literature review aimed on summarizing the current knowledge and provides a critical discussion of the results. METHODS A systematic narrative literature review was performed using Medline, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PSYNDEX, PSYCINFO, Sowiport, and Social Sciences Citation Index literature. RESULTS Dementia as a whole does not appear to be a risk factor for suicide completion. Nonetheless some subgroups of patients with dementia apparently have an increased risk for suicidal behavior, such as patients with psychiatric comorbidities (particularly depression) and of younger age. Furthermore, a recent diagnosis of dementia, semantic dementia, and previous suicide attempts most probably elevate the risk for suicidal intentions and behavior. The impact of other potential risk factors, such as patient's cognitive impairment profile, behavioral disturbances, social isolation, or a biomarker based presymptomatic diagnosis has not yet been investigated. Assisted dying in dementia is rare but numbers seem to increase in regions where it is legally permitted. CONCLUSION Most studies that had investigated the prevalence and risk factors for suicide in dementia had significant methodological limitations. Large prospective studies need to be conducted in order to evaluate risk factors for suicide and assisted suicide in patients with dementia and persons with very early or presymptomatic diagnoses of dementia. In clinical practice, known risk factors for suicide should be assessed in a standardized way so that appropriate action can be taken when necessary.
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Cunha C, Santos C, Gomes C, Fernandes A, Correia AM, Sebastião AM, Vaz AR, Brites D. Downregulated Glia Interplay and Increased miRNA-155 as Promising Markers to Track ALS at an Early Stage. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:4207-4224. [PMID: 28612258 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0631-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease of unknown cause. Absence of specific targets and biomarkers compromise the development of new therapeutic strategies and of innovative tools to stratify patients and assess their responses to treatment. Here, we investigate changes in neuroprotective-neuroinflammatory actions in the spinal cord of SOD1 G93A mice, at presymptomatic and symptomatic stages to identify stage-specific biomarkers and potential targets. Results showed that in the presymptomatic stage, there are alterations in both astrocytes and microglia, which comprise decreased expression of GFAP and S100B and upregulation of GLT-1, as well as reduced expression of CD11b, M2-phenotype markers, and a set of inflammatory mediators. Reduced levels of Connexin-43, Pannexin-1, CCL21, and CX3CL1 further indicate the existence of a compromised intercellular communication. In contrast, in the symptomatic stage, increased markers of inflammation became evident, such as NF-κB/Nlrp3-inflammasome, Iba1, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and M1-polarizion markers, together with a decreased expression of M2-phenotypic markers. We also observed upregulation of the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axis, Connexin-43, Pannexin-1, and of microRNAs (miR)-124, miR-125b, miR-146a and miR-21. Reduced motor neuron number and presence of reactive astrocytes with decreased GFAP, GLT-1, and GLAST further characterized this inflammatory stage. Interestingly, upregulation of miR-155 and downregulation of MFG-E8 appear as consistent biomarkers of both presymptomatic and symptomatic stages. We hypothesize that downregulated cellular interplay at the early stages may represent neuroprotective mechanisms against inflammation, SOD1 aggregation, and ALS onset. The present study identified a set of inflamma-miRNAs, NLRP3-inflammasome, HMGB1, CX3CL1-CX3CR1, Connexin-43, and Pannexin-1 as emerging candidates and promising pharmacological targets that may represent potential neuroprotective strategies in ALS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Cunha
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Santos
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cátia Gomes
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Adelaide Fernandes
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Maria Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Vaz
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dora Brites
- Neuron Glia Biology in Health and Disease Group, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal. .,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Crook A, Williams K, Adams L, Blair I, Rowe DB. Predictive genetic testing for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia: genetic counselling considerations. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2017; 18:475-485. [PMID: 28585888 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2017.1332079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Once a gene mutation that is causal of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and/or frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is identified in a family, relatives may decide to undergo predictive genetic testing to determine whether they are at risk of developing disease. Recent advances in gene discovery have led to a pressing need to better understand the implications of predictive genetic testing. Here we review the uptake of genetic counselling, predictive and reproductive testing, and the factors that impact the decision to undergo testing, for consideration in clinical practice. The literature suggests that the factors impacting the decision to undergo testing are complex due to the nature of these diseases, absence of available preventative medical treatment and variable age of onset in mutation carriers. Gaining further insight into the decision-making process and the impact of testing is critical as we seek to develop best-practice guidelines for predictive testing for familial ALS and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Crook
- a Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia and
| | - Kelly Williams
- b Centre for MND Research , Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Lorel Adams
- a Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia and
| | - Ian Blair
- b Centre for MND Research , Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Dominic B Rowe
- a Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia and
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Pochet R. Genetics and ALS: Cause for Optimism. CEREBRUM : THE DANA FORUM ON BRAIN SCIENCE 2017; 2017:cer-05-17. [PMID: 28698777 PMCID: PMC5501042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
While drug development has done little to slow the devastating symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), there is some good news in the fact that scientists have identified some 100 related genes and believe that genetic research offers the best hope for treatments. More good news came on the heels of the Ice Bucket Challenge, which raised $220 million globally and has fueled renewed optimism and energy in the ALS community.
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Vajda A, McLaughlin RL, Heverin M, Thorpe O, Abrahams S, Al-Chalabi A, Hardiman O. Genetic testing in ALS: A survey of current practices. Neurology 2017; 88:991-999. [PMID: 28159885 PMCID: PMC5333513 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000003686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the degree of consensus among clinicians on the clinical use of genetic testing in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the factors that determine decision-making. METHODS ALS researchers worldwide were invited to participate in a detailed online survey to determine their attitudes and practices relating to genetic testing. RESULTS Responses from 167 clinicians from 21 different countries were analyzed. The majority of respondents (73.3%) do not consider that there is a consensus definition of familial ALS (FALS). Fifty-seven percent consider a family history of frontotemporal dementia and 48.5% the presence of a known ALS genetic mutation as sufficient for a diagnosis of FALS. Most respondents (90.2%) offer genetic testing to patients they define as having FALS and 49.4% to patients with sporadic ALS. Four main genes (SOD1, C9orf72, TARDBP, and FUS) are commonly tested. A total of 55.2% of respondents would seek genetic testing if they had personally received a diagnosis of ALS. Forty-two percent never offer presymptomatic testing to family members of patients with FALS. Responses varied between ALS specialists and nonspecialists and based on the number of new patients seen per year. CONCLUSIONS There is a lack of consensus among clinicians as to the definition of FALS. Substantial variation exists in attitude and practices related to genetic testing of patients and presymptomatic testing of their relatives across geographic regions and between experienced specialists in ALS and nonspecialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Vajda
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK.
| | - Russell L McLaughlin
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Mark Heverin
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Owen Thorpe
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Sharon Abrahams
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
| | - Orla Hardiman
- From the Academic Unit of Neurology (A.V., R.L.M., M.H., O.T., O.H.), Trinity College Dublin; Cognitive Aging and Epidemiology Centre (S.A.), University of Edinburgh; and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (A.A.-C.), King's College London, UK
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Apolloni S, Fabbrizio P, Amadio S, Volonté C. Actions of the antihistaminergic clemastine on presymptomatic SOD1-G93A mice ameliorate ALS disease progression. J Neuroinflammation 2016; 13:191. [PMID: 27549088 PMCID: PMC4994328 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-016-0658-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease with a strong neuroinflammatory component sustained by activated microglia contributing to motoneuron death. However, how to successfully balance neuroprotective versus neurotoxic actions by the use of antinflammatory agents is still under scrutiny. We have recently shown that the antihistamine clemastine, an FDA-approved drug, can influence the M1/M2 switch occurring in SOD1-G93A ALS microglia. METHODS Here, we have chronically treated female SOD1-G93A mice with clemastine, evaluated disease progression and performed mice lumbar spinal cord analysis at symptomatic and end stage of the disease. Moreover, we have studied the mechanism of action of clemastine in primary adult spinal SOD1-G93A microglia cultures and in NSC-G93A motor neuron-like cells. RESULTS We found that a short treatment with clemastine (50 mg/kg) from asymptomatic (postnatal day 40) to symptomatic phase (postnatal day 120) significantly delayed disease onset and extended the survival of SOD1-G93A mice by about 10 %. Under these conditions, clemastine induced protection of motor neurons, modulation of inflammatory parameters, reduction of SOD1 protein levels and SQSTM1/p62 autophagic marker, when analysed immediately at the end of the treatment (postnatal day 120). A long treatment with clemastine (from asymptomatic until the end stage) instead failed to ameliorate ALS disease progression. At the end stage of the disease, we found that clemastine short treatment decreased microgliosis and SOD1 protein and increased LC3-II autophagic marker, while the long treatment produced opposite effects. Finally, in spinal microglia cultures from symptomatic SOD1-G93A mice clemastine activated inflammatory parameters, stimulated autophagic flux via the mTOR signalling pathway and decreased SOD1 levels. Modulation of autophagy was also demonstrated in NSC34 SOD1-G93A motor neuron-like cells. CONCLUSIONS By gaining insights into the ameliorating actions of an antihistaminergic compound in ALS disease, our findings might represent an exploitable therapeutic approach for familial forms of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savina Apolloni
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Susanna Amadio
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Volonté
- Santa Lucia Foundation, IRCCS, Rome, Italy. .,Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 65, 00143, Rome, Italy.
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Genetic testing and genetic counseling for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: an update for clinicians. Genet Med 2016; 19:267-274. [DOI: 10.1038/gim.2016.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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